How to Legally Elope in Manitoba
Certainly! Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting legally married in Manitoba, Canada:
Obtain a Marriage License: To get married in Manitoba, you’ll first need to obtain a marriage license. You can apply for a marriage license at any Manitoba Vital Statistics Agency office. Both you and your partner must apply in person.
Eligibility: You and your partner must meet the eligibility requirements, which include being at least 18 years old. If you or your partner is between 16 and 18 years old, you can still get married, but you’ll need parental consent. You cannot marry anyone under the age of 16 in Manitoba.
Required Documents:
- When applying for a marriage license, you’ll need to provide the following documents:
- Valid government-issued photo identification (e.g., passport, driver’s license)
- Proof of age (e.g., birth certificate)
- If applicable, proof of divorce or annulment (original or court-certified copy) if either party has been previously married
- If applicable, a death certificate if a previous spouse has passed away
Application Fee: There is a fee for obtaining a marriage license in Manitoba. The fee may vary, so it’s a good idea to check with the Vital Statistics Agency for the current cost.
Waiting Period: Once you have applied for a marriage license, there is a five-day waiting period before the license becomes valid. This means you cannot get married within five days of applying.
Marriage Commissioner or Officiant: You will need to arrange for a Marriage Commissioner or authorized religious officiant to perform the marriage ceremony. You can find a list of authorized Marriage Commissioners in Manitoba on the Vital Statistics Agency’s website.
Marriage Ceremony: Your chosen Marriage Commissioner or officiant will conduct the marriage ceremony. During the ceremony, you and your partner will exchange vows and rings. Two witnesses (who are at least 18 years old) must be present and sign the marriage certificate.
Marriage Certificate: After the ceremony, your Marriage Commissioner or officiant will provide you with a Marriage Registration Form. This form must be returned to the Vital Statistics Agency to register your marriage officially.
Marriage Certificate Copies: You can request official copies of your marriage certificate for legal and personal purposes. There is a fee for each copy, and you can order them from the Vital Statistics Agency.
Notify Government Agencies: After your marriage is registered, you may need to update your marital status with government agencies, banks, insurance providers, and other relevant organizations.
Remember that the process and requirements for getting married in Manitoba may change over time, so it’s essential to verify the most up-to-date information and consult with the Manitoba Vital Statistics Agency or a legal professional if you have any specific questions or concerns.
For couples from the US:
In certain states, you can ask your county clerk the authorization to sign your wedding license abroad. If they agree, as a registered minister, my team and I will be able to legally marry you without the hassle of a legal wedding ceremony in Manitoba.