Civil union

Like marriage, civil union is a solemn act by which two people make a public commitment to:

• live together;
• respect the rights and obligations of a civil union.

However, unlike marriage, a civil union is valid only in Québec.

You must make this commitment before your intended spouse and an authorized officiant, who can be:

• a civil officiant, such as a notary, court clerk, mayor or municipal councillor;
• a designated officiant, including a close friend or relative such as your grandmother, cousin or best friend.

To be valid, your civil union must meet certain conditions, concerning:

• your personal situation;
• the preparations for your civil union;
• the civil union ceremony.

If you civil union does not meet all the conditions, any interested person may oppose it or request its annulment.