Are You Irish and Getting Married in Australia?
Photo Credit - Michelle Pragt
Getting married is a big step. Getting married on the other side of the world adds another layer of excitement, logistics and emotion especially if you’re Irish and planning a wedding in Australia.
It will come as no surprise that as an Irish Celebrant living in Melbourne, I have conducted many wedding ceremonies where either one or both parties are Irish.
Whether you’ve moved here permanently, are here on a visa or simply fell in love with Australia’s lifestyle, beaches and open spaces, the good news is getting married in Australia is much more straightforward than you might think.
Photo Credits
K Brew Photography. All My Wednesdays Weddings by Heston
From legal requirements to choosing the right celebrant to finding someone who gets your story, here’s everything you need to know if you’re Irish and getting married in Australia.
Photo Credit - Lensure Weddings
Can Irish Citizens Get Married in Australia?
Absolutely!
Australia does not require you to be a citizen or permanent resident to legally marry here. Irish citizens are welcome to marry in Australia whether you’re on a tourist visa, working visa, student visa or partner visa.
As long as you meet Australia’s legal marriage requirements, your marriage will be fully legal.
Legal Requirements for Getting Married in Australia
While Australia is relaxed in many ways, there are a few important legal steps you’ll need to follow.
1. Lodge a Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM)
You must lodge a Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) at least one month before your wedding date.
Many celebrants in Australia regularly work with international couples and will guide you through this process step by step.
2. Provide Identification
As an Irish citizen, you’ll usually need:
Your passport
Proof of the end of any previous marriage (if relevant)
3. Choose an Authorised Celebrant
Your marriage must be solemnised by a registered celebrant.
This is where choosing the right celebrant makes all the difference, especially if you want your Irish heritage reflected in the ceremony. I happen to know a celebrant who may be able to help with this!!! For many Irish couples, having a celebrant who understands their background helps the ceremony feel deeply personal rather than generic.
Photo Credit - Turbo Productions
Photo Credit Na Lia Weddings
Photo Credit Rick Liston Photography & Iphone photos
What About Marriage Recognition in Ireland?
A marriage that is legally performed in Australia is generally recognised in Ireland.
You don’t need to re-marry or register again, but you may need:
An official Australian marriage certificate
To register it for certain legal or administrative purposes in Ireland
Your celebrant can explain what documents you’ll receive and how to use them later if needed.
Photo Credit Na Lia Photography
With the right celebrant, a clear understanding of the legal process and space to honour where you come from, your wedding can be the perfect blend of Irish and Australian cultures.
I would love to chat with you further, if you would like to explore having an Irish Celebrant at your wedding.
Above are just a small selection of photos of some of the wonderful couples I’ve had the honour of standing alongside as an Irish celebrant, where one or both partners are from Ireland.