How to Get Married in Australia for Overseas Couple
Australia is a beautiful country that offers a perfect setting for weddings. It's no wonder many couples from overseas choose to tie the knot here. If you're considering getting married in Australia, there are a few things you need to know.
Amber & Jean tied the knot at St Kilda Beach. Photo by Rhys Gadsby
Do we need to be an Australian Citizen?
Of course not!!
Firstly, you don't have to be an Australian citizen to get married in Australia.
However, you do need to meet certain requirements.
* You and your partner are both at least 18 years old. (If you’re younger, you’ll need court permission)
* You both give your consent to the marriage and fully understand the legal implications of marriage.
* You need to be legally free to marry each other, which means you're not currently married to anyone else.
* You also cannot be closely related, such as being siblings or niece/nephew and aunty/uncle.
And then once you’ve ticked all those requirements above, you need to:
* Give your celebrant a notice of your intention to marry via the NOIM form - Notice of Intended Marriage
Please note that you must lodge your NOIM to your celebrant at least one month before your wedding date but no more than 18 months.
* Provide your celebrant either with:
1) your passports OR 2) birth certificate along with one other form of photo ID
Damien and James married in a nursery. Photo by Leo Farrell
How will we get the NOIM signed and witnessed overseas?
Easy!
Once you have filled out the NOIM form, you have to take it to the Australian Consular Officer, and Australian Diplomatic Officer, a notary public, an employee of the Commonwealth authorised under paragraph 3(c) of the Consular Fees Act 1955, or an employee of the Australian Trade Commission authorised under paragraph 3(d) of the Consular Fees Act 1955.
Once finished, you can email it to your celebrant, who will then assist you in planning your ideal wedding!
What if we are currently living in different countries?
No sweat!
One of you can complete the details of the NOIM for both of you and then they can get it signed and witnessed on one side only. The other party can then simply sign the NOIM in front of the authorised celebrant when they arrive in Australia, prior to the marriage taking place.
Wow that’s easy!
I know right!
So in conclusion, getting married in Australia as an overseas couple is pretty straightforward, as long as you meet the requirements and follow the necessary steps!
With its fabulous scenery, (have you heard about our beaches?... seriously!) and our chilled out vibes, Australia is the perfect place to start your life together as a married couple.
Do it!
Hit me up with any further questions.
Rachel & Zane get hitched at home. Photographer - A family member.