Some couples need to get legally married but prefer not to hold a full ceremony, or they may be headed abroad and wish to complete their legal marriage in Alberta before they leave. Fortunately, this is a straightforward process. The couple must visit an Alberta Registry office together to obtain a marriage license, for which there is a fee. It is essential to have legal identification, such as a driver’s license or passport. If either partner has been divorced, it is important to bring the divorce papers as well.
If you would like to receive an official government document confirming your marriage, you can purchase it at the same time as your license or afterward. Please note that if you do not request this document, you will not receive anything from the government after your legal marriage. The marriage commissioner will provide you with a "marriage statement" that includes the date, names, location, as well as the names and signatures of the witnesses and the marriage commissioner.
Once your marriage ceremony is complete, the marriage commissioner will send your license to Alberta Government Vital Statistics, where it will be entered into their system. The processing time can vary depending on the time of year, and it may take a few weeks during busy summer months, so please don't be alarmed.
Note: The marriage commissioner or registry office has no control over the processing time.
