How to Get Your Marriage Certificate in Tasmania

After your marriage ceremony, you’ll need official marriage certificates for various purposes. Here’s everything you need to know about getting your marriage certificate in Tasmania.

Types of Marriage Certificates

Ceremonial Certificate

  • Received on your wedding day from your celebrant
  • Commemorative document suitable for framing
  • Not accepted for most official purposes
  • Free as part of your ceremony

Official Marriage Certificate

  • Legal document issued by Tasmania BDM
  • Required for name changes, passport applications, visa applications
  • Accepted by all government agencies and institutions
  • Available after your marriage is registered

Certified Copy vs Extract

  • Certified copy: Full reproduction of marriage register entry
  • Extract: Summary document with key details
  • Both legally valid for most purposes
  • Check requirements with the organisation requesting the certificate

The Process: From Ceremony to Certificate

Step 1: Your Wedding Day

  • Ceremony completed with authorised celebrant
  • Documents signed by you, witnesses, and celebrant
  • Ceremonial certificate provided immediately
  • Legal paperwork prepared for registration

Step 2: Registration with Tasmania BDM

  • Celebrant submits marriage documents to Registry
  • Processing time: Usually 2-4 weeks
  • Registration confirmed when marriage enters official records
  • You’ll be notified when registration is complete

Step 3: Ordering Official Certificates

  • Apply online through Tasmania BDM website
  • Apply by post using official forms
  • Apply in person at Registry offices
  • Processing time: See Tasmania BDM for current timeframes

How to Order Your Certificate

Online Ordering

  • Fastest method for most people
  • 24/7 availability through Tasmania BDM website
  • Credit card payment accepted
  • Express delivery options available

Postal Application

  • Download forms from Tasmania BDM website
  • Complete accurately with all required details
  • Include payment (cheque or money order)
  • Post to Tasmania Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages

In-Person Application

  • Visit Registry offices in Hobart or Launceston
  • Bring identification and payment
  • Immediate processing may be available
  • Check opening hours before visiting

What You’ll Need to Apply

Information Required

  • Full names of both parties (as on marriage certificate)
  • Date of marriage
  • Place of marriage (venue or location)
  • Celebrant’s name (if known)
  • Your relationship to the married parties

Identification Required

  • Photo ID (driver’s licence, passport, proof of age card)
  • Proof of entitlement if applying for someone else’s certificate
  • Statutory declaration may be required in some cases

Fees and Timeframes

Current Fees

  • See Tasmania BDM for current certificate fees
  • Express services available at additional cost
  • Multiple copies can be ordered together
  • Payment methods vary by application method

Processing Times

  • Standard processing: See Tasmania BDM website
  • Express processing: Available for urgent needs
  • International delivery: Additional time required
  • Peak periods may involve longer delays

When You Need Marriage Certificates

Name Changes

  • Banks and financial institutions
  • Passport applications
  • Driver’s licence updates
  • Electoral roll changes
  • Insurance policies
  • Superannuation accounts

Visa and Immigration

  • Partner visa applications
  • Spouse visa documentation
  • Citizenship applications
  • International travel documents
  • Property purchases
  • Will and estate planning
  • Insurance claims
  • Court proceedings
  • Centrelink applications

Tips for Ordering Certificates

Order Multiple Copies

  • Different organisations may require original certificates
  • Keep copies for your records
  • Cheaper to order multiple certificates together
  • Avoid delays by having certificates ready when needed

Check Requirements First

  • Ask organisations what type of certificate they need
  • Certified copy vs extract requirements vary
  • Recent certificates may be required (issued within 12 months)
  • International use may require additional authentication

Plan Ahead

  • Order certificates before you need them
  • Allow processing time for standard applications
  • Consider express service for urgent needs
  • Check delivery times for your location

Common Questions

Q: How long after my wedding can I order a certificate? A: You can order once your marriage is registered with Tasmania BDM, usually 2-4 weeks after your ceremony.

Q: Can I order certificates for someone else’s marriage? A: Only in limited circumstances with proper identification and proof of entitlement.

Q: What if there’s an error on my certificate? A: Contact Tasmania BDM immediately. Errors may require correction through official processes.

Q: Do I need a certificate to change my name? A: Yes, most organisations require an official marriage certificate for name changes.

Q: Can I use my ceremonial certificate for official purposes? A: No, you need an official certificate from Tasmania BDM for legal and administrative purposes.

Ready to get married? Contact The Marriage Office to book your ceremony.

Need to understand the marriage process? Learn about requirements, NOIM lodgement, and getting married quickly.

Planning to use your certificate overseas? Read about apostille and legalisation requirements.