How to Get Married Online in New York (Complete 2026 Guide)

If you want a quick, convenient, and legally recognized way to get married without navigating New York’s busy county offices, an online wedding might be the perfect solution. Traditional marriage procedures often require appointments, travel, long waits, and in-person ceremonies.

With an online marriage, you can complete the entire process at home — fast, legally, and without the stress.

This guide explains how New York residents can get married online, how the process works, and how Distant Weddings makes everything incredibly simple.

What Does “Getting Married Online” Mean for New Yorkers?

New York still relies on in-person steps for a standard marriage — including showing up at the City Clerk’s office and having an in-person ceremony conducted by an authorized officiant.

However, New York residents can get legally married online using Utah’s fully digital marriage license and ceremony platform, which is recognized across the United States.

If your marriage is legally performed in another U.S. state, New York law automatically accepts it, provided it meets basic federal requirements.

And that’s exactly how online marriages are possible for New Yorkers today.

Are Online Marriages Legal for New York Residents?

Yes — completely.
Here’s the legal foundation behind it:

Utah’s Fully Digital Marriage System

In 2019, Utah County created the first end-to-end online marriage system in the U.S. Through this platform, couples can:

• Apply for a marriage license online
  
• Hold the ceremony online
  
• Have the officiant file everything electronically
  
• Receive an official U.S. marriage certificate
  
• Participate from anywhere in the world

You do not need to live in Utah or appear there physically.

Recognized Nationwide

A marriage validly performed in Utah is valid in all 50 states — including New York.

This federal and state-level recognition is what allows Distant Weddings to provide fully online ceremonies for New Yorkers.

Traditional New York Marriage Requirements (In-Person)

If you choose to get married traditionally in New York, here’s what is normally required:

ID Requirements

Both partners must appear in person and show one of the following:

• Driver’s license
  
• U.S. or foreign passport
  
• Military ID
  
• State-issued ID card

   

Information Needed

Counties typically request:

• Legal name, date of birth, birthplace
  
• Parents’ names and birthplaces
  
• Details about previous marriages
  
• Your chosen post-marriage name (optional)

   

License Validity

A New York marriage license is valid for 60 days, except for active-duty military, who get extra time.

Witness & Location Rules

• You must have at least one witness
  
• The ceremony must be performed in New York State
  
• Appointment availability varies by county

Because of these steps, many New Yorkers choose the faster, fully online route instead.

Online Marriage License vs. Online Marriage Ceremony (Important Difference)

Online Marriage License

Many counties (including New York City) allow you to apply for your license online — but you still must:

✔ Attend an in-person ceremony
✔ Remain physically in the state
✔ Follow traditional requirements

Online Ceremony (What Distant Weddings Provides)

With a complete online marriage:

✔ Application is fully digital
✔ Ceremony is conducted online
✔ No travel or in-person visit required
✔ Witnesses can be provided
✔ Official U.S. marriage certificate issued

This is the easiest option for New York couples who want a truly remote experience.

Why New York Couples Choose Online Marriage

Here’s how online marriage compares to a traditional New York ceremony:

How to Get Married Online in New York Through Distant Weddings

Distant Weddings uses Utah’s official digital marriage system to give New Yorkers a fast, modern, and legally binding online marriage.

Here’s the step-by-step process:

1. Create Your Distant Weddings Account

Registration takes just a minute. Once your account is set up, you can begin right away.

2. Pick Your Ceremony Style & Date

Choose the type of ceremony you want — simple, religious, modern, romantic, or symbolic.

We pair you with a licensed U.S. officiant based on your preferred date and time.

3. Complete Secure Online ID Verification

We use a safe digital system to verify your identification and complete your marriage license.

✔ No paperwork
✔ No county clerk visits
✔ No complicated forms

4. Attend Your Online Wedding Ceremony

Log in from your phone, tablet, or laptop.

Ceremonies usually take about 15 minutes, and guests can join from anywhere.

5. Receive Your Legal Marriage Certificate

After your ceremony, you’ll receive:

• An instant digital copy of your marriage certificate
  
• A printed certificate mailed to you in 1–2 weeks

Your certificate is valid in all U.S. states and territories.

Using Your Marriage Internationally (Apostille Service)

If you or your partner live abroad or need your marriage recognized by another country, you may need an apostille. This official authentication allows your certificate to be used overseas.

Distant Weddings can guide you through this step easily.

FAQs About Getting Married Online in New York

Is an online marriage legal for New Yorkers?

Yes. New York recognizes any marriage legally performed in another state, including Utah’s online system.

Do we need to be physically in New York during the ceremony?

No — you can be anywhere with an internet connection.

Do we need witnesses?

If you don’t have witnesses available, Distant Weddings can provide them.

How quickly can we get married online?

Most couples complete the entire process within 24–48 hours.

Will this marriage be valid for immigration?

Yes. Couples using their marriage certificate for immigration will often need an apostille, and we can help with that.

Conclusion: The Easiest Way to Get Married Online in New York

If you’re searching for a simple, fast, and fully legal way to get married, Distant Weddings offers the smoothest option available. You can complete every step — from license to ceremony to certificate — without going to a clerk’s office or scheduling an in-person event.

Save time, reduce stress, and enjoy a beautiful online ceremony from anywhere.