Marriage Notice Requirements Checklist
Complete document checklist for giving notice of marriage at Lichfield Registry Office
Interactive checklist ensures you have all required documents before your appointment
Before you can get married in Lichfield, both parties must give notice of marriage to the Registry Office. This legal requirement involves providing specific documentation and information during your appointment.
Our interactive checklist below helps ensure you have all the required documents for giving notice before your visit, saving you time and avoiding delays.
Marriage Notice Document Checklist
Tick off the documents you have ready for your notice appointment:
Essential Documents Explained
Photo Identification
You must bring one of the following original documents:
- Valid UK or EU passport
- UK photocard driving licence
- EEA national identity card
Important: Photocopies are not acceptable for photo ID. The document must be current and not expired.
Proof of Address
Accepted documents dated within the last 3 months include:
- Utility bills (gas, electricity, water, landline phone)
- Council tax statement
- Bank or building society statement
- Mortgage statement
Birth Certificate Requirements
You need a full birth certificate showing both parents' details. Short-form certificates showing only basic details are not sufficient. The certificate can be:
- Original birth certificate
- Certified copy from General Register Office
- Certified copy from local registry office
Need help gathering your documents?
Order Birth CertificatesAdditional Documentation
If Previously Married
If either party has been married before, you must provide original documents:
- For divorce: Decree Absolute (not Decree Nisi)
- For bereavement: Death certificate of former spouse
- For annulment: Decree of nullity
Change of Name Documentation
If your current name differs from your birth certificate, bring:
- Deed poll certificate (original)
- Marriage certificate (if name changed through marriage)
- Statutory declaration of change of name
Warning: Appointments may be cancelled if you arrive without the correct documentation. Double-check our complete notice requirements beforehand.
Fees and Payment Information
The statutory fee for giving notice of marriage is £57.00 per person, meaning couples pay £114.00 total.
Card Payments
- Visa and Mastercard accepted
- Contactless up to £100
- Chip and PIN available
Cash Payments
- Exact change preferred
- Sterling only
- Receipt provided
Appointment Process
Both parties must attend the notice appointment together. The process typically takes 20-30 minutes and involves:
Document Verification
Registrar checks all original documents against our requirements
Form Completion
Complete declaration forms with personal and ceremony details
Payment Processing
Pay the statutory fee and receive your receipt
Waiting Period
15-day waiting period begins before you can marry
Official Booking Portal
Book your notice appointment through Staffordshire County Council's official system:
Book Notice AppointmentOfficial Staffordshire County Council portal
What happens if I forget a document?
Your appointment will need to be rescheduled and you'll need to book a new appointment. Fees are non-refundable once the appointment has started.
Can I give notice if I'm not a UK citizen?
Yes, but additional documentation may be required. Contact our office directly to discuss your specific requirements as they vary by nationality and residency status.
How long is the notice valid for?
Notice is valid for 12 months from the end of the 15-day waiting period. You must marry within this timeframe or give notice again. Check our ceremony booking page for availability.
Do both partners need separate appointments?
No, both parties attend the same appointment together. Each person pays £57, so bring £114 total. Both must bring their own complete set of documentation as outlined in our checklist above.
Ready to give notice of your marriage?
Next: Complete Guide to Giving Notice