Who can Marry in Australia?

Parties to a marriage do not have to be an Australian citizen or permanent resident of Australia to legally marry in Australia.

All celebrants should recommend that foreign nationals check with authorities in their own countries prior to entering into a marriage in Australia. Some overseas countries do not recognise a marriage entered into in Australia as valid, unless other requirements, such as the prior granting of permission from that country’s embassy, are fulfilled. This can have implications for foreign nationals who intend to return to their country following a marriage.

In cases where a marriage involves an Australian citizen and a foreign citizen, celebrants should recommend that parties obtain advice about immigration issues from the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent. Details of registered migration agents can be found on the Migration Agents Registration Authority website.