The civil steps every couple getting married in Ireland has to complete, in order. Civil registration runs through the HSE, with notice given in person at least three months ahead.
General guidance, not legal advice — confirm specifics with your local HSE Civil Registration Service.
About 14 weeks before the wedding
You'll both need photo ID (a passport is easiest), your PPS numbers, and proof of address. If either of you was previously married or in a civil partnership, you'll also need the decree absolute or dissolution — or a death certificate if widowed.
About 14 weeks before the wedding
Both of you must attend in person at any HSE Civil Registration Service office. Appointments can book out weeks in advance, so don't leave this until the last minute.
About 13 weeks before the wedding
Irish law requires at least 3 months' notice before your wedding date, given in person by both of you. There are no exceptions to this without a court order — miss it, and your date may not be legally possible. We recommend giving notice around 6 months out rather than cutting it to the legal minimum — HSE appointment slots book out weeks in advance, and any paperwork issue on the day could push you past the cutoff.
About 13 weeks before the wedding
A statutory fee (€200 as of writing) is paid to the registrar at your notification meeting, at the same time you give notice.
About 12 weeks before the wedding
Once your notice period is processed, the registrar issues your MRF. It's valid for 6 months from your notification date — your wedding must happen within that window.
About 9 weeks before the wedding
Whoever conducts your ceremony — priest, celebrant, or registrar — must be on the State's Register of Solemnisers. Give them your MRF before the ceremony; they can't marry you without it.
Check the official Register of SolemnisersWithin about 4 weeks after the wedding
After the wedding, your solemniser signs the MRF. You (or they) must return it to any Registrar's office within 1 month to legally register the marriage.