Can I get a certificate of no impediment online in the UK?

Short answer

No, you cannot get a certificate of no impediment online in the UK. You must apply in person at your local register office, usually where you have lived for at least seven days. This is part of giving notice of marriage.

A certificate of no impediment is issued as part of the legal process of giving notice of marriage. In England and Wales, both partners must attend their local register office in person to give notice. You cannot do this online or by post. The registrar will check your identity and confirm there is no legal reason you cannot marry. You need to have lived in the area for at least seven days before giving notice.

In Scotland, you submit a marriage notice to the registrar for the district where the wedding will take place, at least 29 days before. In Northern Ireland, you give notice to the registrar in the district of the wedding, at least 28 days before. These processes are done in person, not online.

The certificate of no impediment is sometimes needed if you plan to marry abroad. If you need one for a foreign marriage, contact your local register office to arrange an appointment. They will guide you through the process and tell you what documents to bring. Rules can vary, so check with the register office or GOV.UK for the latest guidance.