How to Legally Get Married or Elope in New Zealand as an Overseas Couple
New Zealand, with its stunning landscapes and welcoming spirit, is the perfect destination for couples looking to say "I do" in an unforgettable setting. Whether you're planning an intimate elopement or a small wedding, here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the legal process and explain how we are here to help and make your dream a reality.
Check Your Eligibility
Before anything else, ensure that both you and your partner are eligible to marry in New Zealand. You must:
Be at least 18 years old (or have parental consent if aged 16-17).
Not be currently married or in a civil union with another person.
Not be closely related by blood.
Apply for a Marriage Licence
The most crucial step is obtaining a New Zealand marriage licence. Here's how:
Timing: You can apply for your marriage licence no earlier than three months before your wedding date. We will send you a friendly reminder with all the details you need and the link to apply
Application Form: Complete the online application form (unfortunately this is one step we can’t do for you)
Fee: Pay the applicable fee (as of now, NZD $150). The payment can be made online when you submit your application.
Recognizing Your New Zealand Marriage Overseas
Your New Zealand marriage certificate is a legally binding document and is recognized in many countries. However, depending on where you’re from, you might need to do a little extra to make sure it’s fully accepted back home.
Countries That May Need Extra Steps: If you're from countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, or most European nations, you may need an apostille. This is just a special seal that confirms your marriage certificate is official, and is not very often needed
For Other Countries: If you’re from countries like China, Indonesia, the UAE, or some places in the Middle East and Africa, you might need to get your certificate authenticated. This means having it certified by New Zealand authorities and then recognized by your home country's embassy or consulate.
The good news is that applying for this is pretty easy and can usually be done online through the New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs. Once you've got your apostille or authentication, your marriage certificate will be fully recognized as a legally binding document back home, giving you all the legal benefits of marriage.
What Happens Behind the Scenes After Your Elopement Ceremony
After you've shared your vows and celebrated your love in one of New Zealand's most stunning locations, the magic continues behind the scenes to ensure everything is taken care of.
Official Paperwork: Once the ceremony is over, your celebrant will handle the important task of signing your marriage licence, along with your witnesses. They’ll then send it off to the Registrar of Marriages, who will officially register your marriage with the New Zealand government.
Marriage Certificate: Within a few days, your marriage will be officially recorded, and you you can eagerly await you marriage certificate (you tick a box when applying for your license to automatically receive your certificate). This certificate is your official proof of marriage and will be recognized both in New Zealand and internationally, giving you peace of mind that everything is legally binding.
From start to finish, we’re here to make sure your elopement is as seamless and stress-free as possible, allowing you to focus entirely on each other. After all, this is your love story—elevated in every way.
