Changing your civil partnership into a marriage
Couples in a civil partnership registered in Scotland
You may change their civil partnership to a marriage in Scotland if they wish:
- by an administrative route
- by a marriage ceremony
The administrative route will not require the couple to give notice. Contact the registration office for advice.
Couples in a civil partnership registered outside of Scotland
If you are in a civil partnership registered outside Scotland, you can choose to convert it into a marriage here you must have a ceremony.
Some countries may refer to civil partnerships by other names, such as “registered partnership” or “civil union”. In Scotland, these are regarded as civil partnerships if they meet certain criteria.
Before proceeding, you may wish to seek independent legal advice. This is especially important if you live outside Scotland or plan to move abroad, as not all countries will recognise your marriage.
What you need to do
To convert your civil partnership into a marriage in Scotland by a ceremony, you must:
- choose a civil or religious or belief ceremony
- give notice of your intention to marry
- wait at least 28 clear days (the marriage notice period)
- meet the legal requirements for marriage in Scotland (for example, not being closely related)
- pay the same fees as for any other marriage
You must also provide your civil partnership certificate or equivalent proof to the registrar.
What happens after marriage
Once you are married:
- your civil partnership will end under Scottish law
- you will be legally married from the later of your civil partnership registration date or 5 December 2005
Considerations
Your marriage may not be recognised in your home country or elsewhere. This could affect:
- your legal status
- property rights
- inheritance
- pensions
- parental rights
You may need to seek legal advice in another country to clarify your status. If you later divorce or dissolve the relationship, there may be legal complications, especially if the marriage isn't recognised abroad.
Learn more
For further information, visit:
Local registrars can assist with this process.