Interpreters and Translators
Guidance on interpreters for the marriage and translations for supporting documents.
If someone involved in the marriage does not understand the language being used, an interpreter may be needed.
If your documents are not in English, you will usually need official translations.
Interpreters for the marriage
Official guidance says it is prudent for a celebrant to use an interpreter when the celebrant, either party, or the witnesses do not understand the language of the marriage ceremony.
The interpreter:
- cannot be one of the parties to the marriage
- must provide a statutory declaration about their language ability
- must give the celebrant a certificate of faithful performance after the ceremony
Translating documents
If your birth certificate, divorce papers, or other documents are not in English, the safest option is an official NAATI-certified translation.
The Attorney-General’s guidance says translations are not legally required to be by an accredited translator in every case, but celebrants should ask couples to obtain official NAATI-certified translations of documents not in English.
Practical advice
- sort translations early
- bring the original document as well as the translation
- allow extra time if an interpreter is needed for the marriage itself
Related guides
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.