A shortening of time is the formal approval that can sometimes allow a marriage to happen in less than one month after the NOIM is given.
The Most Important Rule
The NOIM must be lodged first.
There is no shortening of time application without a completed NOIM already in the system.
Who Decides
The decision is made by a prescribed authority, not by us.
We can explain the process, but we cannot:
- approve it
- guarantee it
- influence the result
The Official Categories
The regulations allow a shortening of time only in limited categories:
- employment-related or travel commitments
- wedding or celebration arrangements
- medical reasons
- legal proceedings
- error in giving notice
What Usually Helps
A prescribed authority will normally want evidence showing why the situation fits one of those categories.
That might include:
- employer letters
- travel bookings
- medical letters
- court documents
- evidence of an error
The Process
- complete and lodge the NOIM
- gather the documents that support your situation
- contact the prescribed authority
- take the paperwork and evidence to the appointment
- wait for the decision
Be Realistic
Shortenings of time are not for convenience alone.
If your reason does not fit one of the recognised categories, it is unlikely to be approved.
If you can avoid the problem by getting the NOIM done early, that is always the simpler path.
If you do need to marry quickly, read how to get married quickly in Tasmania. The $700 paperwork-only marriage is usually the easiest format to fit around a tight, approved date.