Overseas Visitors

Yes, you can get married in Melbourne even if you live overseas.

You do not need to be an Australian citizen or resident. The usual eligibility rules for who can get married in Melbourne still apply.

If you are already legally married overseas and only need to understand whether that marriage is recognised here, start with the overseas marriages guide instead.

The main things to know

• you still need a NOIM
• you still need the one-month notice period unless a shortening of time is approved
• you still need proof of date and place of birth and photo ID
• you still need to be physically present in Australia for the marriage itself, because you cannot get legally married online

Can the NOIM be done from overseas?

Yes.

You can prepare the form with NOIM Easy, but it still needs to be witnessed correctly for your location.

If you sign outside Australia, the authorised witness must also be outside Australia.

Do we need a single status certificate?

Usually, no. Australian marriage law does not normally require a single status certificate.

What matters is that you can prove who you are and, if relevant, prove how any previous marriage ended.

If a previous marriage has ended, the marriage after divorce guide explains the timing and paperwork checks.

What about documents that are not in English?

You will usually need NAATI-certified translations.

Practical advice for overseas couples

Start early with:

• the NOIM
• passport and birth documents
• any divorce documents
• translations
• travel planning

Helpful links

• NOIM guide
• Prospective marriage visa support
• Fiancé visa letter
• Translation and interpreters
• ID requirements
• Get married quickly