Civil Ceremonies

The following regulations apply for a civil ceremony in Scotland to be legally recognised. The registrar will issue a marriage schedule; once satisfied there is no legal impediment to the marriage.

Giving Notice

In Scotland it is a legal requirement for both parties to the marriage to give notice of their intention to marry to declare they are legally free to marry. Notice must be given in person or by post. Complete notice forms must reach the registrar 4 weeks before the date of marriage however, if either party was previously married or from overseas, this increases to 6 weeks. The notice will be valid for 3 months. Your coordinator can supply these forms.

Residency Requirements

There are no residency requirements prior to marriage taking place in Scotland, although one of the parties of the marriage should personally visit the registrar in the district where the marriage is set to take place. This should be done during the 7 days leading up to the marriage date in order to collect the marriage schedule in the case of a religious ceremony and or to finalise the marriage arrangements in the case of a civil ceremony.

Where you can marry

Civil ceremonies in Scotland can take place in a registry office or an approved premise such as castles, hotels, stately homes etc.

Who can solemnise the ceremony

The ceremony will be solemnised by the registrar.

Marriage Schedule

The registrar will keep the marriage schedule and ensure it is available on the day of the marriage. The registrar will register the marriage.