How to register a marriage
This quickest way to register a marriage is by using our online eRegistry portal.
Once you have registered, you can use the portal to:
- attach scanned copies of marriage documents direct to eRegistry, rather than sending by post
- enter the couple's details once and easily print all required documentation direct from the portal
- order official marriage certificates at the same time, for faster delivery.
Register by post
If you are not registered for eRegistry, you can register marriages by post. Send the marriage documents to:
NSW Registry of Births Deaths & Marriages
GPO Box 30
SYDNEY NSW 2001
You do not need to email us the marriage documents if you are registering by post.
Checklist for marriage documents
Ensure you have the right documents for registering your couple's marriage with our simple checklist.
Common questions about registering a marriage
How do I apply for a marriage certificate on behalf of a couple
Celebrants may apply for certificates on behalf of the couple after they perform the ceremony. This must be done within two months from the date of the ceremony and two months from the date of submission in eRegistry.
To apply for a marriage certificate:
- order online when using eRegistry online portal
- mail the application form and fee to the Registry along with marriage paperwork to be lodged for registration.
Do I need to post the marriage documents to the Registry
If you are submitting the marriage registration via eRegistry, you do not need to post the marriage documents to us. The documents must be scanned and attached to the notification in eRegistry prior to being submitted online.
If you submit the record before you add the documents, or you cannot attach them, you must post or email the documents to us.
How do I correct an error after submitting the marriage registration
As the celebrant, you can request a correction on behalf of the couple within two months of the marriage registration.
If you notice an error after the registration is submitted and before the marriage certificate has been ordered, you’ll need to complete the Correct an Entry form.
The form has step-by-step instructions and can submitted by post or at a Service NSW Centre.
The amendments team will review your request. For current processing times, please check our website.
How do I correct an error after the couple has received their marriage certificate
As the celebrant, you can request a correction on behalf of the couple within two months of the marriage registration.
If it's within this two-month window, complete the Correct an Entry form and submit it by post or at a Service NSW Centre.
If more than two months have passed, or if the couple prefers to handle the correction themselves, they will need to follow the same steps themselves.
The original, incorrect marriage certificate will need to be returned with the application.
The amendments team will process the request. For current processing times, please check our website.
I have ordered the marriage certificate, but the couple has not received it. Can I check the status
For current processing times, please check our website.
If you've ordered a marriage certificate but the couple hasn't received it, you can track delivery using the ‘Certificate Tracker’ in eRegistry. This will show the Australia Post tracking number if the certificate has been posted.
The certificate is sent by Registered Post and must be signed for upon delivery. To avoid delays, double-check the postal address when ordering the certificate for the couple.
I need advice on the Marriage Act 1961
The Registry cannot provide marriage celebrants with advice on application of the Marriage Act 1961.
For information on your responsibilities as a Commonwealth-registered marriage celebrant, please visit the Attorney General's department.
Contact information
BDM Marriage and Relationships team
For marriage registrations, and post ceremony registration queries, email* bdm-online-celebrants@customerservice.nsw.gov.au. Allow 20 business days for a response.
*This inbox is not for Correct an Entry requests, please refer common questions above for information about how to request a correction.
Marriage stationery
To purchase marriage Registers and Form 15 Certificate of Marriage:
- Website: CanPrint
- Email: marriage@infoservices.com.au
- Phone: 1300 656 863 [toll free number]