Can Americans Legally Get Married in Canada? Everything You Need to Know
If you’re an American dreaming of a destination wedding in Canada, you might be wondering: Can Americans legally get married in Canada? The short answer is yes! Canada is a popular wedding destination for couples from around the world, including Americans, thanks to its stunning landscapes, easy marriage requirements, and welcoming atmosphere.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about getting legally married in Canada as an American.
Is a Canadian Marriage Legal in the U.S.?
Yes! A marriage that is legally performed in Canada is recognized as valid in the United States. You don’t need to register your Canadian marriage in the U.S.—your official Canadian marriage certificate is all you need for proof of marriage.
What Do Americans Need to Do Before Arriving in Canada?
Before you head to Canada for your wedding, make sure you have the following:
✅ Valid passports (for both you and your partner)
✅ A general idea of where to get your marriage license (more on that below)
✅ Any required documentation (e.g., divorce papers if previously married)
✅ An officiant booked (or plans for a friend/family member to officiate)
✅ Two witnesses arranged (some photographers, including myself, can help with this!)
What Do Americans Need to Do Once They Get to Canada?
Once you arrive in Canada, there are a few important steps to ensure your wedding is legally recognized:
1. Obtain Your Marriage License
You must apply for and receive your marriage license in the province where you’re getting married. You can’t use a marriage license from one province in another.
Here’s how the process typically works:
Visit a local registry office or government service center in your wedding province.
Bring valid government-issued photo ID (passports work best).
If you were previously married, bring a divorce certificate or other proof of dissolution.
Pay the marriage license fee (varies by province, typically between $50–$150 CAD).
No blood tests or medical exams are required.
Some provinces allow you to apply online or have a waiting period, so check the rules in advance.
2. Meet with Your Officiant
Before the ceremony, it’s a good idea to confirm everything with your officiant. If you’re using a friend or family member as an officiant, ensure they have the necessary approval from the province.
3. Prepare Your Witnesses
Canadian law requires two witnesses to be present at your ceremony. If you're having a private elopement and don’t have witnesses, I can help arrange this for you!
4. Hold Your Ceremony & Sign the Marriage License
Once your ceremony is complete, you and your partner, your officiant, and both witnesses must sign the marriage license. The officiant will then file it with the province to make your marriage official.
5. Request Your Official Marriage Certificate
After your wedding, you’ll need to request a marriage certificate from the provincial government. This document serves as legal proof of marriage and is required for name changes, immigration purposes, and other legal matters.
What Do Americans Need to Do After Returning Home?
Once you return to the U.S., you may need to update your marital status and name (if applicable) with various government agencies and institutions. Here’s what you should do:
1. Obtain Your Official Canadian Marriage Certificate
Your officiant will register your marriage with the province where you got married, but you’ll need to request an official marriage certificate from the provincial vital statistics office.
Alberta: Order through Alberta Vital Statistics
British Columbia: Order through the Vital Statistics Agency of BC
Ontario: Order through ServiceOntario
Quebec: Order through Directeur de l'état civil
Each province has an online process where you can apply for your marriage certificate and have it mailed to you.
2. Check If You Need an Apostille or Authentication
Most U.S. states accept a Canadian marriage certificate as legal proof of marriage without any extra steps. However, some states or agencies may require an apostille (official authentication of the document).
If needed, you can request authentication through:
Global Affairs Canada (federal authentication)
The provincial government where you got married
This step is usually required if you need to submit your marriage certificate for immigration purposes or specific legal matters.
3. Update Your Name (If Changing)
If one spouse is changing their last name, they will need to update:
Social Security card (via the Social Security Administration)
Driver’s license or state ID (at the DMV)
Passport (through the U.S. State Department)
Bank accounts, insurance policies, and employer records
Each agency may require a certified copy of your Canadian marriage certificate as proof of name change.
4. Update Your Marital Status for Taxes & Benefits
Once married, you may need to update your marital status with:
The IRS (for tax purposes)
Health insurance providers
Any other legal or financial institutions
Your Canadian marriage certificate should be sufficient proof for most agencies.
Where Is the Best Place for Americans to Get Married in Canada?
Canada offers breathtaking locations for destination weddings and elopements. Some of the most popular spots include:
Banff & Jasper National Parks (Alberta) – Stunning mountain landscapes, turquoise lakes, and epic views
Vancouver & Whistler (British Columbia) – Coastal beauty and mountain scenery
Toronto & Niagara Falls (Ontario) – A mix of urban and natural wonders
Quebec City (Quebec) – European charm and romantic architecture
Prince Edward Island & Nova Scotia – Oceanfront weddings with picturesque views
If you’re looking for a magical elopement in the Canadian Rockies, I’d love to help capture your special day!
Final Thoughts: Getting Married in Canada as an American
For Americans, getting married in Canada is a straightforward process with minimal paperwork. Your Canadian marriage is legally recognized in the U.S., and you can choose from some of the most stunning locations in the world for your special day.
If you’re thinking about eloping or planning a destination wedding in Banff, Lake Louise, or Emerald Lake, I’d love to help bring your vision to life. Let’s make your dream wedding a reality!
📍 Planning a wedding or elopement in the Canadian Rockies? Contact me today!