What do I need to get married?
The bare essentials you need to get married are two people who want to be married, two witnesses, a marriage license, and a licensed marriage commissioner (like me!). Anything else you want to add (rings, guests, fancy clothes, food…) that’s all icing on the cake, if you will.
Who can get married?
Any two unmarried people who are consenting can get married in Saskatchewan. There are special requirements if you are under 18.
How do I get a marriage license?
You can obtain a marriage license at many different locations. You both must be present to obtain the license. (If one person cannot be present, there is a special circumstances protocol.) Many insurance businesses will sell marriage licenses, as well as jewelers!
To see where else in Saskatchewan you can purchase a marriage license, check out this link.
*Note: You do not have to purchase a marriage license in your home city/town, or in the city/town you intend to be married in. It just has to be issued in Saskatchewan.
When can I get married?
You can get married at anytime 24 hours after the purchase of your marriage license, or within 90 days of purchase.
What is the difference between a religious and civil ceremony? Are they both legal?
Both of these types of ceremonies are legal. There are basic legal requirements that need to be met in order to solemnize a marriage. A religious ceremony still has to meet the basic civil requirements but then has added religious connotations. A commissioner cannot add religion into their ceremonies. (Although the couple, if they wish, may choose to have religious readings or traditions in their ceremony lead by another speaker).
On this site, on the Ceremony Options page, there are two ceremony fees. What is the difference between the pre-written (legal) ceremony and the personalized ceremony?
The pre-written (legal) ceremony has only what is required by law to have in a marriage ceremony. It is very short and to the point. Whereas, a personalized ceremony is tailored to your preferences as a couple. It still has all the legal parts but the ceremony script is a reflection of the couple and their relationship.
Does my name change automatically when I get married?
Nope! If you want to change your name after marriage, you can start using the new name on unofficial documents and social media right away. Legal changes won’t start until after you receive the Official Marriage Certificate from eHealth after the marriage.
How do I get a Marriage Certificate?
Your commissioner will give you an unofficial certificate upon the end of your ceremony, but the Official Certificate has to be ordered from eHealth Saskatchewan. It is good to wait a few weeks before ordering it to ensure all the paperwork has been processed by eHealth. Follow this link to see the entire process.
I want a destination wedding, outside of Canada! How do I ensure it’s legal?
To totally ensure everything is valid you could do all the paperwork with your witnesses and commissioner here before you go, and then have the formal and symbolic ceremony at your destination. To be married with a Saskatchewan marriage license, all the legal requirements need to take place within Saskatchewan. This link has great information about getting married overseas.
We want a friend/family member to marry us! Do they have to become a marriage commissioner?
A friend or family member can obtain a one-time license to be a marriage commissioner in Saskatchewan. If they are unable or unsure about being an licensed marriage commissioner then I can work with them to ensure the legal aspects are fulfilled. There are many ways that this can be done. For example, a friend can perform the bulk of the ceremony, and then the commissioner can step in for the legal requirements.
Information from the Government of Saskatchewan regarding Marriages, Name Changes and Marriage Licenses.