Alberta Marriage License Requirements

Prior to the wedding ceremony, couples must obtain an Alberta Marriage License from a Registry in the province of Alberta.  The license is valid for three months from date of issue.

To obtain the marriage license, both the bride and groom must provide: 

• Proof of identification (driver license or passport)  
• Full name and birthplace of father  
• Full name, maiden name and birthplace of mother  
• If divorced - decree absolute  
• If widowed - death certificate of former spouse

A marriage license can be purchased in Banff at the Banff Bureau, 229 Bear Street, (403) 762-2177.  There are no issuing offices in Lake Louise.  

If documentation is in order, it is possible to obtain a marriage license and be married on the same day.  Issuing offices are closed on Sunday.

Persons from out of province can arrange their marriage license in advance through the Banff Bureau.
www.banffbureau.com Email: email@banffbureau.com

Two witnesses of at least 18 years of age are required for the ceremony.  It is not necessary that the witnesses have prior knowledge of the couple being married.  Marriage ceremonies may be conducted with the assistance of an interpreter if the bride or groom do not understand English. 

Marriage Commissioners are appointed by the Alberta Government, but are not salaried employees and are not subsidized.  Fees may vary among commissioners.