How many witnesses do you need for a same-sex wedding in the UK?

Short answer

You need two witnesses for a wedding in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Scotland also requires two witnesses, but they must be aged 16 or over.

The number of witnesses is the same for same-sex and opposite-sex weddings. You need two witnesses present at the ceremony in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. In Scotland, you also need two witnesses, but they must be aged 16 or over.

Your witnesses do not need to be married or related to you. They simply need to be old enough to understand what is happening and able to sign the marriage schedule or document. In England and Wales, since 2021, marriages are recorded in a schedule or document signed on the day rather than in a register book.

Many couples choose their best friends or siblings as witnesses, but you can also ask a parent, a grandparent or a close family friend. Some couples ask their bridal party members to share the role, though only two signatures are required.

Remember that the minimum age to marry in England and Wales is 18, so a witness under 18 cannot be one of the partners. If your chosen witnesses are unsure about their role, explain that they just need to watch the ceremony and sign the paperwork.