Frequently Asked Questions
You are coming to a foreign country to celebrate one of the most important days of your life, your wedding. I want you to have as much information as possible as to what do you need to do so that the journey would be smooth and enjoyable. After all, we want to ensure that while you are here you feel as though you are at home in this tropical paradise, The Bahamas. So, let’s continue this journey. Listed are some things that you need to know.
What are the requirements to get married in The Bahamas?
Application for License
The couple must be in The Islands Of The Bahamas at the time of application for the marriage license. If you arrive via cruise ship you will be required to obtain a letter from the ship's purser, confirming that you have met the residency period by being in Bahamian waters for twenty-four hours. You need not apply for a license if you wish to renew your vows. Once the license is applied for, it is usually ready by the following day. You do not have to personally pick up your license; this is a service that I can also provide for you as I would need to have it to sign all documents with you on your wedding day. Please note that a marriage license is valid for three months so this gives you time to plan ahead if you wish to apply before your arrival and I will be happy to assist you with this matter. I can also arrange transportation to and from the Registrar because I want this to be a relaxing time for you.
Apostille
Many countries now require that official documents, such as international marriage certificates, be certified by the issuing country. In The Bahamas, this means that an Apostille (a special seal) is applied by the relevant authority, The Ministry of Foreign Affairs to certify that a document is a true copy of an original. The Apostille can be made available to you within thirty days of the request. I would be happy to assist you with obtaining this seal and forwarding the completed documents to your home address.
Residency Period
Couples may apply a day after their arrival and can be married once they receive their approved license the day after application. The Registrar is closed on Saturday and Sunday so if you wish to be married on these days, you would need to apply for your license by the previous Thursday at the latest.
Divorced
If either party has been divorced, the original final decree or a certified copy must be produced. English is the official language of The Bahamas so where applicable, a translated, certified and notarized 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 notarized copy of the death certificate must be produced.
Single Persons
If either party is single and has never been married before, a declaration certifying this fact must be sworn before a notary public or other person authorized 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, notary public or justice of the peace and I can provide you with this service.
Minors
Minors (under 18 years) may be married with both parents' consent. Consent forms for minors are available at the Registrar General's office.
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 a marriage license is $120 and is payable to The Registrar, inclusive of one certified copy of a marriage certificate. A certified copy of your certificate is needed by The Ministry of Foreign Affairs to apply the Apostille stamp. Extra marriage certificates are available at $20 each. Please note that this is a Government and is in addition to our fees charged for ceremony service.Note: Marriage licenses are issued at the office of the Registrar General in Nassau. This office is open to the public Monday through Friday between the hours of 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
