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Michigan flag – how to get married online in Michigan guide

How to Get Married Online in Michigan (Complete 2026 Guide)

If you’re searching for a fast, convenient, and stress-free way to get legally married in Michigan, an online wedding ceremony might be the perfect choice. Traditional weddings usually involve traveling to a county clerk, scheduling appointments, and managing a long checklist of tasks.

With an online marriage, couples can complete the entire process from the comfort of home — legally, quickly, and hassle-free.

This guide explains everything Michigan couples need to know about marrying online, including legality, requirements, and how Distant Weddings simplifies the process.

What Does “Getting Married Online” Mean in Michigan?

In Michigan, traditional marriages require couples to obtain a marriage license in person from a county clerk and have the ceremony conducted physically with witnesses.

However, Michigan residents can legally get married online by using Utah’s digital marriage license system, which is recognized nationwide.

A marriage legally performed in another U.S. state, such as Utah, is automatically recognized in Michigan, provided it meets federal and state laws. This makes online weddings a viable option for Michigan couples.

Are Online Marriages Legal for Michigan Residents?

Yes — and here’s why.

Utah’s Fully Digital Marriage System

In 2019, Utah County launched the first fully online marriage platform in the U.S. This system allows couples to:

  • Apply for a marriage license online
  • Conduct their wedding ceremony virtually
  • Have the officiant file the necessary documents electronically
  • Receive a legal U.S. marriage certificate

You do not need to reside in Utah to use this system.

Nationwide Recognition

Marriages legally performed through Utah’s online system are valid across all 50 states, including Michigan.
This provides the legal foundation that Distant Weddings uses to offer fully online weddings.

Traditional Michigan Marriage Requirements (In-Person)

If you decide to marry traditionally in Michigan, here’s what you’ll generally need:

Identification

Both partners must appear in person and provide:

  • Driver’s license
  • State ID
  • Passport
  • Military ID

Some counties may also require a birth certificate.

Additional Information

  • Full legal names, birth dates, and birthplaces
  • Parents’ names and birthplaces
  • Details of any previous marriages
  • Intended surname after marriage (optional)

License Validity

A Michigan marriage license is valid for 33 days from the date it is issued.

Ceremony & Witnesses

  • Ceremony must be conducted in Michigan
  • At least two witnesses must be present
  • The officiant must be legally authorized to perform marriages in Michigan

County Variations

Fees, appointment rules, and documentation requirements vary by county.
Many couples choose online marriage to avoid these complications.

Online Marriage License vs. Full Online Wedding

Online Marriage License

Some states allow couples to apply for a marriage license online, but still require:

✔ In-person ceremony
✔ Physical presence in the state
✔ Filing paperwork at a county clerk’s office

Full Online Wedding (Distant Weddings)

With Distant Weddings, the process is fully virtual:

✔ Marriage license issued digitally
✔ Ceremony conducted online
✔ Licensed officiant joins remotely
✔ No physical presence required
✔ Valid U.S. marriage certificate

This is the simplest option for Michigan couples wanting a fully remote marriage.

Why Michigan Couples Choose Online Marriage

Feature

Traditional Michigan Marriage

Online Marriage with Distant Weddings

Apply for license online

❌ Usually no

✅ 100% online

In-person visit required

✅ Yes

❌ Not required

Ceremony location

Must be in Michigan

Anywhere with internet

Witnesses required

Yes

Provided if needed

Speed

Days–weeks

24–48 hours

Paperwork

Manual

Fully digital

Valid in Michigan

Yes

Yes — recognized nationwide

How to Get Married Online in Michigan with Distant Weddings

Distant Weddings uses Utah County’s official digital marriage process to give Michigan couples a fast, legal online wedding experience.

1. Create Your Account

Sign up in minutes and start your wedding process immediately.

2. Choose Your Ceremony Style & Date

Select your preferred style — simple, symbolic, religious, or modern.
Distant Weddings matches you with a licensed officiant based on your date and time preferences.

3. Complete Secure ID Verification

We handle your licensing digitally:

✔ No paperwork
✔ No county office visits
✔ Fully online

4. Enjoy Your Online Wedding Ceremony

Join your ceremony from a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Ceremonies usually last about 15 minutes, and friends and family can attend virtually.

5. Receive Your Legal Marriage Certificate

You’ll get:

  • Instant digital copy
  • Printed certificate delivered in 1–2 weeks

Your marriage is recognized in Michigan and across the United States.

Getting Your Online Marriage Recognized Internationally (Apostille)

If you plan to use your marriage certificate abroad, an Apostille may be required.
Distant Weddings provides guidance to make this process simple.

FAQs About Getting Married Online in Michigan

Is an online marriage legal for Michigan residents?
Yes. Michigan recognizes marriages legally performed in other U.S. states, including Utah’s online system.

Do we need to be in Michigan during the ceremony?
No — you can be anywhere with internet access.

Are witnesses required?
Distant Weddings can provide witnesses if necessary.

How fast is the process?
Most couples complete everything in 24–48 hours.

Will our marriage be valid for immigration purposes?
Yes. Couples applying for immigration may need an Apostille, and Distant Weddings can guide you.

Conclusion: The Easiest Way to Get Married Online in Michigan

For couples seeking a fast, convenient, and fully legal marriage, Distant Weddings is the easiest choice.
Complete your application, ceremony, and certificate entirely online — no county office visits needed.

Skip the stress of traditional weddings and focus on celebrating your love.

Get Married Online

Get married online with Distant Weddings. We’ll guide you step by step through our 3-step process, ensuring the process is simple & easy.