Weddings and Honeymoons

Bahamas island style weddings have in recent years become more accessible to couples looking to add an “exotic spin” to their special ceremony. Properly planned, an island wedding can not only save you upwards of $20,000 off the cost of a traditional wedding, it can also turn your island wedding day into an unforgettable “mini-vacation” for you and your guests.

While some people prefer to get married at sunset by the water, others may choose to exchange their vows amidst the foliage of one of the botanical parks or one of The Bahamas’ charming historical churches. Regardless of which setting is most amenable for you and yours, there’s certainly a dream caribbean wedding location suitable to all tastes. There are plenty of accommodation choices to house family, friends and guests – from lavish full service boutique resorts to cozy inns, cottages and rental villas.

Caribbean weddings are very easy to plan in the Bahamas, especially when you choose to work with the consultants at a local resort on the island you have chosen to be the “Place”. Keep it simple and take advice from the resort managers who will work with you every step of the way in creating the island wedding of your dreams.

Marriage Requirements:

Application For Licence

The couple must be in The Bahamas at the time of application for the marriage license.

Residency Period

Couples may apply a day after their arrival and can be married once they receive their approved license the day after application.

Divorced

If either party has been divorced, the original final decree or a certified copy must be produced. Where applicable, a translated, certified and notarised copy of the final decree must be produced.

Widowed

If either party is widowed, the original death certificate, or certified copy, must be produced. Where applicable, a translated, certified and notarised copy of the death certificate must be produced.

Single Persons

If either party is single and never been married before, a declaration certifying this fact must be sworn before a notary public or other person authorised to administer oaths in the country of residence. This document must accompany the application for the marriage license. This declaration can also be obtained in The Bahamas from an attorney-at-law or notary public.

Minors

Minors (under 18 years) may be married with both parents’ consent. Consent forms for minors are available at the Registrar General’s office.

Marrying In The Bahamas

Persons desirous of being married in the Bahamas (any island outside of New Providence and Grand Bahama) can obtain a Marriage Licence at the Administrator’s Office on that island.

Proof Of Identification And Residency

Both parties must produce a valid passport, birth certificate and photo ID. The parties must also produce evidence of the date of their arrival in The Bahamas. The Bahamas Immigration Card or entry stamp in your passport will suffice.

Blood Test: 

No blood test is necessary.

Fees:

The fee for the license is $100; certified copies of a marriage certificate are $20.

Note: Marriage Licenses are issued at the office of the Registrar General in Nassau. This office is open to the public Mondays to Fridays between the hours of 9:30 a.m. Ð 4:00 p.m.

Registrars Offices

The registrar’s office should be contacted for specific rules regarding planning your destination or beach wedding in Bahamas. They will also provide information regarding marriage licenses and marriage certificates.

Office of the Registrar General
PO Box N532
Rodney Bain Building
Parliament and Shirley Street
Nassau, The Bahamas

Tel: (242) 323-0594
(242) 323-0595,
(242) 323-0597

Fax: (242) 322-5553,
(242) 393-7908