5 STEPS TO GETTING MARRIED IN IRELAND

Getting married in Ireland has changed significantly over the past fifteen years. Couples today have far more choice in how and where they marry, reflecting both legal change and a broader understanding of what marriage can look like.

Previously, the only legally recognised options were a church wedding or a civil ceremony in a registry office, and marriage itself was limited to opposite-sex couples. Ireland today is more inclusive, allowing couples to celebrate their marriage in a way that reflects their values, beliefs and personal story.

Step 1: Understand How Marriage Works Legally in Ireland

In Ireland, what makes a marriage legally valid is not the style of the ceremony, but who solemnises it.

A legal marriage must be conducted by a Registered Solemniser who is listed on the State Register of Solemnisers. Registered Solemnisers fall into three broad categories:

• Civil registrars, who conduct state civil ceremonies

• Religious solemnisers from recognised faith bodies

• Other authorised bodies that provide inclusive or alternative approaches, including my organisation, Entheos Ireland

Entheos is a non-denominational body whose Registered Solemnisers are legally authorised to conduct marriage ceremonies seven days a week throughout Ireland.

Entheos was established to serve people who may feel excluded or constrained by traditional faith pathways, whether due to gender, race, sexual orientation, ability, nationality, family status or personal belief.

Our ceremonies offer couples the freedom to create a ceremony that reflects their own values and beliefs. This may be entirely secular, gently spiritual, symbolic or reflective, depending on what feels right for you. Many couples choose to include meaningful elements such as lighting a candle to remember loved ones who have passed, cultural traditions, or readings that hold personal significance. All Entheos ceremonies are fully compliant with Irish marriage law.

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Step 2: Give Three Months’ Notice to the State

All couples must give a minimum of three months’ notice of their intention to marry.

This is done in person, by both partners, at a Civil Registration Service. You must book a marriage notification appointment in advance.

It is important to note that the three-month notice period begins on the day you attend this appointment, not the day you book it. Booking early gives you the best chance of securing your preferred wedding date.

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Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

At your notification appointment, you will be asked to provide documentation such as:

• Valid photo identification, usually a passport

• PPS numbers, where applicable

• Long-form birth certificates

• Documentation relating to any previous marriage or civil partnership, if relevant

Requirements can vary depending on individual circumstances, so it is always a good idea to contact your local registration office in advance. They are very helpful and happy to guide you through exactly what you need.

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Step 4: Make Sure You Meet the Legal Requirements

Both partners must be at least 18 years of age on the date of the wedding.

There is also a €200 State fee payable to the Civil Registration Service as part of the marriage notification process. This fee is separate from any fee payable to your celebrant.

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Step 5: Choose the Ceremony That Feels Right for You

Couples in Ireland can choose from a civil, religious or non-denominational ceremony. The key point to remember is that the ceremony must be conducted by a Registered Solemniser to be legally recognised.

Civil ceremonies are conducted by civil registrars and are secular in nature. They usually take place Monday to Friday and must be held in a registry office or an approved venue.

Religious ceremonies are conducted by recognised religious solemnisers and may involve additional requirements depending on the faith tradition.

Non-denominational ceremonies, such as those conducted by Entheos Registered Solemnisers, offer flexibility in both content and venue, while still meeting all legal requirements. These ceremonies can take place seven days a week and allow couples to shape a ceremony that feels personal, inclusive and meaningful.

It is worth noting that not every celebrant is a Registered Solemniser. Only ceremonies conducted by someone listed on the State Register of Solemnisers are legally binding without the need for a separate civil ceremony.

If you have any questions on the above, drop me a line

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