Document Translations to Give Notice of Marriage

When giving notice to marry in the UK, you may be asked to provide translated documents to confirm your identity, marital status, and eligibility. This usually applies if one of you is a foreign national or if your documents were issued outside the UK. Any documents not in English must be professionally translated and certified before they can be accepted by the registrar.

To be accepted by the registrar, each translated document must come with:

• A statement confirming that the translation is a true and complete representation of the original document.
• An official stamp and signature from the translator or translation agency.
• The translator’s full name, contact details, and qualifications.
• The date the translation was completed.

Documents That Often Require Translation

The following documents are commonly required and will need certified translation if originally issued in another language:

• Proof of identity – Passport, national ID card, deed poll, or other legal documentation for name changes
• Proof of age – Birth certificate or passport
• Marital status confirmation – Divorce certificate (if previously married) or death certificate (if widowed)
• Immigration status – Any relevant paperwork requested by the registrar
• Proof of address – Utility bills, bank statements, council tax statement, or tenancy agreement