How to Get Married Online in Minnesota (Step-by-Step Guide)

Planning a wedding in Minnesota is like picking your favorite flavor of ice cream—there are so many options that each has its charm. Whether you dream of saying "I do" in the iconic Split Rock Lighthouse on the North Shore, where the waves of Lake Superior crash below, or in the lush greenery of Minnehaha Falls Park in Minneapolis, Minnesota offers a backdrop as stunning as your love story.

But what if you could tie the knot without leaving the comfort of your own home? Imagine an intimate online ceremony from a cozy cabin in the Boundary Waters or even from your living room with a virtual view of the Mississippi River Bluffs. No matter the setting, Minnesota makes it possible to get married in person or online, combining natural beauty with modern convenience.

In-Person Wedding Requirements in Minnesota

To apply for a marriage license, both partners must visit a county registrar’s office in person. You’ll need to present valid identification and complete the necessary paperwork. If one partner is unable to attend in person, an affidavit is required to proceed.

There is a mandatory waiting period of five days from the application date before the marriage license becomes valid. Once issued, the license remains valid for six months, providing ample time to arrange your wedding.

For the ceremony, the officiant must be someone legally authorized to perform marriages in Minnesota. This could be a religious figure, a judge, or even a friend who has been temporarily authorized to officiate.

After the wedding, the officiant is responsible for signing the marriage certificate and submitting it to the county office. This step is essential for the marriage to be legally recognized.

Apply for a Marriage License Online in Minnesota

Getting married in Minnesota starts with securing a marriage license, and the process has been made more convenient with online applications. Here's exactly what you need to know to get started.

1. Start with the Online Application: Minnesota allows you to begin the marriage license application process online. You can complete the application through the Minnesota Official Marriage System (MOMS). This will save you time before you visit the county office in person to finalize the process.
2. Visit the County Office: After submitting your application online, both you and your partner must visit a county registrar's office to complete the process. Make sure to bring valid identification, as both parties need to verify their information in person before the license can be issued.
3. Pay the Application Fee: The fee for a marriage license in Minnesota varies by county but typically ranges between $35 and $150. This fee is usually paid at the time of your in-person visit to the county office.
4. Waiting Period and Validity: There is no waiting period in Minnesota, so your license will be valid immediately upon issuance. Once issued, the license is valid for six months, giving you ample time to plan your wedding.

Difference Between an Online Marriage License and an Online Marriage

An online marriage license and an online marriage are two distinct processes. An online marriage license is merely the document that grants legal permission for a couple to wed. Some states permit couples to apply for and receive this license through an online application, streamlining the paperwork process. However, even with an online marriage license, the actual wedding ceremony must still take place in person, following the state's regulations and requirements.

On the other hand, an online marriage, such as those facilitated by services like Courtly, allows the entire marriage process to be completed online. This means that both the legal paperwork and the wedding ceremony can be conducted virtually, providing a convenient and modern alternative to traditional in-person weddings.

Why Choose to Get Married Online in Minnesota?

Choosing to get married online in Minnesota offers several advantages that can make the process smoother and more convenient.

• Convenience: Opting for an online marriage application allows you to begin the process from the comfort of your home. This is particularly useful for couples with busy schedules or those planning a wedding on short notice. The ease of accessing and completing the application online can significantly reduce stress.
• Time-Saving: Applying for a marriage license online eliminates the need for trips to the county office, saving you valuable time. This is beneficial if you're juggling multiple tasks, such as coordinating with vendors or managing out-of-town guests, as it streamlines the process and minimizes travel.
• Flexibility: The online application process provides flexibility in scheduling. Whether you are managing work commitments or organizing your wedding from another state, you can complete the application at a time that best fits your needs. This flexibility can make the planning process more manageable.
• Legal Recognition and Validity: Marriages conducted online in Minnesota are legally recognized and carry the same validity as traditional ceremonies. You will receive an official marriage certificate that is accepted both within Minnesota and across the United States, ensuring your marriage is legally formalized without any issues.

Courtly: Simplifying the Online Marriage Process in Minnesota

Courtly provides an easy and convenient way for couples to get married online. The platform allows you to complete the entire process remotely, without the hassle of dealing with excessive paperwork. With Courtly's streamlined system, couples can quickly secure a valid U.S. marriage certificate.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Married Online in Minnesota with Courtly

1. Sign Up

Start by creating an account on Courtly. Click on the "Get Married" button in the top right corner of the site and follow the instructions. Once your account is active, you'll have full access to the platform.

2. Select Ceremony Details

Choose the ceremony format, venue, and style that best suits your preferences. Courtly will connect you with a legally authorized U.S. officiant based on your selected date and time.

3. Confirm and Pay

After selecting your wedding package, proceed to payment. Once the payment is completed, you'll receive an email confirmation from Courtly, officially starting your wedding planning.

4. Celebrate Your Online Wedding

Invite your family and friends to join you online as you get married. Whether you're at home or another location with internet access, the ceremony typically lasts around 15 minutes.

After your online ceremony, you'll quickly receive a digital copy of your U.S. marriage certificate. Courtly will also send you a printed copy within 1 to 2 weeks. Plus, your digital marriage license will be available for download within 24 hours after the ceremony.

The Legality of Online Marriages in Minnesota

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, many jurisdictions enforced strict requirements for marriages to be legally recognized, often mandating that both the officiant and the couple be physically present. Couples were also typically required to visit the county clerk's office in person to obtain a marriage license.

In 2019, Utah County revolutionized this process by partnering with the information technology department to develop a fully digital marriage license application system. This new process allowed couples to complete their marriage licensing entirely online, removing the need for any in-person visits.

A key aspect of Utah's online marriage process is its accessibility to everyone, regardless of where they live. Generally, a marriage that is legally performed in one state is recognized nationwide, as long as it complies with both state and federal laws. This means that a marriage conducted online through Utah's system is valid and recognized by other states across the U.S.

Special Circumstances and FAQs

Handling Name Changes and Other Post-Marriage Documentation

After getting married, if you decide to change your name, you'll need to update various identification and legal documents, such as your driver's license, social security card, and passport. You'll also need a certified copy of your marriage certificate to complete these changes. Each state has different requirements, so you may also consider using a Courtly Name Change Box to quicken the process. Each box contains essential documents and instructions for changing your name after marriage.

The Legality of Online Marriage Abroad

If you marry online and intend to use your marriage certificate abroad, you may need to get it apostilled or authenticated, depending on the country. An apostille is a form of certification that makes your marriage certificate recognized in countries that are part of the Hague Convention. For countries not in the Hague Convention, you'll need to have your document authenticated by the appropriate authorities and legalized by the destination country's embassy.

‍Can Non-Residents Get Married Online in Minnesota?

Yes, non-residents can get married online in Minnesota using platforms like Courtly. These platforms facilitate the online marriage process by coordinating with the necessary authorities and handling the paperwork for you. Online marriages conducted through such services are legally recognized, and your marriage records will not indicate that the marriage was performed online.

Is There a Waiting Period After Applying?

In Minnesota, after applying for a marriage license, there is generally no waiting period. However, this may vary, so it's best to confirm with your local county clerk's office.

How Long Is the Marriage License Valid?

A marriage license in Minnesota is typically valid for six months from the date of issuance. This means you have six months to get married before the license expires and you would need to reapply.

Final Thoughts

This guide has provided you with the essential information to smoothly navigate the online marriage process in Minnesota. We’ve covered the legal steps for obtaining a marriage license, the benefits of using online platforms, and a clear process to make your experience as straightforward as possible.

Using platforms like Courtly, you can streamline the entire marriage procedure. These services connect you with a licensed officiant and manage all the necessary paperwork, ensuring that your marriage certificate is delivered promptly and hassle-free.

By staying in close contact with your chosen platform and thoughtfully planning your ceremony, you can ensure a seamless and stress-free journey. This guide simplifies the process of getting married online in Minnesota, allowing you to embark on this new chapter of life with confidence and ease.