5 STEPS TO GETTING MARRIED IN IRELAND

Getting married in Ireland has changed significantly over the past fifteen years. Today, couples have far more choice in how and where they marry, reflecting both legal changes 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 is now more inclusive, allowing couples to celebrate their marriage in ways that reflect their values, beliefs and personal story.

Alongside all the exciting planning – venues, music, outfits and celebrations – there are a few legal steps to take to be officially married in Ireland. The good news is that the process is straightforward once you know what’s required.

This guide explains, in clear and simple terms:

how getting married works legally in Ireland
who is legally allowed to marry you
and which parts of the process are between you and the State

Understanding your options from the outset can help you make choices that feel right for you. The steps below guide you through both the legal requirements and the choices available.

Step 1: Understand how marriage works legally in Ireland

In Ireland, what makes a marriage legally valid is not the style or content 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.

Under Irish law, marriages fall into two legal categories:

Civil – ceremonies conducted by a civil registrar
Religious – ceremonies conducted by a Registered Solemniser

The term “religious” here is a legal classification. It refers to how the solemniser is registered with the State. It does not necessarily describe the content, beliefs or tone of the ceremony.

This is an important distinction. While some ceremonies that are legally classified as religious are faith-based, others are not.

Legally classified religious ceremonies include:

traditional church weddings
ceremonies from other faith traditions (such as Jewish, Muslim, Hindu or Buddhist ceremonies)
non-denominational ceremonies conducted by Registered Solemnisers

Entheos Ireland is a recognised, non-denominational religious body. Its Registered Solemnisers are legally authorised to conduct marriage ceremonies seven days a week, anywhere in Ireland. While Entheos solemnisers are legally classified as religious solemnisers, the ceremonies we conduct are not restricted to religious content and can be fully non-religious in tone.

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 office. A marriage notification appointment must be booked in advance.

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

Step 3: Prepare your documents

At your marriage 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 generally very helpful and happy to guide you through exactly what you need.

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 or solemniser.

Step 5: Choose the ceremony and solemniser that feel right for you

Once the legal requirements are in place, you can focus on choosing the ceremony and solemniser that feel right for you.

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

Ceremonies conducted by Registered Solemnisers offer greater flexibility. While they are legally classified as religious, this classification does not necessarily affect the tone or content of the ceremony. Depending on the celebrant and organisation, ceremonies may be:

fully non-religious
gently spiritual
symbolic or reflective

Ceremonies conducted by a Registered Solemniser can take place seven days a week and in a wide range of locations.

It is important to note that only ceremonies conducted by a Registered Solemniser listed on the State Register of Solemnisers are legally binding, without the need for a separate civil ceremony.

Choosing a solemniser is not just a legal decision, but a personal one. Alongside availability and location, it is worth considering the tone, approach and level of flexibility that best reflect who you are and how you want your ceremony to feel.

If you are unsure why certain ceremonies are legally classified as “religious”, or what this means in practice, you’ll find a clear explanation in the FAQ section.

If you have any questions about getting married in Ireland, feel free to get in touch.