How to Get Legally Married in NYC Before Your Big Wedding

Planning a larger wedding later but need to make it legal now? Many couples choose to get legally married before their big celebration for practical reasons—whether it's for visas, insurance, travel, or peace of mind.

A signing-only ceremony lets you handle the legal paperwork quickly so you can focus on planning your dream wedding without stress.

Here’s how to get legally married in NYC before your big day—fast, simple, and hassle-free.

Why Get Legally Married Before Your Wedding?

Couples choose a pre-wedding legal signing for many reasons, but these are the most common:

🔹 Destination Weddings – Many countries have complicated marriage laws. A legal NYC signing ensures your marriage is recognized worldwide.

🔹 Visas & Immigration – Need to update your partner’s legal status? A quick signing secures the paperwork before your official wedding.

🔹 Health & Insurance Benefits – Getting legally married early can help with spousal benefits, medical decisions, and financial security.

🔹 Religious or Cultural Weddings – Some religious or symbolic ceremonies aren’t legally binding. A legal signing ensures your marriage is official.

🔹 Wedding Planning Flexibility – Handle the legal side now, then take your time planning the perfect celebration.

🔹 Just Want to Keep It Simple – Some couples prefer to make it official privately before celebrating with family and friends.

💡 Need a fast, legal signing? Check availability for a signing-only officiant here.

How to Get Legally Married in NYC Before Your Wedding

Step 1: Get Your Marriage License Start by applying for your New York City Marriage License at the NYC Clerk’s website. You must wait at least 24 hours before signing.

Step 2: Hire a Signing-Only Wedding Officiant A signing-only officiant will legally marry you with no ceremony required—just the paperwork and signatures to make it official.

💡 Need a signing-only officiant? Check availability here.

Step 3: Bring a Witness New York requires one witness (18+ years old) to be present.

💡 Don’t have a witness? We can provide one for you!

Step 4: Make It Official Meet your officiant, sign the paperwork, and your officiant will file your marriage certificate with the NYC Clerk’s Office.

Where to Have a Quick Marriage Signing in NYC

Since no formal ceremony is needed, you can sign your marriage license anywhere, including:

📍 Coffee Shops – Cozy and casual. 📍 Parks – Central Park, Bryant Park, or DUMBO. 📍 Your Home or Hotel – Private and convenient. 📍 NYC Public Library – A stunning backdrop for a simple signing.

💡 Need recommendations? We’ll suggest the best locations based on your needs.

How Much Does a Pre-Wedding Legal Signing Cost?

A signing-only ceremony is the most affordable way to get legally married in NYC.

💲 Marriage License – $35 (paid to the NYC Clerk). 💲 Signing-Only Officiant – $300 (includes officiant, signing, and legal filing).

✅ Total: $335 – far less than a traditional wedding!

💡 Want a fast, hassle-free experience? Check availability for a signing-only officiant here.

FAQs About Pre-Wedding Legal Signings in NYC

Can I still have my big wedding after getting legally married?

Yes! Most couples do a private legal signing first, then celebrate later with family and friends.

Will my marriage certificate show my big wedding date?

No—your official marriage certificate will show the legal signing date.

What if we don’t have a witness?

We can provide a professional wedding witness if needed!

Do we need to say vows for a legal signing?

No formal vows are required—just a confirmation that you’re marrying each other.

Final Thoughts: A Simple, Stress-Free Way to Make It Legal

If you need to get legally married before your big wedding, a signing-only ceremony is the fastest, easiest way to do it. You’ll have peace of mind knowing the legal part is handled—so you can focus on planning your dream wedding!

🔹 Need an officiant? Check availability for a signing-only officiant here. 🔹 Need a witness? We’ve got you covered.

💡 Prefer a simple courthouse ceremony instead? Many couples opt to elope at NYC’s City Clerk’s Office, where an in-house officiant can marry you in minutes. Learn how to get married at NYC City Hall.