A paperwork-only marriage is exactly what it sounds like – you get all the legal benefits of marriage without the traditional wedding festivities.

It’s just the 120-odd legally required words, plus the official marriage paperwork required by the Marriage Act of 1961

It’s all about the marriage, with none of the wedding.

This option appeals to

practical couples,
those saving for a house,
people celebrating their marriage in an overseas wedding or elopement,
couples wanting a friend to marry them,
or anyone who wants to avoid the expense and planning of a big celebration.

Most importantly, it is fully legally binding.

What Is a Paperwork-Only Marriage?

A paperwork-only marriage is a legally recognised union that skips the ceremonial aspects. Instead of a full-blown wedding, the process focuses on fulfilling the legal requirements with the assistance of an authorised celebrant. For instance, during the ceremony, the celebrant will say the monitum:

I am duly authorised by law to solemnise marriages according to law. Before you are joined in marriage in my presence and in the presence of these witnesses, I am to remind you of the solemn and binding nature of the relationship into which you are now about to enter. Marriage, according to law in Australia, is the union of two people to the exclusion of all others, voluntarily entered into for life.

Each person then confirms their commitment by saying:

I call upon the persons here present to witness that I, Full Name, take thee, Full Name, to be my lawful wedded(wife, husband, or spouse).

This process is all about the necessary documentation and meeting legal requirements. It usually involves only the required witnesses and takes place over a table in a coffee shop, home, park, or venue.

The overall timeline is much shorter than a traditional wedding, as the focus is on the paperwork rather than on a celebratory event. It’s over a done in five minutes.

How It Differs from Traditional Weddings

There are several key differences between a paperwork-only marriage and a traditional wedding:

No Ceremony or Reception: There are no readings, poems, prayers, rituals, wedding gowns, flowers, aisles, guests, speeches, arbors, toasts, or special rituals beyond the legal statements.
Minimal Guest List: Only the essential witnesses are present.
Lower Cost: With no venue hire for a reception or ceremony, the overall expense is significantly reduced.
Shorter Timeline: The process is straightforward and quick, allowing the marriage to be finalised in a short time.
No Traditional Wedding Elements: There is no need for traditional wedding attire, decorations, or elaborate arrangements.

How It Differs from Elopements

While elopements can sometimes seem similar, there are important distinctions:

Ceremonial Elements: Elopements typically include some form of ceremonial activity, such as exchanging personal vows.
Travel: Many elopements involve a destination or travel, even if the group is small.
Photography and Memories: Couples opting to elope usually plan for a photographer and some ceremony touches, even if on a smaller scale.
Cost: Although elopements are generally more affordable than large weddings, they usually come with added expenses compared to a straightforward paperwork-only process.

Benefits of a Paperwork-Only Marriage

Choosing a paperwork-only marriage can offer several advantages:

Cost-Effective: With minimal extras, you avoid many of the costs associated with a traditional wedding.
Time-Efficient: The process is straightforward and quick, letting you finalise your marriage without lengthy planning.
Less Planning Stress: There is no need to organise a venue, guest list, or decorations.
Immediate Legal Benefits: You receive all the legal rights of marriage straight away.
Option to Celebrate Later: Many couples choose to have a larger celebration at a later date when circumstances allow.

Common Scenarios and Who Should Consider It

A paperwork-only marriage is a good option for many situations:

Couples Prioritising Home Buying: Save money for a deposit by avoiding expensive wedding costs.
Planning a Bigger Celebration Later: Legally tie the knot now and celebrate with friends and family at a later date.
Military Couples or Those With Special Circumstances: When time and finances are limited, this process can be ideal.
International Couples: For those who need to finalise their marriage quickly due to visa or residency requirements.
Couples Seeking Immediate Legal Benefits: If the legal aspects of marriage are the priority, this is a straightforward option.

Process Overview

Here’s what you can generally expect with a paperwork-only marriage:

Required Documentation: Ensure you have all necessary documents such as identification and any certificates required by local law.
Scheduling Information: Appointments are necessary – contact us at the marriage office for availability.
Witness Requirements: Typically, only a couple of witnesses are needed, two at minimum. If needed we can hire witnesses.
Timeline Expectations: The process is generally completed within a matter of minutes once the one month notice period has finished, making it a quick solution.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Paperwork-Only Ceremonies

Is a paperwork-only marriage legally valid?
Yes, a paperwork-only marriage is fully legally binding as long as all legal requirements are met.

How long does the process take?
The process is much quicker than a traditional wedding, often taking just a few hours from start to finish.

Can I have a celebration later on?
Absolutely. Many couples opt for the legal marriage first and plan a larger celebration later on with friends and family.

Can a friend or a minister of religion officiate my marriage if they are not legally authorised?
Only an authorised celebrant can conduct a legal marriage ceremony. Ensure that whoever conducts the ceremony meets all legal requirements.

What if I plan to marry overseas or have a big wedding overseas?
A paperwork-only marriage in Australia provides you with immediate legal benefits here. If you later choose to have a ceremony overseas, the legal marriage remains intact.

What Is A Paperwork-Only Marriage Ceremony?