Excerpts from the B.C. Vital Statistics Agency website:
Eligibility Requirements to Marry in British Columbia
You do not have to be a resident of British Columbia to be married in the province. However, you are required to obtain a Marriage Licence which is valid only in British Columbia for a three month period.
Anyone over 19 years of age is eligible to apply for a marriage licence in British Columbia. Anyone under 19 years of age must first obtain the consent of both parents.
If one or both of the individuals getting married were recently divorced, no licence will be issued until a divorce has been finalized and proof provided. This will normally occur 31 days after the divorce decree is issued by the Courts.
Under British Columbia legislation, blood tests are not required to get married.
Applying for a Marriage Licence
Only one member of the couple is required to apply in person for a marriage licence. Click here for locations of Marriage Licence Issuers.
The current fee for a Marriage Licence is $100.00 and must be paid at the time of application. To ensure accuracy of marriage certificates issued after registration and to verify legal age to apply for a marriage licence, primary identification in the form of a Birth Certificate, IMM/Immigration form, Permanent Resident or Citizenship card confirming 1) full legal names 2) birth date 3) place of birth should be provided for both parties. You will also be asked to provide information on your current marital status and address.
In exceptional circumstances, other documents may be accepted, such as a drivers licence or passport.
The Marriage Licence is issued at the time of application, is non-refundable, and may not be extended beyond three months. However, if a Marriage License is lost a replacement may be obtained from the original place of purchase.
Arranging the Marriage Ceremony
In British Columbia, couples can choose a religious or civil ceremony, which must be witnessed by two people.
Couples are responsible for securing a location and the necessary witnesses for their ceremony including obtaining any permits or licences for the use of public or private facilities.