Overseas Marriages and Australian Recognition

Many marriages legally performed overseas are recognised in Australia, but the details depend on whether the marriage was valid where it took place and whether it would also be recognised under Australian law.

Common Starting Points

An overseas marriage is more likely to be recognised if:

• it was legally valid in the country where it took place
• both parties were legally free to marry
• the relationship would not be prohibited under Australian law

Documents People Commonly Need

You may need:

• the overseas marriage certificate
• an English translation if it is not in English
• identification documents

Adelaide Relevance

If you are already married overseas, you usually do not need a new Adelaide marriage ceremony. If you are planning an overseas celebration but want the legal marriage here, read destination wedding legalities.