Civil partnership formation

A civil partnership is a legally recognised relationship between two people. Once registered, a civil partnership offers the same rights and responsibilities as marriage. Civil partnerships are available to both same-sex couples and opposite-sex couples.

Check if you can form a civil partnership

You can get married or form a civil partnership in England or Wales if you’re:

• 18 or over
• not already married or in a civil partnership
• not closely related

Forming a civil partnership

There are two steps needed to form a civil partnership:

• giving notice of your intention to register
• registering the civil partnership

Giving notice

You and your partner both need to give notice of your intention to register a civil partnership at the Register Office. You must do this in person. You will need to do this even if you are going to register your civil partnership somewhere else

Registering your civil partnership

It is possible to form a civil partnership in the Register Office, or at an approved venue with a licence. To register a civil partnership, you and your partner must sign a civil partnership document in front of two witnesses and a registrar.

There is no need for a ceremony as part of the legal process. If you want to have a ceremony we can offer you a choice to help make the day special.

Converting a civil partnership

Same-sex couples can convert a civil partnership into a marriage in England or Wales.

Make a booking

If you want to make a provisional booking or have any questions, contact us on 01639 760021.