Converting Civil Partnerships to Marriages





Civil partnerships have been legal in the UK since 2005 but had declined in popularity following the introduction of same-sex marriage.

They're currently only available to same-sex couples.

The Government is considering scrapping them entirely.




Couples with a civil partnership do have the option to “convert” their partnership into a marriage.

Whether a couple chooses to convert or not is a decision that should be made based on personal preference.  Civil partnerships should not be seen as marriage-lite although, to many couples, there's something about being 'married' that makes it all feel a little more official. 


If a couple is looking to convert to marriage, then we'd recommend visiting the Government's website for up-to-date information and locations of registry offices and the associated costs. 

  • This is done either at a registry office or at a venue licensed for same-sex marriage. 
  • Some couples just want the certificate but others might like to hold a ceremony and make an occasion of it.
  • You’ll need your civil partnership certificate and identification. You’ll have to sign a Conversion into Marriage declaration with the registrar, too.
  • The certificate will be dated from the day of the original civil partnership.
  • If couples don't want a ceremony, they'll pay £45 to convert the civil partnership and then a further £4 for the marriage certificate. Additional fees are applied if they choose a ceremony, too. 





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