Getting married in NSW is an exciting milestone, and obtaining your official marriage certificate is an important next step. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about getting your marriage certificate in New South Wales.

Understanding Different Types of Marriage Certificates

Before you begin your application, it’s important to know which type of certificate you need, as there are several options available:

Standard Marriage Certificate

This is the official, legally recognised document you’ll need for most purposes. The standard certificate:

Serves as legal proof of marriage
Contains complete registration details
Features built-in security features to prevent fraud
Is accepted by all Australian government departments
Is required for changing your name on official documents like passports and driver’s licenses

Commemorative Marriage Certificate

While beautiful to display, commemorative certificates are not legally valid. These certificates:

Come in various decorative designs
Make wonderful keepsakes or gifts
Can be purchased alongside your standard certificate
Are perfect for framing and display
Cannot be used for legal or official purposes

Single Status Certificate

Sometimes called a ‘Certificate of No Record’, this document:

Confirms you have no recorded marriages in NSW
May be required if you’re planning to marry overseas
Can be authenticated by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)
Is only issued to the person named on the certificate

Eligibility: Who Can Apply for a Marriage Certificate?

Not everyone can request a marriage certificate. You must be:

One of the married parties
A child of the married couple
The executor of the married couple’s estate (with supporting documentation)
An administrator or trustee (with evidence)
Someone with written authority or power of attorney
A legal representative with written authority

Note: Marriage records that are over 75 years old become public record and can be accessed through the NSW State Archives.

How to Apply: Three Convenient Methods

1. Online Application (Recommended)

The fastest and most convenient method is applying online:

Visit the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages NSW website
Create or log into your Service NSW account
Fill out the online application form
Upload your identification documents
Pay the certificate fee
Save your application number for tracking

2. In-Person Application

If you prefer face-to-face service:

Locate your nearest Service NSW Centre
Bring all required identification documents
Be prepared to pay the applicable fees
Some locations offer same-day service
Call ahead to confirm service availability

3. Postal Application

To apply by mail:

Download the marriage certificate application form from the BDM NSW website
Complete all sections carefully
Attach certified copies of your identification
Include payment details
Mail everything to: Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages NSW GPO Box 30 Sydney NSW 2001

Required Identification Documents

You must provide three forms of identification from these categories:

Category 1 (Photo ID)

Australian passport
Foreign passport
Australian driver license
Firearms license
Australian birth certificate

Category 2 (Support Documents)

Medicare card
Credit or debit card
Centrelink or Department of Veterans Affairs card
Security guard/crowd control license
Student or tertiary identity card

Category 3 (Address Verification)

Recent utility bills
Current rental agreement
Council rate notice
Bank statement
Current school report or letter

Important Notes:

Documents must be current and valid
Copies must be certified by an authorised person
Non-English documents require NAATI-accredited translation
You need either one document from each category OR two from Category 1 and one from Category 2

Processing Times and Delivery Options

Standard Service

Processing takes 5-10 working days
Additional time needed for postal delivery
Track your application status online
Times may be longer during peak periods

Priority Service

Available for urgent needs
Processed within 2 business days
Higher fee applies
Order before 2pm for fastest processing
Not available for all application types

Delivery Methods

Standard Post
- Included in certificate fee
- Tracking number provided
- Delivers to Australian addresses
Express Post
- Additional fee applies
- Next business day delivery to most areas
- Signature required on delivery
International Delivery
- Higher fees apply
- Only sent via registered post
- Tracking available
- Delivery times vary by destination

Additional Services

Authentication for International Use

If you need your certificate for use overseas:

Request DFAT authentication
Additional fees apply
Allow extra processing time
Check specific country requirements

Urgent Applications

For time-sensitive situations:

Provide evidence of urgency
Pay priority processing fee
Submit additional documentation
Approval not guaranteed

Tips for a Smooth Application Process

Double-check all information before submitting
Ensure identification documents are current
Make copies of everything you submit
Keep your application number handy
Allow plenty of time for processing
Consider priority service if time is critical

Remember that marriage certificates are crucial documents for many life events, from changing your name to traveling internationally. Taking the time to follow these guidelines will help ensure a smooth and successful application process.

For specific questions or unique situations, contact the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages NSW directly for guidance.

Need Help?

Contact the Registry:

Phone: 13 77 88 (within Australia)
+61 2 8894 1555 (international)
Email: bdm@yourfeedback.nsw.gov.au
Visit: NSW BDM

Note: Current fees are listed on the BDM NSW website and are subject to change. Please check the website for the most up-to-date pricing.

Guide to Your Marriage Certificate