How do you get married abroad as an Australian?

For Australians marrying abroad, the key is to follow the marriage laws of the country where the ceremony takes place. Those laws vary widely, so start by contacting the embassy or consulate of that country in Australia, and also the local registrar or marriage office in the town where you will marry. Ask for a written list of required documents.

You will typically need your passports, birth certificates, and evidence that you are free to marry, such as a certificate of no impediment or a statutory declaration. Some countries require a minimum stay before the wedding, blood tests, or translated and apostilled documents. Plan for these steps well in advance, as they can take several weeks.

After the ceremony, your marriage is generally recognised in Australia if it was valid under local law. You do not need to register it with an Australian authority, but you should keep the official marriage certificate safe. For any legal use in Australia, you may need to have it translated or authenticated. Check the Australian government's Smartraveller website for country-specific advice, since rules can change. If you plan to change your name, your foreign marriage certificate is usually accepted as proof.