WeddingRequirements & FAQ

There are several requirements for obtaining a marriage licence in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. Here's everything you need to know to be legally married here:

Application for licence

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

Marriage licence application Application for certified marriage certificate

If you arrive via cruise ship, you'll be required to obtain a letter from the Ship's Purser/Guest Services confirming that you have met the residency period by being in Bahamian waters for 24 hours.

You need not apply for a licence if you wish to renew your vows.

Please note: For couples getting married in Nassau, marriage licences and certificates are issued at the office on 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. Advanced license application appointment is required.

Address: P.O. Box N-532 Nassau, The Bahamas

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

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

Residency Period

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

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 will suffice.

Blood Test

No blood test is necessary.

Witnesses

Two witnesses, who are at least 18 years old, must sign your marriage licence.  If it's just the two of you, witnesses can be provided.

Fees

The fee for a marriage licence is $120, inclusive of one certified copy of a marriage certificate. Extra marriage certificates are available at $20 each.

Can I get married the same day as my arrival in The Islands of The Bahamas?

No, both parties must have resided in The Commonwealth of The Bahamas for not less than one day prior to the date of the application.

How long will it take to get a marriage licence?

It takes two business days, excluding Bahamian holidays.

Can I get a licence the same day if I arrive by cruise ship?

Yes, exceptions are made for individuals arriving by cruise ship, once you have met the 24-hour residency requirement and have your letter from the Purser's Office/Guest Services, signed by your ship's captain, confirming the same.

Would my marriage licence be legal in my country?

Yes, the Bahamas marriage licence is a legal document issued by the Bahamas Government.

Can I apply for a marriage licence by mail?

No, both parties must be in The Commonwealth of The Bahamas at the time of the application.

Would I be able to use my marriage licence from my country?

No, only the Bahamian marriage licence is legal in The Commonwealth of The Bahamas.

Can my Pastor/Rabbi perform the wedding ceremony?

The ceremony must be performed by a local Pastor, however your Pastor/Rabbi is welcome to assist.

Can I have a non-denominational or non-religious ceremony?

Yes. Your consultant or marriage officer can show you a variety of options for a traditional, religious or strictly legal union.

I would like to get married in the Out Islands. Do I need to come to Nassau for a marriage licence?

No, you can obtain a marriage licence at the Administrator's Office on that island.

When can I get married?

Weddings must be performed between sunrise and sunset.

Can I get married over the weekend?

Yes, you can get married on Saturday or Sunday, provided you make an application during the working days of Thursday or Friday.

Why do I need a certified copy of the marriage certificate?

It is required by many lending institutions and insurance companies. Also, if the wife now wishes to have a passport with the married surname.

Do I need a licence for a Vow Renewal?

No, you do not need a licence for a Vow Renewal.

Can I rent wedding attire in The Bahamas?

There are several stores offering complete rental attire. Please allow sufficient time to make those arrangements.

Below is some additional information regarding getting married in The Bahamas.

Apostille

Many countries now require that official documents, such as international marriage certificates, be certified by the issuing country. In The Commonwealth of The Bahamas, this means that an Apostille (a special seal) is applied by the relevant authority to certify that a document is a true copy of an original. The Apostille can be made available to you within 5-7 days of the request through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). Apostille application forms must be accompanied with a certified marriage certificate. The cost for each one is $120, which must be paid for in advance. Your wedding planner or marriage officer will assist you in this regard.

Apostille From

Expedited payment options include:

• One Day expedited; an additional $120
• Two Hour expedited; an additional $300

Expedited payments must be made by 11:00 am. Contact details are as follows:

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Consular Division

East Hill Street P.O. Box 3746

Nassau, The Bahamas

Tel: (242) 323-5565 or (242) 323-5578

Email: consularassistance@bahamas.gov.bs

Divorced

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

Minors

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

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 licence. This declaration can also be obtained in The Commonwealth of The Bahamas from an attorney-at-law or notary public.

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.

Marrying Outside of New Providence and Grand Bahama Island

Couples wishing to be married on islands outside of New Providence (Nassau & Paradise Island) and Grand Bahama Island (Freeport) can obtain a marriage licence at the Administrator's Office on that island.