A marriage certificate is an official document issued by the New South Wales (NSW) Department of Births, Deaths, and Marriages (BDM) that provides legal proof of a marriage. This certificate is necessary for a wide range of legal and administrative purposes, including changing your name, applying for visas, accessing joint financial services, and proving marital status for various legal processes. If you have been married in NSW, you can apply for an official marriage certificate from the NSW BDM. This article outlines the steps involved in obtaining a marriage certificate, the types of certificates available, and the requirements for applying.

Who Can Apply for a Marriage Certificate?

The NSW Department of Births, Deaths, and Marriages restricts who can apply for a marriage certificate to protect the privacy and legal rights of individuals. You are eligible to apply for a marriage certificate if you meet one of the following criteria:

• You are one of the persons named on the marriage certificate (either spouse).
• You are a legal representative acting on behalf of one of the spouses (such as a solicitor).
• You are a third party with written consent from one of the parties named on the certificate.

Types of Marriage Certificates

When applying for a marriage certificate in NSW, there are two main types to choose from, depending on your needs:

1. Standard Marriage Certificate:
   This is the most common type of certificate, suitable for legal and official purposes. It contains full details of the marriage, including the names of both spouses, the date and place of the marriage, and the names of the celebrant or officiant. It is typically used for legal name changes, visa applications, and proof of marriage for official matters.
2. Commemorative Marriage Certificate:
   This is a decorative version of the marriage certificate, often chosen as a keepsake. While it is a lovely memento, it holds no legal value and cannot be used for official purposes.

How to Apply for a Marriage Certificate

You can apply for a marriage certificate in NSW online, by mail, or in person. Below is a step-by-step guide to each method.

1. Apply Online

Applying online is the fastest and most convenient way to obtain a marriage certificate. Here’s how to do it:

• Visit the NSW Births, Deaths, and Marriages website.
• Navigate to the Marriage Certificate Application page.
• Complete the online form with the required details, including the names of both spouses, the date of marriage, and the place of marriage.
• Upload any necessary identity documents (such as a passport or driver’s license) to verify your identity.
• Pay the application fee online using a credit or debit card.

After submitting the application, the certificate is typically processed within 5 to 10 business days and mailed to the address you provided.

2. Apply by Mail

If you prefer to apply by mail, follow these steps:

• Download and print the Marriage Certificate Application Form from the NSW BDM website.
• Fill in the form with the details of the marriage and the applicant’s information.
• Attach certified copies of your identity documents, which can be certified by an authorized individual such as a Justice of the Peace (JP) or notary public.
• Enclose the required payment as a cheque or money order.
• Mail the completed application form, certified identity documents, and payment to the NSW Department of Births, Deaths, and Marriages at the address provided on the form.

Processing times for mail applications may take longer due to postal delays.

3. Apply in Person

You can also apply in person by visiting a Service NSW center or the NSW Department of Births, Deaths, and Marriages office. Here’s how:

• Bring the completed application form, along with the required identity documents.
• Submit the form and documents at a Service NSW center or BDM office.
• Pay the application fee using a card or another accepted payment method.

Processing for in-person applications typically follows the same timeline as online applications, but you can submit your identity documents in person, avoiding the need for certified copies.

Identity Documents Required

When applying for a marriage certificate, you must provide proof of your identity. Typically, this includes:

• Primary ID: Passport, driver’s license, or proof of age card.
• Secondary ID: Medicare card, utility bill, or bank statement.

If you are applying by mail, these documents must be certified by a recognized official.

Processing Time and Fees

Processing times for marriage certificates in NSW usually range from 5 to 10 business days for online and in-person applications. Mail applications may take longer due to postal delays. The fees for a standard marriage certificate vary, and expedited services may be available for an additional cost.