WEDDING REQUIREMENTS
All information provided here is subject to change. You must contact your destination’s Tourism and Visitors Bureau to verify wedding requirements and procedures as many laws and policies may change, and if paperwork must be provided in advance of your arrival, you must obtain these documents, in some cases three to six months in advance of your wedding date. You will be required to provide proof of ID, birth certificate, divorce certificate if necessary, and passport where required. Please contact the island's Tourism and Visitors Bureau for further details and contacts and if applications must be submitted prior to your arrival.
Anguilla:
www.anguilla-vacation.com/wedding_plan.htm
Couples marry under the authority of a special license that takes approximately two working days to process. Both parties must present proof of citizenship of their resident country. These documents are the same documents that you will need to fulfill your entry requirements when visiting Anguilla; your passport or an original birth certificate accompanied by a photo identification such as a driver's license. Two witnesses are required. If applicable, a divorce or death certificate must be present.
If one partner resides in Anguilla for at least fifteen days before the date of marriage, the cost of the license is US$40. If the stay is shorter, then the cost of the license is $284 (representing stamp duty).
If you plan to marry in Anguilla, contact the Minister and then the Magistrate at 264-497-2377 or 264-497-3477.
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Antigua and Barbuda:
www.antigua-barbuda.org/Agmarr01.htm
What are the fees?
First, there is a registration fee of US$40 that must be paid at the courthouse in the new government buildings on Queen Elizabeth Highway. The application fee for the special marriage license is US$150, and the Marriage Officer's fee is US$50.
How about documents? What do we need?
You both will need valid passports as proof of citizenship. If either of you have been previously married, then bring along the original divorce decree or, in the case of a widow or widower, the original marriage and death certificates.
For a copy of the marriage license application, please click here for the pdf form.
Are there any other legal requirements?
Both parties must be over 15, if under 18, written authorization from your parents or guardians is required. It is important that all documents presented are original or certified original by the issuing departments or offices. Ensure that all documents are in your legal name, and provide affidavits in cases where you are known by another name. Your marriage must also be solemnized or celebrated in the presence of two or more witnesses, apart from the Marriage Officer. (Just ask a guest or two to do this for you).
Is the marriage ceremony legal?
Of course, it is both legal and binding. Additionally, consent must be expressed by both parties to accept each other as husband and wife.
Can I be married in a church?
Yes, but it requires the permission from the church authorities where you wish to be married. Have your pastor contact the church to establish the requirements. Some churches ask that the couple attend pre-nuptial consultations. Allow some extra time if planning a church ceremony.
Where can I get a list of churches in Antigua?
Contact the Antigua and Barbuda Department of Tourism for a list of churches on the island.
Can my hotel assist with the arrangements?
Certainly, as most hotels in Antigua and Barbuda offer wedding and honeymoon packages. Check with your travel agent or the Antigua and Barbuda Department of Tourism for more information.
The Ministry of Legal Affairs is open Monday to Thursday, 8:30am to 4:30pm and on Fridays from 8:00am to 3:00pm. Flights which arrive into Antigua after 3:00pm will not permit couples to get to the Ministry of Justice in time to apply for the Special Marriage License. In such cases, the couple can arrange for the marriage to take place either the next day after completing the application process, or, on any available day thereafter.
Events Management Antigua specializes in creative development and flawless execution of numerous types of events.
Website: http://www.eventsmanagementantigua.com/
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Aruba: **redirects you to new site but address looks the same**
www.aruba.com/pages/weddingmoon.htm
Our standard civil wedding contains: |
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Meet & Greet at the resort |
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Transportation to the civil town hall |
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Civil (legal) wedding at the historic town hall including the services & fees of the official |
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Marriage certificate (translated) |
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Two witnesses free of charge (If required) |
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Documents handling |
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Procedure for the civil marriage |
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Couple must submit a Certificate of no impediment for bride and groom (also referred to as a “single status report” and in some states called a “negative statement of marriage”). This certificate of no impediment is obtained at the bureau of vital statistics which is located in the department of health. |
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Copies of birth certificate for bride and groom with apostille (state certification). |
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If either party has been divorced we need to receive a copy of the 1st and last page of the divorce decree(s). |
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If either party is a widow(er) we need to receive a copy of the pertaining death certificate. |
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Valid passports are preferred for the couple and their witnesses. Copy of the photo and detail pages need to be submitted. (If couple does not have any witnesses, we will provide them. |
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All documents are to be faxed for review and then submitted by courier (i.e. FedEx) at least one (1) month prior to the desired wedding date |
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All civil ceremonies take place inside the Civil Town Hall |
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If you wish to renew your wedding vows, all you need is your original marriage certificate. |
Marriage in Aruba
Civil marriages are now possible in Aruba, but they must take place at the Civil Town House. Couples may also arrange a religious blessing after they have been legally married or just hold a romantic celebration beachside if they prefer.
The following are the guidelines for the various ceremonies.
CIVIL Legal Requirements:
1. All Civil/Legal Ceremonies must take place in the Civil Town House
2. Documents include:
A) Copies of birth certificate for bride and groom with apostille (state certification).
B) Passport picture page or valid state issued picture I.D. for Bride & Groom.
C) Witness (18 years up) passport picture page or valid state issued picture I.D. (minimum 2 witnesses) Witnesses can provided locally if bride and groom are traveling alone at $50 each by a weddingplanner.
D) Certificate of no impediment for bride and groom (also referred to as a “single status report” and in some states called a “negative statement of marriage”). This certificate of no impediment is obtained at the bureau of vital statistics which is located in the department of health.
E) If either party has been divorced we need to receive a copy of the 1st and last page of the divorce decree(s).
F) If either party is a widow(er) we need to receive a copy of the pertaining death certificate.
Ceremony can take place in the late morning or early afternoon on Wednesdays, Thursdays or Fridays.
Saturdays are also available in the late mornings at an additional $150 surcharge.
3. All documents are to be faxed for review and then submitted by courier (i.e. FedEx) at least one (1) month prior to desired wedding date.
Please contact a wedding planner or your host hotel wedding coordinator.
CATHOLIC:
(Must call first as this is on hold until review of procedures is complete):
1. Proof That the prospective bride and groom have attended pre-marriage preparation.
2. Permission from their priest to get married in Aruba.
3. An official declaration stating that neither party has been previously married in a Church is also required from their local priest.
4. Copy of Wedding Certificate showing that they have been legally married in their home country.
5. Baptismal and Confirmation certificates of both parties as well as copies of their passports or I.D. Cards.
6. The proposed wedding must take place "inside" the Church building.
7. All documents must be submitted 4 months prior to chosen wedding date.
PROTESTANT / EPISCOPALIAN / METHODIST:
1. Wedding Ceremony can be affiliated in the local Protestant / Episcopalian or Methodist Churches or anywhere else the couple desires.
2. If Married outside Aruba, copy of marriage certificate from their home country.
3. Proper attire is required for all "religious blessings"( ie: No Swimsuits nor Wraps for the Bride: Shorts are acceptable for the Groom.
JEWISH:
1. Both partners MUST bet Jewish and need to submit a verification of Judaism from the Rabbi of their hometown
2. The Aruban Cantor accepts Jewish status certificates from valid Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, Liberal and Re-Constructionist Authorities.
3. A formal petition needs to be submitted to the Aruba Jewish Community.
4. The wedding ceremony may take place either in the synagogue or any other venue of choice.
5. The synagogue of Aruba is an independent Conservative-Reform style congregation.
AT SEA:
A boat captain is not authorized to officiate a wedding according to Dutch laws. This applies for international waters as well as in port. The only exception to this rule is if he has been given authority by the country under whose flag the ship is registered.
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Bahamas:
www.out-island-wedding.com
First, let it be said that "Out Island Wedding, Ltd." will do everything to minimize the paperwork, and lead you throught the process, which is actually quite simple
Requirements:
You both must spend one day in Bahamas prior to submitting your application for a marriage license.
Fill out application for license at same time at registers office.
Pay nominal fee of $40.00, license valid 3 months (no blood test required)
Both parties must be in Bahamas when making application for license.
If either party is a minor under 18 years of age, parental consent is required. Obtain forms from Register General's office
If either party ever divorced, a certified or original final decree must be produced
If either party is widowed, the death certificate of deceased spouse must be produced
If any unmarried party is a resident of a country other than the US, a declaration certifying to the unmarried status must be sworn to before a Notary Public or other person authorized to administer oaths in the country of residence. This may also be prepared by an attorney or Notary Public in the Bahamas
Photo ID issued from government office from country of residence must be produced
Evidence of arrival in Bahamas must be produced; the Bahamas Immigration embarkation card will do
For further inquiry, call the Register's Offices on the various islands. In Freeport, Grand Bahama Island you may reach them at The Assistant Registrar General of The Bahamas, P.O. Box F-42602, Freeport, Grand Bahamas, Bahamas. Telephone 242-352-4934/7 or Fax 242-352-4060. Please note that there are further requirements for couples traveling from certain countries, such as Japan to wed in the Bahamas. Do be sure and ask about all details.
Barbados:
www.barbados.org/weddings.htm
Barbados Marriage Requirements
It is very easy to get married in Barbados as there is no required waiting period or minimum length of stay. Application for a marriage licence must be made by both parties in person at the office of the Ministry of Home Affairs in the capital city Bridgetown. You will require:
- Valid passports or birth certificates.
- Return tickets.
- If either party was divorced, an original Decree Absolute or a certified copy of the Final Judgment.
- If either party was previously married and widowed, a certified copy of the Marriage Certificate and Death Certificate in respect of the deceased spouse.
- For a Roman Catholic ceremony, the relevant documents must be sent by your bishop to the bishop of Bridgetown.
- Where necessary, all documents not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation.
You may contact the Ministry of Home Affairs at tel: 246-228-8950, fax: 246-437-3794.
Bermuda:
www.bermuda-online.org/marriages.htm
Bermuda Marriages for residents and visitors
Men and women, not same-sex couples

By Keith Archibald Forbes (see About Us) at e-mail exclusively for Bermuda Online
To refer to this webfile, please use "bermuda-online.org/marriages" as your Subject.
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Couples - men and women, never same sex - are warmly welcomed when they come to Bermuda to get married or honeymoon, but please note the following carefully. Bermuda - despite being classed as "British" - does not have UK laws on marriage or divorce, it has local laws. Persons getting married in Bermuda, residents or non-residents, do so under the Marriage Act 1944 or, if on a Bermuda-registered cruise ship, under the (Bermuda) Maritime Marriage Act 1999, plus the Marriage Amendment Act 2002 which now requires a certificate of marriage to be issued by the Registrar - see below - for all island marriages, whether civil, religious or church. Bermuda does not have UK-style (England & Wales) civil annulment laws. |

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Note that American, British, Canadian and other nationalities' consular officers are NOT permitted to perform marriages. Nor are they performed on the premises of an American or other consulate. The validity of marriages abroad is not dependent upon the presence of an American or other diplomatic or consular officer, but upon adherence to the laws of Bermuda (not the laws of the United Kingdom). If required, American and other consular officers may authenticate Bermuda marriage documents, for a fee. In general, marriages which are legally performed and valid in Bermuda are also legally valid in the United States and other countries. In the USA, inquiries regarding the validity of a marriage in Bermuda should be directed to the attorney general of the state in the United States where the parties to the marriage live. |
Advance information on travel documents required from non-locals for visits or marriages
All adults and children - irrespective of nationality - need individual official passports from your country of birth or domicile to enter Bermuda. To avoid discrimination against persons from the United Kingdom and Europe who must carry valid passports, this applies as much to persons in the USA and Canada as it does to those from the United Kingdom and (newly extended) EC countries of Europe. The majority of visitors arrive by air. But travel documents for all must be shown to Bermuda Immigration on arrival.
- Bermuda is a foreign country for travel purposes, not part of USA, not part of United Kingdom, not part of Canada. If you do not carry a valid passport issued by your country of birth or domicile, you have no proof from your government that you exist. Do NOT attempt to enter Bermuda without a valid passport. It is the only way of confirming your identity. Birth certificates, state or provincial documents do not do so. They can easily be faked and there are no official state representatives in Bermuda. Your own country recommends that whenever you travel abroad, you go with a USA passport, for good reason. Your federal government will look after you, as a passport holder, in the event of any trouble in Bermuda, but your state will not. You may regret it hugely if you do not have a valid passport, as handbags and purses are often stolen in Bermuda from visitors. You will find it a much longer procedure to get assistance from your embassy or consulate, or might be refused entry entirely if you do not have a passport. Since September 11, security for travelers will soon be demanding valid passports if they don't already, for all adults and children of any age. Bermudians are required to carry valid passports to enter the USA or re-enter Bermuda, so are citizens of the United Kingdom. Americans are expected to do the same when entering Bermuda. If your travel agent tells you otherwise, change your travel agent.
- Green Card or equivalent, if a legal registered alien in Britain, Canada or USA.
- A US re-entry permit if entering Bermuda from the USA and not a US citizen. (Check with the US Department of State).
- New US visa rules for passengers not American, British, Canadian or designated other nationalities when entering Bermuda from USA or leaving via USA. See Bermuda's Links with USA. Student visas to the USA for genuine students will take a minimum of 2 months to process.
- If it applies to you, a valid visa. Citizens of Australia, Britain, Canada, European Union, New Zealand and USA do not require one as visitors. But from January 2003 Jamaican nationals do. Citizens of other countries may and should consult a British Embassy or Consul. Plus, if - like all nationals of Caribbean islands far to the south of Bermuda - they travel to and from Bermuda via Britain or Canada or the USA, they must obtain and bring the appropriate in transit documentation or visas required by the Immigration authorities of these countries for both portions of the journey.
- An original marriage certificate or certified copy as further proof of identity for a married woman with travel documents still in her maiden name.
- A valid airline or cruise ship onward ticket for travel beyond Bermuda or return ticket back to place of residence, within 30 days. If your documentation is insufficient or unsatisfactory, you may be denied travel or Bermuda entry. If minor children travel with someone who is not a parent, there must be a letter from a custodial parent authorizing the trip. Only if you are going to and from Bermuda by yacht do the travel documents exclude a return ticket by air or cruise ship. Check Bermuda Harbor Radio for details.
- On the Bermuda Immigration Questionnaire, always show the full physical name, address, postal code and telephone number of where you will be staying, whether a hotel or a private home. You could be refused admittance if you do not. If your visit is for vacation purposes only, say so. If you're a non-Bermudian traveling salesman intending to solicit any kind of business as a representative of a company or organization not based in Bermuda, you must be issued, prior to your arrival, with a permit by the Bermuda Immigration authorities. Bermuda Employment and Work Permit Procedure describes the formalities and procedure required. Do not try to seek employment if you are a non-Bermudian on vacation. Be aware that the Bermuda Government has a stop list of undesirables and fugitives wanted by other countries and does not hesitate to invoke it if given cause.
- The normal maximum length of stay for visitors by air, cruise ship or yacht is 21 days - three weeks (unlike in countries such as the USA, Canada and United Kingdom which can be six months). Visitors who are not Bermudian by birth or status or do not have Permanent Resident Status or do not have a valid Work Permit to satisfy Bermuda Immigration will not be eligible for any extension beyond three weeks, not even for staying with close relatives "to look after a sick patent or sibling." The only exception is if you can prove all the following from your documentation: you are yourself a local real estate owner; have the means to support yourself without local employment; have proof of employer/employee or, as a local homeowner have individual major medical insurance coverage in Bermuda - essential. In which case, longer stays - up to 6 months - are possible by application directly and solely to the Immigration authorities of the Bermuda Government. Do not risk over-staying and its repercussions.
Visiting individuals or male-female couples who intend to get married in Bermuda but not work here can come through Immigration as visitors but must have sufficient funds and a bona fide host or place to stay. Applications for marriage have been rejected from visitors without all these.
The great majority of weddings for visitors - those who are not residents - are civil weddings. Generally, only residents, or persons marrying residents, qualify for a church wedding. Most engaged couples over 18 years old in the USA, Canada and United Kingdom who have not been married before want a church wedding in the town or city where the bride lives, with family and friends present and with the bride in a full white wedding dress and groom in either a suit or dress kilt - if a Scot - or dress military uniform. So, for practical purposes, most who get married in Bermuda, do so because they have been married before. For details of where to stay for people who wish to wed or honeymoon in Bermuda, see our Accommodation files.
The Marriage Amendment Act 2002 (However, unlike in previous years, divorced non-Bermudian parents of Bermudian children - those born with a Bermudian parent - can now retain their right to work in Bermuda, by applying for an Extension of Spouse's Employment Rights Certificate (ESERC), at a 2002 cost of $67).
Applications and general eligibility for marriages
For visitors or residents, Bermuda is a lovely place in which to get married, whether you opt for a civil wedding in the Registrar's Office or, if a local, a wedding before a minister in church complete with all the frills. The Registrar General of the Bermuda Government handles all requests for birth, marriage and death certificates. The address is Government Administration Building, 30 Parliament Street, Hamilton HM 12, Bermuda. Telephone (441) 297-7709. Contact it directly - not via this website - for any questions and fees payable in Bermuda or United States dollars.
Non residents can also get applications from the Bermuda Government's Department of Tourism offices in New York, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Toronto and London. Names and residential addresses of both applicants must always be shown in full. Persons must arrange, before they arrive to get married, to have their "Notice of Intended Marriage" published three times in the local newspapers, including at least once in the Official Gazette (also the daily local newspaper) in the manner shown below. This is done with appropriate prior written notice to the Bermuda Government's Registrar General.
When returning the application (by airmail outside Bermuda) also send the application fee - now in excess of $200 - in Bermuda or US dollars - as a money order, cashier's check or bank draft payable to Accountant General. Airmail to Bermuda often takes from 8-12 days from Canada, United Kingdom and USA. Minors (in Bermuda, 16 to not yet 21 years old, not just 18 as in the USA) must have notarized written consent of both parents or the surviving parent or legal guardian. A space is provided on the form for this purpose. A marriage will not be performed if either or both parties are under 16 years at the time of the ceremony.
Only British subjects resident in England or Scotland or Northern Ireland who marry a British subject resident in Bermuda, and for whom banns are called in their normal place of worship in the United Kingdom, can also have their banns called in the church in Bermuda where the marriage takes place. Ask directly at the church for details. Some local churches will require considerable notice from both parties for weddings.
No blood tests or health certificates are required in Bermuda. But official copies - never anything else - of final divorce decrees, plus any prior divorce degrees, from the relevant office of a particular state, province or county must accompany the "Notice of Intended Marriage" form for all divorced persons getting married in Bermuda. This notice is published by the Registry staff in two of the local newspapers of record in Bermuda, including the Official Gazette.
Despite being a foreign country for citizens of all other countries, Bermuda marriages are recognized in the USA and elsewhere. Appropriate checks are made from Bermuda with federal and state or provincial authorities in the USA and elsewhere to determine if proposed marriages are bigamous and/or are being undertaken out of the USA to try to conceal marriage disclosures from Social Security or tax authorities.
There are two types of such official public notices. They are one or other of the following:
- The Marriage Act 1944. Notice of Intended Marriage
- The Maritime Marriage Act 1999. Notice of Intended Marriage. Section 6-3, if getting married at sea in a Bermuda-registered cruise ship with a license to perform a marriage. In this connection, the list includes the Captain, licensed in Bermuda as a Marriage Officer.
This is what they both say, in this fictitious example:
| "The persons named and described hereunder have given notice to me of their intended marriage, namely Roberta Chiappa of 498 River Drive, New York, New York 10025, USA (single) and Harold Bertram Challen of 499 Tennessee Drive, New York, New York 10025 (divorced). Dated this 18th day of August, 2006. Marlene Christopher, Registrar General." |
More than 60 percent of all notices of marriage in Bermuda show couples living together in North America or Europe at specific addresses before the ceremony.
A period of 14 days must elapse from the date of receipt of the notice by the Registry before the Registry General may issue the license to marry. Parties to the intended marriage are not required to be resident during this time. The license to marry may be issued on or after the 15th day provided no formal objection has been raised to the intended marriage. The license to marry must be issued within three months of the receipt of the notice by the Registrar General and remains valid for three months from the date of issue. Once the couple has the marriage license, the ceremony can be performed. A separate cost is required for a civil ceremony which includes the use of the Marriage Room, the marriage license and certificate. If an additional copy of the certificate is required it will cost US $18). Civil ceremonies are performed in the Marriage Room of the Registry by appointment only, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays between 10:00 a.m. and 12 noon.
Historically, Bermuda was once known as the honeymoon capital. About 20,000 honeymooners arrived in 2003. In that year, there were 1,029 marriages in Bermuda, 587 between non-residents, 376 for residents and 66 between a resident and non-resident. About 920 marriages were performed by ministers of religions and 173 (16 percent) carried out at the Office of the Registrar General. In February and March, an annual Wedding and Honeymoon Guide is published, produced by the Bermuda Government's Department of Tourism in conjunction with Bridal Guide magazine, with more than 400,000 circulation. In addition, a "Bermuda for Two" guide can help those seeking a romantic getaway.
Differences between North American and Bermuda application procedures
- For weddings in the USA, where most of those getting married in Bermuda come from, there is a requirement for various legal reasons to show social security numbers of both consenting parties. This is not a requirement in Bermuda. But the "Notice of Intended Marriage" is made completely public, anyone is at liberty to refer to it or pass it on.
Blood tests are required by some US states but are not required in Bermuda.
Marriage fees
Maritime Marriage Act 1999
(Getting married, as a Bermudian or non-national, on a Bermuda-registered cruise ship). All prices are in US$ or BDA$. For full explanation of fees and which apply in specific cases, go directly to the Registrar General's Office shown in the first paragraph. All fees from overseas should be by certified check (cheque) or draft, never a personal check.
1 (a) Entering a notice of marriage under section 6 |
from $57.00 |
(b) caveat under section 10 |
from $37.00 |
2. Issuing a certificate under section 7 |
from $38.00 |
3. (a) Applying for a special license under section 13 |
from $19.00 |
(b) Issuing a special license under section 13 |
from $400.00 |
4. Copying an entry in the Register of Maritime Marriages under section 19 |
from $20.00 |
5. Providing express service (within 2 working days in Bermuda and overseas if applicable) on request in connection with paragraph 4. Refundable if deadline not met. |
from $12.00 |
6. Searching the Register of Maritime Marriages under section 19 |
from $14.00 |
7. Correcting an entry in Register of Maritime Marriages under section 21 |
from $14.00 |
Marriage Act 1944
For all other marriages in Bermuda of Bermudians and non-nationals.
1 (a) Entering a notice of marriage under section 10 |
from $57.00 |
(b) caveat under section 17 |
from $37.00 |
2. Issuing a certificate under section 14 |
from $38.00 |
3. (a) Applying for a special license |
from $19.00 |
(b) Issuing a special license under section 20 |
from $400.00 |
4. Contracting marriage before the Registrar under section 9 |
from $164.00 |
5. Copying an entry in the Register of Maritime Marriages under section 30 |
from $20.00 |
6. Providing express service (within 2 working days in Bermuda and overseas if applicable) on request in connection with paragraph 5. Refundable if deadline not met. |
from $12.00 |
7. Searching the Register of Maritime Marriages under section 30 |
from $14.00 |
8. Correcting an entry in Register of Maritime Marriages under section 32 |
from $14.00 |
Marriages must be performed in one of these places
- The office of the Registrar General by appointment between 10.00 am and 4.00 pm Monday to Friday or Saturday from 10.00 am to 12.00 noon only. Two witnesses are required for Registry marriages which take place in an attractively decorated Marriage Room with comfortable seating for up to a dozen guests (more may be accommodated if standing). This is where persons who are not resident should expect to be married, the only place the Registrar will do so.
- Or in a church or place other than the Registry General always with the prior consent of that office. It should be noted that visitors who do not marry a Bermudian or someone ordinarily resident in Bermuda will not be allowed to get married in a local church. However, there may be special circumstances where, in the Church of England in Bermuda, this can change. It will depend on whether the local church of England still complies with - or has rescinded as the Church of England in the United Kingdom has done - the rule that the church will not provide a wedding to "anyone who has a former partner, still living." Check directly with the church, if relevant. The church which broke from Rome because of the wish of King Henry VIII to be free of his first wife has officially barred second weddings in church for divorcees since the 17th century.
- In religious marriages when at least one of the couple is a local resident, a service can be arranged by special request with the minister or religious official concerned at the church or a synagogue or temple, never at a hotel. If a hotel marriage is desired, ask the hotel directly if it is possible and under what circumstances. Qualified resident clergy are sometimes licensed for more ceremonies than just one. Some will not marry persons one or both of whom have been divorced under any laws of any country.
- Catholics not normally resident in Bermuda and who have not been married before cannot be married in Catholic churches in Bermuda except under exceptional circumstances, for example, people who have special family ties in Bermuda or who have lived in Bermuda previously. Questions on this subject must be addressed by airmail directly to the Bishop of Hamilton in Bermuda, P. O Box HM 1191, Hamilton HM EX, Bermuda. Locally, Catholics are required to give 12 months notice. If you have been married before and do not have a decree of annulment for that marriage, you cannot use a Catholic Church at all.
- No aircraft in Bermuda or any accommodation properties are allowed under Bermuda laws to marry you in Bermuda. If you want a non-religious Bermuda wedding, you must get married in the Registrar's office. The exception to this is a captain of a Bermuda-registered cruise ship or similar who has gone through the "Appointment of a Marriage Officer" process mentioned earlier.
- Under the provisions of the Marriage Act 1944 the Minister of Labor, Home Affairs & Public Safety of the Bermuda Government can license a particular visiting minister or someone else certified in their jurisdiction as a qualified and competent religious minister or pastor or rabbi - for one Bermuda marriage ceremony. This means that if you can afford it and give plenty of notice yourself and also ensure that the clergy person or pastor of rabbi do the same via the same Bermuda Government office, you can bring in someone qualified from where either one or both of you live, to perform the wedding ceremony. In such circumstances, weddings can be in places other than local religious centers, if you can find a minister to do so (not easy if you are not local, you may need to consult a wedding planner). In all individual cases where a visiting priest or rabbi performs a marriage, a public notice of an "Appointment of a Marriage Officer" appears in a numbered Bermuda Government announcement in the Bermuda Official Gazette. It shows that the Minister of Labour, Home Affairs & Public Safety licenses the priest or rabbi of the publicly specified church or temple or synagogue or congregation to perform a marriage ceremony in Bermuda on the specified day. But understand that you may be asked to pay the transportation, accommodation, food and other costs and expenses of the religious person you arrange to bring in for the ceremony, or the relevant expenses of any local minister or equivalent.
- In Bermuda, appointments of Justices of the Peace do not include authority to perform weddings, so they are not licensed to do so unless they are also a local minister or priest of a recognized church and licensed to perform weddings. Persons licensed by the Bermuda Government to conduct marriages are ministers of a particular religion with the sole exception of the Registrar of Marriages.
Bonaire:
www.infobonaire.com/weddings.html
A Dream Wedding on Bonaire
Dreaming about a wedding on the beach? Or getting married underwater?
Or a traditional wedding in the beautiful Passagrahan building (courthouse)?
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Wedding Guests
Photo Courtesy of
Michael Gaynor |
Well, you've come to the right place. Bonaire offers the ultimate setting for the most romantic day of your lives. To make your wedding arrangements even simpler, contact one of the companies below for expert guidance and services. A number of resorts offer packages and Honeymoon Specials.
You need to allow four to six weeks for all the paper work. One of the couple needs to procure a temporary residency permit from immigration. To apply for a temporary residency permit the following are required:
- 2 Passport photos of the Bride & Groom (and any witnesses being brought to the island, if applicable)
- Photo copy of first page of passport (Signature & Photo page)
- Date of arrival on Bonaire
- Intended length of stay on Bonaire
For the official marriage petition the following documents are required for both the bride and groom:
- Photo copy of first page of passport (Signature & Photo page)
- Original Birth Certificate endorsed with an Apostille
- Declaration of Marital Status by the Civil Registry
- If divorced or widowed, divorce decree or document of proof is required.

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Carriage ride to the reception
Photo Courtesy of Multro Travel |
If you choose to bring witnesses from home, they should also apply for temporary residency. Your island coordinator can also arrange for local witnesses.
After arrival on Bonaire, it takes four working days to arrange for all the forms to be processed. If you are arriving on a Saturday or Sunday and the following Monday happens to be a holiday, you will have to wait the four working days until you are able to marry and there may be a problem getting the permission arranged on time. It is advisable to check with the agency that handled your papers as to the holiday schedules. The best suggestion is to allow a full week for the papers to go through. There is much to see and do here so an extra day or two will be an additional bonus to your happy occasion.
With respect to the original birth certificates required of the bride and groom, these must be issued by the state or province of birth, feature a raised seal, have the names of both the mother and the father on them, and for citizens of the U.S., Canada, Colombia, Peru, Venezuela, or the United Kingdom, must have an Apostille affixed to them. An Apostille is an internationally recognized validation of a certificate or document, and is only issued by the office of vital statistics located within the state or province capital office (in the U.S. this would be your state's Secretary of State). Declarations of civil status and divorce or widow decrees must also be affixed with an Apostille.
Note that all certificates must be originals and have been issued no more than six months prior. The passports used must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended departure date from Bonaire. Your Bonaire Wedding coordinator can help you understand all these requirements in greater detail as well.
British Virgin Islands
www.bviweddings.com/
Documents Required to be Married in the British Virgin Islands
To become legally married in the BVI you are required to provide:
• Your Passport
• The Original (Certified Copy) of a divorce or death decree
(if applicable) from a former marriage.
Without a divorce or death decree your wedding may be delayed!
Cayman Islands
cayman.com.ky/visiting/weddings.htm
Marriage licence checklist
- A non-resident's marriage licence;
- A letter from the authorized Marriage Officer who is to officiate;
- Proof of citizenship and age (18 is the minimum legal age without parental consent);
- Proof of marital status (if necessary).
For a guide to everything you need to know and a list of authorized Marriage Officers, order the helpful, free 'Getting Married in The Cayman Islands' brochure, available from Government Information Services, (345) 949-8092.
Curacaos - website link has changed
http://www.curacao.com/
Wedding License Requirements
Before getting married, there are some requirements you need to fulfill. Please contact a wedding professional to give you further information. Usually, wedding professionals can take care of everything, down to the smallest detail, so it's best to contact them first, before making any arrangements.
License requirements |
Send a written marriage petition to the town hall. |
The letter has to be signed by both partners. |
Send two wedding dates with times. |
Birth certificates with the parents' names. |
International declaration of unmarried status by the civil registration of your hometown and an apostille/legalization. |
If divorced or widowed, bring a copy of divorce decree or a death certificate plus an apostille/ legalization of proof required.
{Apostilleà form of legalization. This has to be done at the Netherlands embassy in your country of residence.} |
Please note that none of these documents can be older than 6 months by the time of the wedding. |
If you choose to bring a witness from home, he or she must be 21 years of age. When you register a witness you need their full names, address and date of birth.
The witness will need a copy of valid passport. The witnesses should apply for temporary residence. The wedding planner can also arrange for local witnesses. |
Photocopy of passports. |
These requirements need to be original and recent and apostille. |
The following nationalities do not require legalization:
| 1. Aruba |
7. Netherlands |
2. Italy |
8. Turkey |
3. Austria |
9. France |
4. Luxembourg |
10.Belgium |
5. Germany |
11.Netherlands Antilles |
6. Portugal |
12.Switzerland |
Wedding Applications
- Your wedding documents need to be with your wedding planner at least 2 months before the wedding date.
- After approval from the wedding planner, you will receive the approval from the civil registration.
- The wedding planner will take care of the identification at the city hall for confirmation with your passport and return ticket. (At least 3 days before your wedding day).
- You will need to be on Curaçao at least 3 days before your wedding.
Dominica:
www.caribbeanchoice.com/dominica/weddings.asp
Wedding Fees:
- Registrars Office Wedding - $30.00 EC
- Outside Registrar's Office - $100.00 EC
- Marriage License - $300.00 EC
- Marital Status Declaration - $500.00 EC
(Marital Status Declaration can be obtained from any lawyer in Dominica.)
Requirements:
http://www.dominicanrepublic.com/Tourism/english/travelguide/getting_married.htm
Weddings and honeymoons set a moment of our lives. With no doubt, real love deserves the frame provided by the colors of the sunset in the Caribbean or the different shades of the blue waters of the ocean. Because of the combination of this beautiful images, is the reason why many couples are choosing to get married in the Dominican Republic or experience their honeymoon.
The resorts of Sosúa, Puerto Plata, Playa Dorada, Playa Grande, Punta Cana, Bavaro, Macao, Juan Dolio, Boca Chica, Samaná, Bayahibe and La Romana have the expert staff to plan and coordinate the perfect wedding for you. The mayority of the wedding packages in the resorts include the judge, wedding license, flowers, music, the traditional cake, champagne, and those special details for your room.
A sunny beach is the perfect and exotic scenario for the wedding reception. Exotic flower arrangements are the perfect touch to complete the ambiance of this special event. Your guests will be very grateful to share this unforgettable moment with you.
It is recommendable to start planning your wedding six months in advanced. The hotels prefer that you give them a three months notice in order to make the necessary reservations for the judge and events areas as well as all the details for the occasion.
Start your wedding with the pre-nuptial breakfast. The hotel will be pleased to separate a special area for you and your guests. Later, enjoy a great massage, or spend some time at the spa of the resort and then go to the beauty salon for a nice hair do, manicure and make up. If the hotel does not offer these facilities you can make the arrangements so an stylist can visit you in your own room.
Dominican Republic
http://www.dominicanrepublic.com/Tourism/english/travelguide/getting_married.html ***Drop the l in html to get into site***
Documents Required to Get Married in the Dominican Republic
1. To Obtain the Marriage License
- Passport
- Birth certificate (original)
- Single certification (in Spanish)
- Divorce certificate in Spanish (if previously married)
Two witnesses are required. In case they are foreigners, they should be identified with their passports. If Dominican, personal ID will be sufficient.
2. After the Wedding
- The judge will have the marriage certificate ready one day after the wedding. This document has legal validity.
Jamaica
http://www.sunvillas.com
General Information on Jamaican Weddings
A Jamaican villa wedding can be the experience of a lifetime and at a cost less than that of a US based wedding or resort wedding. See some comments from returning wedding guests about their wedding experience.
Waiting Period
A couple can be married just 24 hours after arriving in Jamaica providing they have applied for and have been granted a marriage license by the Ministry of National Security. Couples must submit proof of status (single, divorced, widowed) and establish identification.
Houses of Worship in Ocho Rios
- Ocho Rios Baptist (876) 972-2405
- St. John's Anglican (Episcopal) (876) 972-2305
- Methodist (876) 974-1420
- Our Lady of Fatima (Catholic) (876) 974-2384 (876) 972-2279, which has a beautiful location overlooking the sea.
- Church of God of Prophecy (876) 974-2902
- Prospect Plantation Chapel, private and very lovely.
Minimum Rental
A one-week minimum rental rate is required for the villa where the wedding and associated events are to take place.
When to Hold the Ceremony
We recommend just prior to sunset...with the reception starting under the beautiful Jamaican sunset and growing into a romantic candlelight evening. Winter months sunset is around 6:00. Summer months, sunset is about 6:45. Schedule the ceremony 30 minutes earlier.
Group Size
Holding your wedding at a villa helps keep reception costs down. The villa staff can handle a reception party of the villa capacity (plus one or two additional guests). Whether a seated dinner or poolside buffet, the bride is only paying for the groceries for a menu upon which she and the cook agree. The cook will suggest various options, from merely finger food to a formal dinner.
For groups larger than the villa capacity we suggest working with a wedding coordinator who will help organizing the event. The general guidelines for larger functions are:
Dinners and receptions: Maximum of villa capacity (plus one or two additional guests) can be accommodated by the villa staff. Over that we require an outside caterer that can be organized by your wedding coordinator.
Parties and weddings: Permission must be obtained in advance. Each villa is somewhat different so we ask that you request our guidelines on the villa of your choice.
Surcharges: Some villas require a location fee or a per person surcharge for guests in excess of the normal capacity of the villa., and/or a damage deposit.
Location Fees:
- Sugar Bay - $750
- Villa Viento - $500 for under 100 guests, $1000 for 100-150 guests
- $15 Per Person Surcharge: Emerald Seas, Endless Summer, Keela Wee, Sea Grapes, Sweet Spot
- $100 Per Person Surcharge: Fortlands Point
- Damage Deposit: Endless Summer - $1,000, Greatview - $2,000
Please note the following villas do not allow weddings or other functions: A Summer Place, Amanoka, Rio Chico and Sundown.
The Wedding Cake
The Jamaican Wedding Cake is like a Christmas pudding, made with dried fruits such as prunes, raisins, dates, currants, cherries, etc. These fruits are finely chopped and marinated in wine and rum for weeks. This wonderful blend forms the base of your cake mixture. Fresh flowers and a white creamy frosting laced with rum top the cake. The Jamaican Wedding cake costs US$100 - 450, depending on the size. Other cake options would be white, chocolate or coconut cake or rum cake. Price for the plain cake would be approximately $200 for a two tier and $300 for a 3 tier cake.
JAMAICA MARRIAGE LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
Your Wedding in Jamaica - Romantic and Uncomplicated
All paperwork is initiated by your wedding coordinator prior to arrival in Jamaica. Any wedding that our wedding coordinators organize in Jamaica is legally recognized by the United States, its' territories, the United Kingdom and Canada.
Documents Required:
- Proof of citizenship - Notarized copy of birth certificate.
- Proof of divorce (if applicable) - Notarized copy or original Certificate of Divorce.
- Notarized copy of Death Certificate in the case of widow/widower.
- Notarized copy of Adoption papers reflecting name change.
- Legal translation of documents to English where originals are in another language.
Blood Test: None required
Processing of Documents:
- All documents must be sent to your wedding coordinator at least thirty (30) days prior to the wedding date. We can expedite if necessary with 14 days minimum. You can FAX or FedEx directly to your specific wedding coordinator.
- A copy of the Marriage Certificate is given to the bride/groom upon conclusion of the ceremony by the marriage officer.
- Two (2) certified copies of the Marriage Certificate are sent to you within eight (8) weeks following the ceremony.
JAMAICAN LAW STIPULATES THAT WEDDINGS MUST BE PERFORMED BEFORE 6PM. LAWS, REQUIREMENTS AND FEES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF JAMAICA
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Puerto Rico
http://www.gotopuertorico.com/puerto-rico-weddings-honeymoons.php
Website has no real information. It seems to be incomplete.
St. Barts:
http://www.st-barths.com/guidepgs/practical.html
Getting married in St. Barths
While it is impossible for anyone other than St. Barths residents to have a civil marriage ceremony in St. Barths, a lot of people of many nationalities with a close connection to St. Barths do decide to have their Christian marriage or wedding blessing on the island.

St. Bartholomew's Anglican Church is willing to discuss the possibility of holding wedding services, but sufficient notice must be given in time for the necessary preparations. The Anglican Church undertakes weddings in both English and French but does not provide for wedding services outside of the Church. The priest, Revd Charles Vere Nicoll, lives on the island and can help with enquiries - Tel: (59) 05 90 29 74 63.

Other couples have chosen to have other forms of wedding celebration on the island: on the beach, in a beautiful villa, in one of the island' restaurants or on a chartered yacht.

The services of excellent photographers, florists, musicians, caterers as well as an American wedding organizer are available on the island.
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St. Lucia:
http://www.stkittstourism.kn/Weddings/Tying_Knot.asp
(website address changed)

Getting married in St.Kitts is very easy. Red tape is kept to a minimum. No residency is required. Couples are only required to obtain a marriage license in St.Kitts and have the following documents:
A valid passport or photo ID.
Original or certified copy of Birth Certificate.
If you have never been married before, an Affidavit confirming single status.
If divorced, a decree absolute (an original or certified copy showing court's stamp or seal) must be presented.
If widowed, a copy of the death certificate of the deceased spouse must be presented.
If documents are not in English they must be accompanied by a notarized translation.
If a catholic priest is to perform the ceremony:
Couple must receive marriage counselling sessions from their parish priest and submit the required Catholic documents. A letter must come from the couple's resident priest verifying that they are unmarried and that they have received the necessary instructions. All Catholic weddings take place in the church.
If an Anglican or other minister of religion is to perform the ceremony:
It is recommended that a letter be brought from the couple's resident minister verifying that they are known and unmarried.
There are two types of marriage licences that are available on the island:
Ordinary Licence: one of you has to be resident in St. Kitts for 15 days preceding the date of the application for the licence. The cost for this licence is EC$50
Special Licence: one of you has to be resident in St. Kitts or Nevis for two working days prior to the date of your wedding. The cost for this licence is EC$200
Ceremonies:
Your ceremony can be held in the grounds of your hotel, in a church of almost any denomination, amongst historic ruins, in a rustic gazebo in a picturesque garden and, of course, on the beach.
Marriage Times :
6a.m. – 6p.m. for ceremonies presided over by a religious person.
8a.m. - 6p.m. if performed by a Magistrate.
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