Marriage
We do not marry people at the Embassy or Consulates.
Marriage in Japan
Before an Australian may marry in Japan, they must provide a certificate issued by the Australian Government stating that those authorities do not know of any impediment to the marriage. Such a certificate is known as a Certificate of No Impediment (CNI).
Applying for a CNI in Japan
Australian citizens and permanent residents can apply by completing the CNI application and submitting it along with your passport. And, if either party is divorced or widowed, please provide a the relevant divorce order (rikon shomeisho) or death certificate (shibou shindan sho). Fees apply. We aim to issue certificates within 5 working days.
Certificates are issued in English and Japanese, for that reason we require that you complete the Japanese application showing the preferred Japanese spelling of the applicant and partner's name and details. Only sign the English language declaration. Do not sign the Japanese language declaration.
Download CNI Application Form
Applying in Person
Please contact your nearest Australian mission to lodge your application. Applicants can complete the form and present it at an Australian mission for witnessing.
Applying by Mail
Mailed applications are acceptable only if witnessed by a qualified witness in Japan who holds the local equivalent office or professional qualification as listed on the application form:
- legal practitioner;
- clerk of a court;
- medical practitioner;
- magistrate;
- bailiff;
- minister of religion;
- civil marriage celebrant;
- police officer;
- Notary Public (Koshonin);
- see application for full list
Post all documentation and fees to your nearest Australian mission along with a return stamped self-addressed envelope.
All fees are payable in cash, Japanese yen; or by a postal money order (yuubin kawase), which is available at the post office.
For further general information please see our Marriage Overseas brochure.
Marriage in Australia
Please consult with your Marriage Celebrant or your State's Registrar of Births, Deaths and Marriages or visit the website of Australia's Attorney General for information on marriage in Australia.
Notices of Intended Marriage can be witnessed at your nearest Australian mission. Fees apply.