Marriage or Civil Union Certificate

In 2005, New Zealand introduced the concept of civil unions as a legal relationship resembling marriage. The distinctive feature of civil unions is their inclusivity, catering to both same-sex and opposite-sex couples. Read on to learn more about the Marriage or Civil Union Certificate of New Zealand.

Eligibility for Civil Unions

Before entering a civil union in New Zealand, it’s essential to meet specific criteria: 

• Both parties should neither be married nor in a civil union with another person. 
• Blood relatives and other close relationships through marriage or adoption are prohibited. For an exhaustive list of disallowed relationships, refer to Schedule 2 of the Civil Union Act 2004. 
• Both individuals must be aged 18 or above. However, those aged 16 or 17 need to get a Family court’s permission. This permission-seeking mirrors the process required for marriage at these ages. 

Process of Entering a Civil Union

To formalize a civil union, one must follow a structured process: 

Step 1: Begin by submitting a "Notice of Intended Civil Union" to the registrar. This document is available on the official government website. As part of this notice, a statutory declaration is included, necessitating the signature of one of the partners in the presence of a Registrar of Civil Unions, typically at a Births, Deaths, and Marriage’s office. 

Step 2: A corresponding fee accompanies this process. Detailed instructions regarding the fee submission are outlined on the form. 

Step 3: After processing, the couple gets a civil union license and two documents that provide information about the union. Ensure these documents are handed to the celebrant before the ceremony. 

The Deadline for the Formal Ceremony

A time frame of three months post-receiving the civil union license is allotted for conducting the ceremony. 

The options are twofold: the ceremony can be performed by a Registrar of Civil Unions. This could be held at a Registry Office during standard business hours. The function can also be performed by an approved civil union celebrant at any chosen venue and time.

For those searching for a civil union celebrant, resources are available online. 

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Concluding a Civil Union

The formal conclusion of a civil union transpires when the Family Court issues a Dissolution Order, analogous to the termination of a marriage. 

Transitioning from a Civil Union to Marriage

For couples wishing to transition their civil union into a marriage, a specific procedure exists. This entails completing a form or notice of an Intended Marriage Change. This changes the relationship from Civil Union to marriage. More information on this topic is readily available on the official government website. 

Obtaining a New Zealand Marriage or Civil Union Certificate

For those seeking official documentation of their union, the New Zealand Marriage or Civil Union Certificate (BDM 93M or 93C) stands as a testament. Orders for this certificate can be placed with the Department of Internal Affairs. The typical processing time is approximately two weeks. 

Ordering a Civil Union Certificate in New Zealand

There are multiple avenues to order a civil union certificate: 

Online: This is the most straightforward method. Simply visit the designated website and follow the prompts to place the order. 

Phone: Applicants can call the designated number to request a certificate. Ensure that they have all the necessary details on hand. 

Post: Fill in the required form and mail it to the appropriate address to receive the certificate. 

In-person: If the applicants prefer face-to-face interaction, they can visit the designated office or location to place the order. 

Associated Cost

The standard fee for a civil union certificate is $33. Ensure that they have the means to make this payment, depending on the chosen ordering method. 

Payment Options for Ordering

Individuals can utilize credit, debit, or prepaid gift cards (like the Prezzy card) for payments through: 

• Online platforms 
• Postal services 
• Phone calls 
• Direct in-person transactions 

If someone lacks any of these payment methods, they must make their order either: 

• By utilizing a printed application form 
• Directly in person. 

Uses of a Civil Union Certificate

A civil union certificate serves as formal proof of an individual’s union. In addition to the certificate, several establishments also recognize the "Copy of particulars of civil union" that was provided at the time of the union’s formalization. 

Conclusion

New Zealand’s approach to civil unions and marriages underscores its commitment to inclusivity and flexibility. Understanding these processes helps people navigate personal relationships confidently within the legal system of their country.