Civil partnerships
A civil partnership is a legal relationship that can be entered into by two people, either of the same sex or opposite sex, who are not related or already in a civil partnership or marriage.
A civil partnership is an alternative to a marriage. A civil partnership is entered into by the signing of the civil partnership schedule, while a marriage is formed by exchanging vows, followed by the signing of the marriage schedule.
They offer the parties the same rights, obligations and benefits as married couples.
Once you register a civil partnership, you will be unable to get married unless you get the civil partnership dissolved.
Civil partnerships formed in Northern Ireland are recognised in many countries. If you’re going abroad, you should check with the authorities about what rights you might have under that country’s laws.
Civil partnership ceremonies
Civil partnership and marriage ceremonies follow the same process and have the same fees. Both partners must complete the civil partnership notice forms and provide the same legal documents that are needed for a marriage.
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