Getting married in Canada is a dream for many couples, and for those visiting the country on a tourist visa, the idea of tying the knot may seem like the perfect opportunity. However, getting married in Canada on a tourist visa entails several legal procedures, requirements, and fees. In this guide, we’ll explore the legalities of getting married in Canada on a tourist visa and provide you with everything you need to know before you say “I do”.

Key Takeaways

• Getting married in Canada on a tourist visa is legal, but it comes with several legal procedures, requirements, and fees.
• Before you get married in Canada, make sure you are eligible to enter the country on a tourist visa, and comply with all the requirements.
• You will need to obtain a marriage license, undergo medical examination, and provide documentation of your legal status and identity.
• It is always a wise idea to have a legal representative, such as a lawyer or notary, to help you with the legal procedures.

Eligibility for Entering Canada on a Tourist Visa

Before you embark on getting married in Canada, it’s crucial to ensure you are eligible to enter the country as a tourist. Visitors to Canada need to have their passport, be in good health, and have enough funds to cover their stay in the country. If you are traveling from a visa-exempt country like the United States, you will not need a visa to enter Canada as a tourist. However, if you are from a country that requires a visa, you will need to obtain a tourist visa before traveling to Canada.

Legal Documentation Required for Getting Married in Canada on a Tourist Visa

To get married in Canada, you must provide legal documentation that includes your identity, marital status, and legal status in Canada. Here are some of the documents you will need to produce:

• Passport or travel document: This will prove your identity and show that you are a tourist in Canada.
• Birth certificate: You will need to provide an original birth certificate that includes the names of your parents.
• Declaration of marital status: This document will prove that you are not legally married and can enter into marriage.
• Marriage License: You can obtain a marriage license from the province where you plan to get married. The license will be valid for a specified time, typically 90 days.
• Medical certificate: It is essential to undergo medical examinations to prove that you are not suffering from any infectious disease.
• Divorce certificate/death certificate: If you have been previously married or widowed, you will need to provide legal documentation for proof.

Legal Fees for Getting Married in Canada on a Tourist Visa

Getting married in Canada on a tourist visa comes with varying legal fees that you must pay before the wedding. Here are some of the fees you might incur:

• Marriage license fee: The cost of obtaining a marriage license ranges from $75 to $150, depending on the province.
• Medical examination fee: Medical examination fees vary depending on the physician, but you can expect to pay around $300 to $500.
• Notary/legal representative fees: Hiring a legal representative, such as a notary or lawyer, to help you with the legal procedures will incur fees.

Hire a Legal Representative

Hiring a legal representative such as a notary or a lawyer, will make your wedding planning easier, faster, and more assured. Legal representatives can advise you on the legal procedures to follow, make necessary applications on your behalf, and handle any paperwork. Make sure to hire someone familiar with Canadian laws and has experience handling marriage cases.

Conclusion

Getting married in Canada on a tourist visa is a wonderful experience, but it requires careful planning and legal compliance. Ensure you are eligible to enter Canada, have the necessary legal documents, and have paid the applicable fees. Additionally, it always helps to have a legal representative guide you through the legal procedures.

FAQs

Can I change my visitor status in Canada after getting married?

Yes, after getting married in Canada, you may be eligible to apply to change your visitor status to a spousal sponsorship or apply to extend your stay in Canada.

Can I renew my marriage license if it expires?

No, you cannot renew an expired marriage license. You must apply for a new one and pay the applicable fee.