A complete guide for LGBTQ+ foreigners getting married in Australia. Learn legal requirements, visas, timelines, and how to plan your same-sex wedding.
Introduction
Australia is one of the most welcoming places in the world for LGBTQ+ couples to get married. Since the legalisation of same-sex marriage in 2017, couples from all over the world have chosen Australia as their wedding destination.
If you’re a foreign couple planning to marry here, the process is surprisingly straightforward – but there are a few legal steps you need to get right.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know.
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Is Same-Sex Marriage Legal in Australia?
Yes. Same-sex marriage has been legal in Australia since December 2017 under the Marriage Act 1961.
- LGBTQ+ couples have exactly the same rights as heterosexual couples
- Your marriage is legally recognised across Australia
- Recognition overseas depends on your home country
Can Foreigners Get Married in Australia?
Yes – you do not need to be an Australian citizen or resident.
You can:
- Get married on a tourist visa
- Get married while visiting Australia short-term
- Plan a destination wedding
There is no residency requirement
Legal Requirements to Get Married
To legally marry in Australia, you must:
1. Lodge a Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM)
- Must be submitted to the celebrant at least 1 month before the wedding
- Valid for up to 18 months
- Can be signed and witnessed overseas
2. Provide identity documents
Typically:
- Passport (for both partners)
- Or birth certificate (if available) and driver’s licence
- Divorce/death certificates (if previously married)
3. Use an authorised celebrant
You must be married by a registered Australian celebrant (like me 👋)
4. Have two witnesses
- Over 18 years old
- Can be friends, family, or I can provide them if you need me to
What does an LGBTQ+ wedding ceremony look like?
The short answer: anything you want it to be.
There’s no “gay wedding template” – your ceremony can be:
- Romantic and traditional
- Fun and non-traditional
- Deeply personal and story-driven
As a queer celebrant, I specialise in:
- Inclusive language
- Non-gendered ceremony structures
- Custom vows and storytelling
Is your marriage recognised overseas?
This depends on your home country.
- Countries that recognise same-sex marriage: Yes
- Countries that don’t: May not recognise it legall
Always check with a migration lawyer if this matters for visas or legal rights.
Can you get married on a tourist visa?
Yes, many couples do exactly this.
Important notes:
- Getting married does not automatically grant residency
- You may still need to apply for a partner visa separately
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Why choose Australia for your LGBTQ+ wedding?
- Safe and inclusive environment
- Simple process to get married
- Legally recognised marriage equality
- Stunning wedding locations (Melbourne, Daylesford, Yarra Valley)
- Experienced LGBTQ+ celebrants
How I can help
Planning a wedding from overseas can feel overwhelming — but that’s where I come in.
I help couples:
- Navigate legal requirements
- Create meaningful, inclusive ceremonies
- Plan weddings that reflect who they truly are
If you’re planning a wedding in Melbourne or Victoria, I’d love to chat.
Quick FAQs
Q. Do we need to live in Australia to get married?
No — there is no residency requirement.
Q. Can we submit the NOIM from overseas?
Yes, it can be witnessed outside Australia and then emailed to your celebrant in Australia.
Q. How long does the process take?
Minimum 1 month; ideally, allow 2–3 months.
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