Convert a civil partnership into marriage
Convert a civil partnership into marriage
If you are in a civil partnership, you may be able to convert this to a marriage. These conversions are only available to same-sex couples, opposite sex couples cannot convert a civil partnership to a marriage in England or Wales.
There are different places where you can convert your same-sex civil partnership into a marriage:
- a register office
- an approved premise
- some religious buildings registered for same sex marriages
You’ll get a marriage certificate, dated when your civil partnership was formed.
How much does it cost?
- £12.50 for each marriage certificate you request from the Registrar.
- £50 to convert your civil partnership in a ‘one-stage’ procedure. This is completed in an appointment with the Registrar and does not include a ceremony.
- £131 to convert your civil partnership in a ‘two-stage’ procedure. This includes an appointment with the Registrar and a ceremony.
Additional fees may apply depending upon the venue chosen for the two-part procedure route.
How to arrange
You’ll need to sign a ‘conversion into marriage’ declaration.
You’ll need to make an appointment with the Registrar, please complete this online form to request an appointment https://www.rotherham.gov.uk/xfp/form/1241
You’ll need your original civil partnership certificate and your ID - ask the register office what ID to provide.
Converting with a ceremony
Contact a registered venue to book a date for your ceremony.
You’ll also be able to have the ceremony at venues where same-sex couples can get married, for example:
- religious buildings registered for the marriage of same-sex couples
- premises where a ceremony according to the Jewish faith or the Society of Friends will follow immediately after the conversion.
You can discuss the wording you want during your ceremony with the person conducting it. Your friends and family can attend but you do not need witnesses.
You and your partner must sign a ‘conversion into marriage’ declaration. The Superintendent Registrar must be in attendance and sign the declaration. You can include up to 4 parents each on the declaration (for example mothers, fathers, stepparents or adoptive parents).
Can I do this in Scotland, Northern Ireland or Abroad?
The government website provides more information on this here Convert your civil partnership to a marriage