Marriage and Civil Partnership Questions and Answers
Are all couples required to wait the minimum 29 day notice period?
Yes, unless they are granted dispensation under exceptional circumstances.
The date that notices are lodged will begin the 29-day minimum notice period.
Can couples who lodge notice now extend their notice period if required?
No, notices are valid for a maximum of 3 calendar months. After this time, new notices must be submitted if there are any changes to the date.
I am in the UK on a working VISA, can I get married in Scotland?
If you are a national of a country outside the UK and intend to get married or register a civil partnership in Scotland, you will need an entry clearance.
If you are already in the UK and are subject to immigration control but do not have a visa specifically for the purpose of marriage or civil partnership, we must refer your marriage to the Home Office for approval. This can increase the notice period from 29 to 70 days, so we recommend submitting your paperwork to the registrar as early as possible. Further information is available on the NRS website.
Have the regulations on face coverings changed since the last update?
There are no current regulations regarding face coverings. However, members of the public are advised to follow Scottish Government guidance and are, of course, welcome to wear a face covering if they wish.
What are the differences between a marriage and a civil partnership?
Couples of any gender can now choose to enter into either a marriage or a civil partnership. The Scottish Government has released a guide on the differences and legalities of each to help couples make an informed choice. You can view the guide here. Your local registrar is also happy to answer any questions.
Do I need to pay a deposit when I book my Marriage Ceremony?
Yes, we require a £90 non-refundable deposit at the time of booking.
Can you provide witnesses?
You will need two witnesses for your wedding, both aged 16 or over. A registrar may be able to provide witnesses for ceremonies taking place Monday to Friday — this can be discussed when booking.
What difference is there between a Registrar and a Non-Belief/Faith Celebrant?
If the ceremony is conducted by a registrar, the paperwork and ceremony arrangements are included as one service. A civil ceremony is conducted by a registrar who can add personalised content. When using a non-belief or faith celebrant, you still need to contact the local registrar to complete the legal paperwork. The marriage schedule must be collected during the week of the wedding by the couple and returned to the registrar within 3 days after the ceremony.What time/days of the week do you conduct your ceremonies?
Ceremonies are carried out Monday to Saturday during times set by the local registrar. If you have special requirements, please let us know and we will explore options with you.Where can I have my ceremony?
Anywhere with the owner’s permission! That could be a hotel, boat, beach, garden, old school, tea room — even the place where you first met. We’ll just need a copy of the venue’s public liability insurance and will arrange a pre-ceremony visit. Each area also has its own ceremony rooms available for bookings.If we are getting married outside, what happens if it’s raining on the day?
When booking your ceremony, your registrar will explain that you must have a wet weather alternative in case of poor conditions.How much does it cost for a civil wedding?
Fees vary depending on where and when your wedding takes place. Please see our fees and charges page for details, or contact us for a quote.How long can a ceremony last?
Your ceremony can be as short or as long as you wish! We’ll discuss ideas and timing with you after you’ve submitted your paperwork.How can I make my ceremony special or unique?
Our website’s “Ceremonies” tab has lots of ideas for enhancements. You’re also welcome to discuss your thoughts with a registrar by phone, email or in person when submitting your paperwork.Can we include music?
Absolutely! We have music available in our offices, or you can bring your own. Bluetooth and CD playback are available. Live music is also an option — it’s your day, your way!If I wanted my ceremony to have some religious element to it, would that be okay?
You can include religious elements if you wish. We simply ask that a guest or family member reads out any religious wording during the ceremony.What pen can I use to sign my marriage schedule?
Signatures must be made with a fountain pen using archive-quality permanent black ink, as schedules are permanent legal records.What name do I sign on my marriage schedule?
You must sign using the name that appears on your marriage schedule, as declared on your marriage notices.Do we have to have wedding rings?
Rings are optional. Choosing not to exchange rings won’t affect the validity of your marriage. Your registrar will confirm this with you before the big day.Can we have photographs taken and a film recording of our ceremony?
Yes — we’re happy for photos and video to be taken during the ceremony, as long as it doesn’t distract from the dignity of the occasion. We may also ask for permission to use a few photos on our social media or website (entirely optional, of course).Can we throw confetti?
Confetti is welcome — but only outside the building. Please ask guests to dispose of packaging responsibly.What if something changes on the day?
If any details on your marriage or civil partnership schedule are no longer correct (e.g. a witness changes or weather affects the location), please refer to our Amendments to a Schedule page for guidance.
How long do I need to wait after my wedding before getting my marriage certificate?
If you have a civil ceremony, your registrar will register the marriage upon returning to the office and post your certificate the same day.
For a religious or other belief ceremony, the signed marriage schedule must be returned to the registrar within 3 days. Once returned, your marriage will be registered and the certificate posted that day.
How do I change my name once I am married?
In Scotland, there’s no formal name change process after marriage. You may assume your spouse’s surname, double-barrel your names, or simply keep your own. The choice is entirely yours!
Here’s what to know, depending on your choice:
Taking your husband’s or wife’s name after marriage
Send a copy of your marriage certificate to the relevant authorities — such as the DVLA, your bank, and your employer. Always check if they need an original or will accept a copy.
You can also apply for a new passport. If you’re planning to honeymoon under your new name, you can apply in advance. More info on changing your passport.
Keeping your surname
If you choose to keep your surname, no action is needed. Your personal records and identification will remain unchanged.
Using a double-barrelled name
To double-barrel your surname, simply send copies of your marriage certificate to relevant authorities along with a note stating your new name (and whether it’s hyphenated or not).
I’ve lost my marriage certificate — how much is a replacement?
A replacement costs £10 within the calendar month of your marriage. After that, it’s £15.
You can order additional copies online or by contacting one of our registration offices.