Get a civil union licence

Before you get a civil union, you need to apply for a licence. A licence confirms it’s legal for you to have a civil union. It costs $150.

What you need to know

A civil union is a legal relationship between two people, regardless of gender. Some countries outside New Zealand do not recognise civil unions. You may want to get independent legal advice before you decide to have a civil union.

  • You need to arrange your licence at least 3 working days before you have a civil union. This expires after 3 months.
  • The ceremony is an additional cost which depends on the kind of ceremony you have.
  • Only one of you needs to complete the application, but you need information about both of you.

Apply

Apply using the paper form

If you arrive in NZ less than 3 working days before the ceremony

Cost

Personalised ceremony

The licence costs $150.

Celebrants set their own fees, on top of the cost of the licence.

Who can get it

Most people can get a civil union licence. Same-sex civil unions are legal in NZ.

You do not need to be an NZ citizen. Visitors to NZ can marry or have a civil union here.

Who cannot legally have a civil union

If you’re 16 or 17

What happens after you apply for a licence

If you’re using celebrant

You will be sent the licence, and 2 copies of the “Copy of particulars of civil union” — a form with all the details of the people getting the civil union.

Give all 3 of these documents to your celebrant before your ceremony.

Tip: If you have a back-up venue, include this in your application. You can only have your ceremony in the venues you have included in the application.

Who to contact for more help

If you need more help or have questions about the information or services on this page, contact the following agency.

Utility links and page information

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