Give Notice of Marriage at Lichfield Registry Office

What is Notice of Marriage?

Notice of marriage is a formal declaration of your intention to marry. It's a legal requirement that must be completed at least 29 clear days before your wedding ceremony. This waiting period allows for any legal objections to be raised.

Who Needs to Give Notice?

• Both parties planning to marry
• Each person must attend a separate appointment
• Both UK residents and foreign nationals
• Couples planning civil ceremonies and religious ceremonies

The process applies whether you're planning a civil wedding ceremony at the registry office or a religious ceremony at an approved venue.

Notice of Marriage Appointment Process

Booking Your Appointment

Each person must book and attend a separate notice appointment. You can book your appointment online or contact the registry office directly.

What Happens During the Appointment

• Interview with a registrar (approximately 20-30 minutes)
• Verification of identity and eligibility to marry
• Review and completion of marriage notice form
• Payment of notice fees
• Confirmation of wedding ceremony details

Required Documents for Notice of Marriage

You must bring specific documents to prove your identity, nationality, and marital status. The exact requirements depend on your personal circumstances.

Essential Documents for All Applicants

• Valid passport or certified birth certificate
• Proof of address (utility bill, council tax statement, or bank statement from last 3 months)
• Evidence of marital status (if previously married)
• Deed poll documents (if name has been changed)

Additional Documents for Foreign Nationals

• Certificate of no impediment (from your home country)
• Valid visa or residence permit
• Translated documents (if not in English)
• Passport showing entry stamps to the UK

Document Verification

All documents must be original copies. The registrar will examine and retain photocopies of your documents. If your documents are in a foreign language, you'll need certified English translations.

Notice of Marriage Fees and Costs 2026

There are statutory fees for giving notice of marriage. These costs are set by the government and apply to all registry offices in England and Wales.

Current Fees Structure

• Notice of marriage fee: £47.00 per person
• Total for couple: £94.00 (both parties must pay)
• Additional fees may apply for complex cases
• Payment accepted by cash, card, or cheque

Remember that notice fees are separate from your wedding ceremony costs, which start from £57.00 for basic civil ceremonies.

After Giving Notice - What Happens Next

Once both parties have given notice, there's a mandatory waiting period before your wedding can proceed.

The Waiting Period

• Minimum 29 clear days after giving notice
• Notice is valid for 12 months from the date given
• Your marriage schedule will be prepared
• No ceremony can take place during the waiting period

Marriage Schedule

After the waiting period, you'll receive your marriage schedule - the legal document required for your wedding ceremony. You must collect this in person and bring it to your wedding.

Objections Process

During the waiting period, anyone can legally object to your marriage. Objections are rare but must be investigated if raised. The registrar will contact you if any objections are received.