Applying for a Marriage Certificate in Queensland
A practical guide to the difference between the ceremonial certificate and the official Queensland marriage certificate.
After your marriage, there are usually two different certificates people talk about.
The certificate you get on the day
On the day, you receive a ceremonial certificate.
It is a keepsake and a record of the marriage day, but it is usually not the certificate you use for official purposes.
The certificate you use for legal proof
For name changes, passports, and official proof of marriage, you usually need the official marriage certificate issued by Queensland Births, Deaths and Marriages.
What happens after the marriage
After the marriage:
- the celebrant lodges the marriage paperwork with the registry
- the marriage is registered in Queensland
- you can then order the official certificate
Under the official guidance, the celebrant must send the registration paperwork to the registry within 14 days of the marriage.
When people usually need the official certificate
The official certificate is commonly used for:
- changing your surname with organisations
- passport applications
- visa matters
- general legal proof of marriage
Best next steps
Ready to get married?
Start with the booking form
Fill out the booking form and pay the fee, then prepare your Notice of Intended Marriage with NOIM Easy. Once we receive your paperwork and check availability, we confirm the date, time, and place for your short legal marriage.