How to Get Married Legally in British Columbia | A Clear Step-by-Step Overview by The Ensora
- Kit & Kevin | The Ensora
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Current as of 2025
A calm, officiant led approach to getting married in BC, from applying for your marriage licence to holding your ceremony at The Ensora in Richmond.
中文版閱讀： 如何在卑詩省合法結婚
Step by Step Guide to Getting Married in BC
Step 1: Apply for a BC Marriage Licence
You can apply for your marriage licence within three months of your ceremony date.Licences are issued in person by authorized marriage licence issuers throughout BC. You’ll receive it immediately after applying.
What to bring Government issued photo ID for both partners
Cost $100 (non refundable; payment methods vary)
Processing time Immediate
💡 You don’t have to live in BC to get married here, international and out of province couples are always welcome.
External reference: BC Government – Getting Married in British Columbia
Step 2: Choose a Licensed Marriage Officiant
In BC, your marriage becomes legal only when it’s conducted by a registered officiant. At The Ensora, every ceremony is officiant led. Our officiants are provincially licensed by BC Vital Statistics and specialize in calm, modern ceremonies that feel both meaningful and effortless.
Step 3: Arrange Two Witnesses
Two witnesses are required to sign your marriage documents. You may invite family or friends, or request witness service through our officiant team.
For couples planning a signing only ceremony, our team can provide witnesses on site to keep the process seamless.
Step 4: Hold the Legal Ceremony
Your legal ceremony can take place anywhere in British Columbia, but an indoor ceremony venue ensures privacy, comfort, and all weather readiness.
At The Ensora, your officiant will:
Confirm your legal names and intent to marry.
Guide you through the Declaration of Intent.
Witness and sign the official Marriage Licence and Registration Form with you and your witnesses.
Once signed, your marriage is legally complete, with no additional steps required.
If you prefer an indoor ceremony venue in Vancouver or Richmond, The Ensora offers a quiet space for couples who value clarity, intention, and modern minimalist design. It is a private, pet friendly venue created by officiants to bring ceremonies back to the purest feeling of life.
Step 5: Receive Your Official Marriage Certificate
After your ceremony, your officiant registers the marriage with BC Vital Statistics.Your first original certificate is mailed to you automatically.
If you need additional or replacement copies later, you can order them through the BC Government – Order a Marriage Certificate page.
Legal Checklist for Marriage in BC
Valid marriage licence issued within three months
Registered officiant
Two witnesses
Completed Declaration of Intent and signatures
Getting Married in Metro Vancouver
Couples in Metro Vancouver can choose between:
Indoor ceremony venues like The Ensora, a Richmond officiant led space with natural light and pet friendly policies.
Outdoor locations such as Stanley Park, Whytecliff Park, or Queen Elizabeth Park.
Both options carry equal legal standing, the difference lies in the experience and the atmosphere.
External reference: Top 5 Wedding Ceremony Venues in Richmond, BC (2025 Update) | Vancity Officiant Wedding Guide
Common Questions about Getting Married in BC
Can I get married in BC if I’m not a Canadian citizen?
Yes. You only need valid identification and a BC marriage licence.
Can I have a private signing without a large wedding?
Absolutely. A signing ceremony at The Ensora is fully legal and ideal for couples who prefer a simple, indoor, officiant led experience without the stress of a big event.
About The Ensora
The Ensora is a modern indoor ceremony venue in Richmond BC created by the team behind Vancity Officiant.Our philosophy is simple, to bring weddings back to what matters most: presence, clarity, and connection.Every ceremony here is guided by a licensed officiant and crafted with intention so you can arrive, breathe, and say “I do.”
Connect with The Ensora
If you would like to explore our ceremony space or discuss your plans, we would love to hear from you.
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