How to Get a Marriage Certificate in WA: Step-by-Step Guide
Everything you need to know after the confetti settles.
So—you’re officially hitched (congrats!), but now you’re wondering, “How do I get a marriage certificate?” or “How much does a wedding certificate cost?”
Let’s clear up the confusion. When it comes to marriage certificates in Western Australia, there are two types—and they serve very different purposes.
The ceremonial certificate is the pretty one you sign at your wedding. It’s lovely, it’s Insta-worthy, but it’s not a legal document.
The official marriage certificate? That’s the one you’ll need when it’s time to change your name, apply for a visa, update legal records, or prove your marriage for any official reason.
Here’s everything you need to know about how to apply for a marriage certificate in WA, what it costs, and what to do if yours goes MIA.
What Is a Marriage Certificate & Why Do You Need It?
The official marriage certificate is your legal proof of marriage, issued by the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages in your state—in this case, WA. It’s an essential document if you plan to:
Change your surname on your driver’s licence, passport, or bank accounts
Apply for a visa or citizenship
Set up joint accounts or insurance
Provide legal proof of your relationship
Basically, if it involves paperwork or identity verification, you’ll probably need this certificate.
Who Issues the Marriage Certificate?
In Western Australia, Births, Deaths and Marriages (BDM WA) is the official government authority that registers your marriage and issues the certificate.
Once your celebrant has submitted all your signed wedding documents (usually within 14 days of your ceremony), BDM registers your marriage—and only then can the official certificate be issued.
Important note: Celebrants don’t provide the legal certificate—they handle the legal paperwork for you, but it’s the couple’s job to apply for the official certificate through BDM.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Marriage Certificate
So, how do you get a marriage certificate in Perth or anywhere in WA? Here's a simple step-by-step breakdown:
Step 1: Get married (tick!)
Your celebrant will take care of the legal paperwork on the day and lodge it with BDM WA.
Step 2: Wait for registration
It usually takes BDM around 2–3 weeks to process and register your marriage. Your celebrant can’t control this part—once it’s lodged, it’s in the system!
Step 3: Apply for your certificate
Once your marriage is registered, you (or your partner) can apply for your official certificate online through the BDM WA website.
You’ll need to provide:
Proof of identity for both partners
Details of your wedding
Payment for the certificate
There’s usually an option to have it posted to you or to collect it in person, depending on processing times.
How Much Does a Marriage Certificate Cost?
Wondering how much is a marriage certificate in WA? Here’s what you can expect:
Standard marriage certificate: $53
Urgent (priority) certificate: $75
There may be additional postage or collection fees depending on how you request it. These fees are current as of 2025 but always check the BDM WA website for the most up-to-date costs.
These costs are not included in your celebrant's fee—this is a separate government charge you’ll pay directly to BDM WA.
How Long Does It Take to Receive the Certificate?
BDM WA offers two processing options:
Standard processing: Usually takes 2–3 weeks after your marriage is registered (plus postage time)
Priority processing: Fast-tracked within 2–3 working days, ideal if you need the certificate urgently for travel, visas, or name changes
If you’re planning an overseas honeymoon or need your marriage certificate for a visa application, it’s worth opting for the priority service to save time and stress.
What If I Lose My Marriage Certificate?
Misplaced your certificate in the post-wedding chaos? Don’t panic—you can order a replacement marriage certificate at any time through BDM WA.
You’ll need:
Your marriage details (date, location, full names)
Proof of identity
Payment for a new certificate
The cost for a replacement is the same as the standard fee (currently $53). It’s a good idea to store your original certificate somewhere safe, or even order an extra copy just in case.
Still unsure or have questions about the paperwork?
As your celebrant, I’m here to help make it all a breeze. I’ll make sure your documents are submitted correctly, explain the process, and support you through every step—from “Will you marry us?” to “How do we get our wedding certificate?”
Need a celebrant who knows the ins and outs of WA’s marriage laws and keeps things simple?
Let’s chat about making your wedding day (and everything after it) stress-free. Get in touch here!
