Grand Bahama Vacations

Marriage License Requirements

Saying “I do” is not the only proof that you are a married couple. You must obtain a marriage license to wed on our beautiful island. There are several requirements for obtaining a marriage license in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas:

Application for License

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

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 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. Your wedding planner or marriage officer can assist you with this.

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 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 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 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.

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 which includes one certified copy of a marriage certificate. Extra marriage certificates are available at $20 each.

For more information, please contact:

The Assistant Registrar General of The Bahamas
P.O. Box F-42602
Freeport, Grand Bahama Island, Bahamas
Telephone 242-352-4934/7

Or

The Weddings and Honeymoon Unit of the Ministry of Tourism:
From the United States:
Phone: (888) NUPTIALS (687-8425)
E-mail: romance@bahamas.com

From Canada:
Phone: (905) 672-9017 or (800) 667-3777
E-mail: romanceinfo@bahamas.com