How Much Does It Cost to Get Married at Toronto City Hall?
Getting married is one of the most exciting events in life, and for many couples in Toronto, City Hall offers a simple and affordable way to say “I do.” Whether you’re planning a small, intimate ceremony or simply looking for a legal way to tie the knot, Toronto City Hall provides an efficient, budget-friendly option. But how much does it actually cost to get married at Toronto City Hall? Here’s a breakdown of the costs and everything you need to know before booking your ceremony as of November of 2024.
Marriage License Fee
Before you can get married at Toronto City Hall, you first need to obtain a marriage license. The cost of a marriage license in Toronto is $160, and it can be purchased at any city hall location in the city. This license is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance, so make sure to plan your wedding accordingly.
Required Documents for a Marriage License
To obtain a marriage license in Toronto, both parties must be present and provide the following documents:
- Proof of identity (e.g., passport, driver’s license)
- Proof of Canadian citizenship or permanent residency (e.g., passport, birth certificate)
- If either party has been previously married, proof of divorce or spouse’s death certificate.
It’s important to note that there is no waiting period in Ontario, so you can get married as soon as you have your marriage license.
Marriage Ceremony Fee at Toronto City Hall
Once you have your marriage license, you can schedule your wedding ceremony at Toronto City Hall. The cost for a civil marriage ceremony at City Hall is $325.00. This fee includes:
- A 15-minute ceremony conducted by a licensed officiant.
- The use of a designated wedding chamber at Toronto City Hall. The Wedding Chambers is on the 3rd floor in the East tower of Toronto City Hall.
The ceremony can be conducted with a maximum of two witnesses.
TIP: By law, you must provide two witnesses for your ceremony. Your witnesses can be family, friends or acquaintances. They do not need to be Canadian residents or citizens to be your witnesses.
What if the couple or the witnesses do not speak English? Someone must be present at the ceremony who can translate and it must be someone other than one of the persons being married.
Additional Options for Your Ceremony
Couples can also choose to add extra services to their ceremony for an additional fee, such as:
- Additional time: If you’d like a longer ceremony or more personalized vows, additional time may be available for an extra cost.
- Photography services: While there is no wedding photography service provided by Toronto City Hall, you can bring your photographer to capture the moment. Some couples also opt for professional photographers who specialize in City Hall weddings.
When is the Best Time to Get Married at Toronto City Hall?
Toronto City Hall offers marriage ceremonies on weekdays (Monday to Friday), and there are typically a limited number of appointments available each day. The most popular times for weddings are mid-morning and early afternoon, so it’s advisable to book your ceremony well in advance to ensure availability. Additionally, Toronto City Hall may offer extra services during peak wedding seasons, such as special wedding packages or extended hours.
How to Book Your Toronto City Hall Wedding
Booking your marriage ceremony at Toronto City Hall is relatively simple:
Final Thoughts on Getting Married at Toronto City Hall
Toronto City Hall offers a straightforward and cost-effective option for couples looking to get married. With a $160 marriage license fee and a $325.00 ceremony fee, it’s one of the most affordable ways to get married in the city while still having a beautiful and official wedding. Whether you’re looking for a quick and intimate ceremony or simply prefer the simplicity of a civil ceremony, Toronto City Hall is a fantastic choice for many couples.
By following the simple steps outlined above, you can easily plan your wedding at Toronto City Hall without breaking the bank. Make sure to book early, and you’ll be on your way to a stress-free and memorable wedding day!
Key Takeaways:
- Marriage License Fee: $160
- Marriage Ceremony Fee: $325
- Wedding Photographer: From $500 + HST
Getting married at Toronto City Hall is a simple, affordable, and memorable way to start your life together, no matter your style or budget.