Complete Guide to Civil Marriage

In Quebec, a civil marriage is celebrated in front of an officiant authorized by law, and it is the ceremony that produces legal effects. A religious ceremony is a separate matter: it may be held in addition, but it is not required to be legally recognized as long as the celebrant is authorized to solemnize marriages.

The law allows several kinds of officiants.

• Notaries
• Clerks and deputy clerks of the Superior Court
• Mayors and members of municipal councils
• Municipal officers designated by the Minister of Justice
• A relative or friend who obtains a one-time authorization

At the first meeting, each future spouse generally provides valid identification and an original birth certificate. If a spouse was previously married or in a civil union, documents showing how it ended are also requested. A witness of legal age who knows both spouses signs the notice of marriage.

Before the ceremony, a notice of marriage is published in the register kept for this purpose. The law sets a waiting period between publication and the ceremony, so it is wise to open your file well in advance.

Two witnesses of legal age attend the ceremony and sign the record. Choose people who will be present on the day and who have valid identification.

The officiant verifies the identity of the spouses, reads the legal provisions on the rights and duties of spouses, receives their consent and declares them married. The ceremony can be personalized with words from the couple and their guests.

Spouses may choose how their property is treated during the marriage by signing a contract before the wedding. If they do not, the default regime applies. A notary can explain the choices and prepare the contract.

The record of the marriage is sent to the registrar of civil status so that the marriage is registered and a certificate can be obtained.