How to Get Married Online in Minnesota (Complete 2026 Guide)
If you’re looking for a fast, convenient, and stress-free way to get legally married in Minnesota, an online wedding ceremony could be the perfect solution. Traditional weddings often involve traveling to a county clerk, scheduling appointments, and handling a long list of tasks.
With an online marriage, couples can complete the entire process from the comfort of home — quickly, legally, and without the usual hassle.
This guide explains everything Minnesota couples need to know about marrying online, including legality, requirements, and how Distant Weddings makes the process simple.
What Does “Getting Married Online” Mean in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, a traditional marriage requires couples to obtain a marriage license in person and conduct the ceremony with an officiant and witnesses physically present.
However, Minnesota residents can legally get married online using Utah’s digital marriage license system, which is recognized nationwide.
A marriage legally performed in another U.S. state, like Utah, is automatically recognized in Minnesota, provided it complies with federal and state laws. This is what makes online weddings possible for Minnesota couples.
Are Online Marriages Legal for Minnesota Residents?
Yes — here’s why.
Utah’s Fully Digital Marriage System
In 2019, Utah County launched the nation’s first fully online marriage platform. This system allows couples to:
- Apply for a marriage license online
- Hold their wedding ceremony virtually
- Have the officiant file all documents electronically
- Receive a legal U.S. marriage certificate
You do not need to live in Utah to use this system.
Nationwide Recognition
Marriages legally performed through Utah’s online system are valid in all 50 states, including Minnesota.
This is the legal foundation that Distant Weddings relies on for fully online weddings.
Traditional Minnesota Marriage Requirements (In-Person)
If you choose a traditional Minnesota wedding, here’s what you’ll need:
Identification
Both partners must appear in person and present:
- Driver’s license
- State ID
- Passport
- Military ID
Some counties may also require a birth certificate.
Additional Information
- Legal names, birth dates, and birthplaces
- Parents’ names and birthplaces
- Previous marriage information
- Intended surname after marriage (optional)
License Validity
A Minnesota marriage license is valid for six months from the date it’s issued.
Ceremony & Witnesses
- Ceremony must occur in Minnesota
- At least two witnesses must attend
- Officiant must be authorized to perform weddings in Minnesota
County Variations
Rules, fees, and appointment requirements vary by county, which is why many couples prefer the online option.
Online Marriage License vs. Full Online Wedding
Online Marriage License
Some states allow you to apply for a license online, but still require:
✔ Physical presence in the state
✔ In-person ceremony
✔ County paperwork
Full Online Wedding (Distant Weddings)
With Distant Weddings, the process is fully virtual:
✔ Marriage license issued digitally
✔ Ceremony completed online
✔ Licensed officiant joins remotely
✔ No physical presence required
✔ Legal U.S. marriage certificate
This is the easiest choice for Minnesota couples wanting a fully remote wedding.
Why Minnesota Couples Choose Online Marriage
Feature | Traditional Minnesota 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 Minnesota | Anywhere with internet |
Witnesses required | Yes | Provided if needed |
Speed | Days–weeks | 24–48 hours |
Paperwork | Manual | Fully digital |
Valid in Minnesota | Yes | Yes — recognized nationwide |
How to Get Married Online in Minnesota with Distant Weddings
Distant Weddings uses Utah County’s official digital marriage system to provide Minnesota couples with a fast, legal online wedding.
1. Create Your Account
Sign up in minutes and begin 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 chosen date and time.
3. Complete Secure ID Verification
All licensing is handled digitally:
✔ No paperwork
✔ No county visits
✔ Fully online
4. Enjoy Your Online Wedding Ceremony
Log in from a phone, tablet, or computer.
Ceremonies typically last around 15 minutes, and friends and family can join 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 Minnesota and across the U.S.
Getting Your Online Marriage Recognized Internationally (Apostille)
If you plan to use your marriage certificate abroad, an Apostille may be needed.
Distant Weddings provides guidance to make this process simple.
FAQs About Getting Married Online in Minnesota
Is an online marriage legal for Minnesota residents?
Yes. Minnesota recognizes marriages legally performed in another U.S. state, including Utah’s online system.
Do we need to be in Minnesota 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 Minnesota
For couples wanting a fast, simple, and fully legal wedding, Distant Weddings is the easiest option.
Complete your application, ceremony, and certificate entirely online — no county office visits required.
Skip the stress of planning a traditional wedding and focus on what matters most: 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.
