As of 10 December 2014, previously civil-partnered couples will have the option to convert their union to marriage.
There are two ways to convert your civil partnership into a marriage:
- A ‘standard conversion’
- A two-stage process followed by a ceremony
Please keep in mind that you may only convert your civil partnership to marriage if you registered it in England and Wales, or overseas in a consulate or armed forces base.
Standard conversion
This is an administrative process where you and your partner go to a register office and complete a form about your civil partnership.
You will need to bring the following documents to the appointment:
- Proof of name and date of birth
- Proof of address
- The original civil partnership certificate
A legal declaration will be drawn up for you to sign.
Two-stage process
This process begins like a standard conversion. You will need to book an appointment at the register office and bring the required documents (see Standard conversion).
Once you have signed the declaration, you can have a ceremony at a venue where same-sex weddings can take place.
Do I need to pay?
Free conversions are available to couples who registered their civil partnership before Saturday 29 March 2014.