Planning your wedding in Australia? First of all — excellent choice. Between the golden sands of Bondi, the sparkling Whitsundays, and Melbourne’s urban edge, there’s no shortage of backdrops to make your big day unforgettable.
But before the champagne pops and the vows are whispered, there’s something even more thrilling to discuss: paperwork.
Okay, okay — we know. Legal documents aren’t exactly the stuff of Pinterest boards. But if you want your marriage to be 100% official (and not just a sun-soaked photo op), you’ve got to get your legal ducks in a row.
And that’s where this guide comes in — part checklist, part love letter to bureaucracy (yes, really).
📝 First Things First: Can Anyone Get Married in Australia?
Short answer? Yes! Whether you’re an Aussie local or a couple flying in from across the world, Australia welcomes both residents and non-residents to legally marry on its shores.
But — there’s always a but — you need to follow a few legal steps. Here’s your ultimate cheat sheet.
🗂️ Required Documents for a Legal Wedding in Australia
1. Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM)
Think of this as your official RSVP to the Australian government.
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Must be submitted at least one month before your ceremony.
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Can be lodged up to 18 months in advance.
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Must be signed in front of an authorized witness (such as a celebrant, doctor, or notary).
You can download the NOIM form here.
🧠 Pro tip: Many couples forget about the one-month deadline. Set a calendar alert and get this done early — it’s the #1 thing that can delay your wedding.
2. Proof of Identity and Citizenship
For each partner, you’ll need:
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A passport (most straightforward for international couples), or
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A birth certificate + photo ID (for Australian citizens or residents).
Make sure all documents are original, not photocopies.
3. If Previously Married: Proof of Divorce or Death
Love deserves a second chance, but Australia needs the paperwork to prove the previous chapter has closed:
4. Certified Translations (if required)
Any documents not in English must be translated by a NAATI-accredited translator (find one here).
💍 Choosing an Authorized Wedding Celebrant
Only a registered celebrant can legally marry you in Australia — and they play a big role in making sure your paperwork is valid and submitted on time.
Use the official directory to find someone you vibe with: Commonwealth-registered celebrants.
🎤 Hot tip: A great celebrant doesn’t just say the words — they guide you through every legal requirement, ensure your ceremony feels like you, and mail off your documents like a legend.
✈️ Getting Married in Australia as a Foreigner
Good news: yes, you can get legally married in Australia on a tourist visa. You do not need to be a citizen or resident — but you do need to follow all the same legal requirements, especially lodging your NOIM on time.
📅 Real couple tip: Arrive in Australia a few weeks before your wedding to avoid jet lag, complete any final paperwork, and maybe even get a cheeky pre-wedding shoot in the city or by the sea. Just sayin’.
📍 Dreamy Locations for Saying “I Do”
Now that the paperwork’s handled, let’s talk inspiration. Australia isn’t just legally flexible — it’s visually jaw-dropping.
Whatever your vibe, Australia’s got a venue that speaks your language — whether it’s ocean, outback, or opera house.
📜 After the Wedding: How to Get Your Official Marriage Certificate
The certificate you sign on the day? That’s ceremonial. You’ll need to apply separately for your official marriage certificate, which you’ll use for name changes, visa applications, and Instagram bios.
Here’s where to apply depending on your state:
⌛ Processing times vary, so apply early and keep your celebrant’s contact info handy just in case.
❓ Wedding in Australia FAQ (Because We Know You’re Wondering)
Can I get married in Australia if I’m not a citizen?
Yes! All you need is a valid visa and your documents in order.
Do I need a visa to marry in Australia?
Yes — a tourist visa is enough. Just ensure your stay covers the wedding date.
How early do I need to submit the NOIM?
At least 1 month before the wedding. Max: 18 months ahead.
Do we both need to be present to lodge the NOIM?
Nope. One person can submit it, but both signatures must be witnessed before the wedding.
📸 Planning Your Aussie Wedding? Let’s Capture the Magic Together
Australia isn’t just a place — it’s a feeling. And your wedding here deserves to be captured with that same dreamy, unforgettable energy.
I’m Serg — the heart and lens behind Your Happy Moments, a destination wedding photographer with a soft spot for genuine love, sweeping landscapes, and relaxed, joyful celebrations. I’ve photographed couples in some of the world’s most beautiful places, and I’d be honoured to capture yours too.
Let’s make art together — the kind you’ll want to frame, post, and relive a hundred times over.
✨ Peek into love stories I’ve documented: My Blog & Portfolio
📦 Discover custom photo packages made for wanderlust-filled weddings: Photography Packages
📬 Let’s connect, plan, and dream: Say Hello
Let’s make your Aussie “I do” last forever — in every frame, every smile, every sun-kissed second.
