To get married in Tasmania, both people must meet the legal requirements set by the Marriage Act 1961 and the Marriage Regulations 2017.
The Main Requirements
You must:
- not already be married
- not be marrying a parent, grandparent, child, grandchild, brother, or sister
- usually be at least 18 years old
- understand what marriage means
- freely agree to marry
- give a NOIM to an authorised celebrant at least one month and no more than 18 months before the marriage
- be married by an authorised celebrant
What Documents Are Usually Needed
Your celebrant will usually need:
- evidence of date and place of birth, such as a birth certificate or passport
- evidence of identity, such as a driver’s licence or passport
- proof that any previous marriage has ended
- official translations for documents not in English
The Marriage Itself
For the marriage appointment:
- both people must be there in person
- the celebrant must be there in person
- two witnesses aged 18 or over must be there in person
- the required legal words must be said
- the documents must be signed
Important 2024 Change
The law now requires the celebrant to meet each person separately and in person before the marriage is solemnised.
If One of You Is Overseas
That does not stop you getting married in Tasmania. The NOIM can often still be prepared and witnessed while one person is overseas, but both people must still be physically present for the marriage itself.
If You Need More Time or Less Time
- The NOIM can be given up to 18 months ahead.
- If you need to marry in less than one month, you may need a shortening of time.
We can explain the process, but we cannot give legal advice on your specific situation.