If you have been married or have entered into a civil partnership before

If either of you has been married or entered into a civil partnership before, either in the UK or abroad, you will need to provide proof that you are free to marry.

If you have been divorced in England or Wales

You will need to provide the original court-stamped decree absolute or dissolution. This must be a paper copy. If the name on this document is different from the name on your other documentation, you will also need to provide a linking document, such as a previous marriage certificate.

If you have been divorced abroad

You will need to provide an English translation of the original divorce documents issued by that country. If no documents were issued, the register office will tell you what other forms of proof are acceptable.

If you are widowed

You will need to provide a certified copy of your partner's death certificate.

If you have already married each other abroad

You will only need to marry again in the UK if you are not sure whether your foreign marriage is legal.

If you are under eighteen

You will need to provide proof that your parents agree to the marriage. If your parents are divorced, you may also need to provide the custodial court order. Please speak to the register office for more information.

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