Qualifying Connection
You must have a `qualifying connection' with the parish in which you wish to marry.
You may need to furnish documentary evidence of your qualifying connection when you meet the vicar to book your wedding.
If you cannot demonstrate a qualifying connection you could create one simply by attending your chosen church’s usual services at least once a month for six consecutive months. If you decide to do this, leave enough time after your attendance for the banns to be read before your wedding too – about another two months should be enough.
You have a Qualifying Connection if either of you:
- has at any time lived in the parish for a period of at least 6 months or
- was baptised (christened) in the parish concerned or
- was prepared for confirmation in the parish or
- has at any time regularly gone to normal church services in the parish church for a period of at least 6 months
or if one of your parents, after you were born:
- has lived in the parish for a period of at least 6 months or
- has regularly gone to normal church services in the parish church for a period of at least 6 months
or if one of your parents or grandparents:
- was married in the parish
Return to Getting Married