Before the wedding · Manitoba
How to get a marriage licence in Manitoba
This page is the free Manitoba guide. No sign-in. Read on, or take the checklist as a PDF.
Facts checked October 2026 · See what changed · How we check
A marriage licence is the paperwork you get before the ceremony (the name change comes after). In Manitoba, here is the fee, how long it lasts, who has to show up, and the age rules.
Informational guide only. Guidepost is not a law firm. This guide explains the typical process and is not legal advice. Requirements can change. Verify current rules with the relevant government authority or a qualified professional before you act.
The essentials
| Where to get it | Registered issuers (Winnipeg and rural locations are listed on the Vital Statistics page). |
|---|---|
| Fee | $100. |
| Validity | Valid 3 months, for Manitoba ceremonies only. Buy it at least 24 hours before the marriage. |
| Who must appear | Both parties must be present. |
| ID | Each person brings valid, unexpired proof of identity, age, and name (documents in, or translated into, English or French). |
| Age & consent | Under the federal Civil Marriage Act, no one under 16 can marry. |
Official source: Manitoba Vital Statistics: Getting married →
Download your free Manitoba marriage-licence checklist
A printable PDF of the essentials and a before-you-go checklist. This checklist does not create any legal document.
Free. General information only, not legal or regulatory advice.
Keep it with the rest. This one files behind tab 10 of the Home File.
Common Questions
How much is a marriage licence in Manitoba?
$100.
How long is a marriage licence valid in Manitoba?
Valid 3 months, for Manitoba ceremonies only. Buy it at least 24 hours before the marriage.
Do we both have to be there to get the licence in Manitoba?
Both parties must be present.
After the wedding
The licence is the before; changing your name and ordering the marriage certificate come after.
Guidepost is not a law firm; this is general information, not legal advice. Fees and rules change and some vary by municipality. Confirm the current details with the official source above. Full disclaimer. Facts checked October 2026.