Can you give notice of marriage online?

Giving notice is a legal declaration, and the law requires you to do it in person or by a signed paper form, depending on where you live. In England and Wales, both partners must appear together at the register office. You cannot do this by video call or through an online portal. The registrar needs to see you in person to confirm your identity and to ask you questions directly.

In Scotland, the process is more flexible. You submit a marriage notice form to the registrar for the district where the wedding will take place. Some registrars may allow you to complete parts of the form online or by post, but you will still need to sign a physical document and provide original documents when asked.

In Northern Ireland, notice is given to the registrar in the district where the wedding will take place, at least 28 days before. Again, this is not an online-only process.

Some register offices allow you to book your appointment online, but the actual giving of notice must happen in person. The rules can change, and local offices may have their own procedures, so always check the GOV.UK website or contact the relevant register office directly for the most up to date guidance.