How to Get Alberta Marriage Records

Alberta marriage records are kept and maintained by the Alberta corporate registry as part of its Vital Statistics Services. The Corporate Registry Service looks after Alberta marriage records along with other important documents for the benefit of the general public. Official documents such as Alberta marriage records are based on the original registration that was filed during the time of the incident. Alberta marriage records reflect a copy of the completed registration form accomplished by the couple and the one who officiated the wedding, which is filed by the marriage commissioner within forty-eight hours after the event.

Copies of Alberta marriage records can be obtained through an Alberta registry agent from the Vital Statistics Office. Residents interested in getting a copy of their Alberta marriage records should apply to an Alberta registry agent personally or through writing. An application for Alberta marriage records is generally handled within two to three days after receipt of the request. The documents are mailed to the petitioner who requested the Alberta marriage records. However, special arrangements can be made regarding delivery in case the requester needs the Alberta marriage records immediately.

In general, Alberta marriage records are restricted for specific purposes. Alberta marriage records cannot be used for identification purposes. However, Alberta marriage records can be used for consulate or legal purposes as well as for genealogical research. The Vital Statistics office only provides photocopies of Alberta marriage records. But photocopies of Alberta marriage records are stamped as certified true copies of the original as indicated by the official raised seal. Photocopies of Alberta marriage records like the Certificate of Marriage is available in two sizes, small and large.

The information generally contained in the Alberta marriage records include the full names of the bride and groom, the date and place of the wedding ceremony, the birthplace of the couple along with the registration date and number. However information on Alberta marriage records may vary depending on the year of the event as the Vital Statistics Office has altered the procedure over time.

Corrections on Alberta Marriage Records

Various parties often request corrections on their personal Alberta marriage records. The corrections put forward on Alberta marriage records are generally amendments to errors that may have been made when the documents were filed. However, there are instances wherein the parties involved deliberately request the amendment of their Alberta marriage records.

Any requests to amend or correct Alberta marriage records must be done directly with the Office of Vital Statistics. In addition, the changes to be made on Alberta marriage records must be adequately supported by documents that are valid and legitimate. An amendment fee of $20.00 is collected for any corrections or changes made to Alberta marriage records. However, the fee does not apply to any changes done within the ninety-day period following the time the event occurred.

The Vital Statistics Office prepares a statutory declaration upon receipt of the request to amend Alberta marriage records. The statutory declaration must be examined carefully and signed by the petitioner in front of a notary public or of a Commissioner for oaths.

Late Registration of Alberta Marriage Records

If an event such as a marriage is not registered within a year after it occurred, it is considered a delayed registration. When this happens, a petitioner must provide adequate evidence to support the delayed registration of Alberta marriage records. A photocopy of the marriage register can be used to substantiate delayed registrations of Alberta marriage records. A $20.00 fee for delayed registrations of Alberta marriage records should be submitted together with the accomplished registration and declarations provided by Alberta Vital Statistics.