Ordering Marriage Certificates and Documents

Alberta Vital Statistics maintains a record (registration) of all marriages that occur in Alberta and can only issue certificate/documents for events that occurred in Alberta. Marriage certificates are issued using the information from the original Registration of Marriage, completed at the time of marriage. If a record cannot be found, a search for a three-year period is carried out automatically and the applicant will be notified.

The appropriate form must be completed and submitted through the authorized registry agent network in Alberta.

Who can apply for marriage documents?

Who can apply for marriage documents?

All records in the custody of Alberta Vital Statistics are confidential. Your information will not be released to just anyone and there are strict guidelines in place governing its release. These guidelines set out who is eligible (pdf) to apply for what information. Depending on the circumstances, a person may be required to show proof that they are eligible to submit the application.

How can I obtain an application?

Alberta Residents - you may print the Application for Certificate/Documents (pdf) 

Non-Alberta Residents - you may print the Application for certificate/documents (pdf)

How do I submit an application? 

Alberta Residents must apply through the Registry Agent Network, either in person or in writing. For additional information about registry agents, please contact:

Edmonton: 780-427-7013
Other Areas (Alberta only): 310-0000, then dial 780-427-7013
Outside Alberta: 780-427-7013
Yellow Pages: under Licensing and Registry Services

Non-Alberta Residents may apply through Registry Connect (pdf).

How much do certificates/documents cost?

In addition to the government fee, registry agents are authorized to charge a service fee.

Alberta Residents - must apply through the Registry Agent Network for the following services and payment details:

  • Certificates/documents
  • Marriage Licenses
  • Legal Change of Name Procedure
  • Genealogical Searches and Search Letters

Non-Alberta Residents - contact Registry Connect (pdf) for the following services and payment details:

  • Certificates/documents
  • Genealogical Searches and Search Letters

How long does it take to process an application?

Once a registry agent or the Vital Statistics office receives an application, it is usually processed within two to three working days.

How will the certificate/document be delivered?

Documents are mailed to the address of the person who is making the application. It is advisable to contact a Registry Agent or  Registry Connect for special arrangements and/or rush services options.

Note: Documents will not be returned C.O.D.

Marriage Commissioner Survey Invitation

Alberta Vital Statistics is continuing to look for ways to improve its marriage commissioner program. As part of this process, a public survey is being conducted.

If your ceremony is being performed (or has recently been performed) by an Alberta marriage commissioner, we would be very interested in hearing about your experiences and opinions after you are married. To participate in our (anonymous) survey, please go to www.ServiceAlberta.ca/survey/MarCom.