Getting married in Nova Scotia: marriage licence, fees and documents

How to get a marriage licence in Nova Scotia: age, where to apply, documents, fee and how long it is valid, from the official pages.

Getting a marriage licence

Both complete the Marriage Licence Application and Affidavit (witnessed by an authorized agent) and apply through Access Nova Scotia or a Deputy Issuer; you do not need to live in the province. Each needs unexpired government photo ID and proof of age, plus proof of divorce or death if applicable. 16- and 17-year-olds need written consent; 15 and under cannot marry. Give the licence to the officiant at least three days before the ceremony. Pages disagree on validity and fees: confirm before paying.

Official page: getting married ↗

After the ceremony

The officiant registers the marriage with the province; you then order a marriage certificate separately, and can change your name on your documents using it (see our documents and ID page).

Fees and rules change and were read on 2026-11-14; confirm with the issuer. General information, not legal advice. Quebec weddings follow Quebec rules: see atlasquebec.ca.

Guides for this province