Barbados is the ideal location for your Caribbean Wedding. Whether your big day is set on one of the idyllic beaches, or you opt for a more traditional setting in one of the many historic churches, Barbados offers a wide range of options for when you “tie the knot.”
Our Government makes it easy…you can get married the same day you arrive! Unlike some islands, there is no waiting period or residency requirement. Both parties must apply for a license in person at the office of the Ministry of Home Affairs in Bridgetown. The only required paperwork is a valid passport or original or certified birth certificate. The fee is BDS$150 and a $25 stamp. Two witnesses are also required at the ceremony, and a wedding planner can help with this if you do not have attendants accompanying you.

Whatever your idea of a dream wedding, the beauty and relaxed environment that is Barbados will ensure that your wedding in Paradise is truly unforgettable.

Getting Married in Barbados

Let us help you with the details…

Here are the requirements which need to be fulfilled when applying for a marriage license.  You are not required to reside in Barbados prior to the application for the license.  In fact, it is possible for a couple to arrive in Barbados, apply for their marriage license and get married all in the same day!

Your wedding in Barbados is so easy to arrange and truly Just beyond your imagination!

Documentation

The general requirements are as follows:-
Additional requirements for marriage in the Roman Catholic Church only are outlined later on this page.

1. Valid passports and the original or certified copies of the applicant’s Birth Certificates.
2. If either party was married previously and widowed, a certified copy of the marriage certificate and death Certificate in respect of the deceased spouse will be required.
3. If either party was divorced, an original Decree Absolute or a certified copy of the Final Judgement is required, NOT the Decree Nisi.  If the Degree Absolute is in a language other than English, it must be accompanied by a certified translation.
4. A letter, or written indication, from the marriage officer, including the church to which he belongs, who has agreed to perform the marriage ceremony.

A marriage may be solemnized immediately after the issue of the license.

Fees

(Approximate rate of exchange is CDN$1=BDS$1.96)

If neither the bride nor the groom is a citizen or resident of Barbados, the license fee is BDS$150 cash and a $25 stamp.  A further fee of BDS$250 cash must be paid at the Court if a Magistrate is performing the ceremony.  If the ceremony is performed by the Magistrate outside the Courts, the cost is BDS$350 cash.  If either is a citizen of Barbados, the fee is BDS$45 cash and a $10 stamp.
If a Minister of Religion is performing the ceremony, a fee is privately arranged.

Where do we apply?

Application for a marriage license must be made by the bride and groom in person at the office of the Ministry of Home Affairs, 5th floor, General Post Office Building, Cheapside, Bridgetown, St. Michael between the hours of 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Monday to Friday.

Requirements to get married in the Roman Catholic Church

The Pre Marital Enquiry must be completed and signed by the pride and groom.

1. Baptismal Certificates issued within the past six months indicating that both are free to marry.
2. A signed statement of Freedom to Marry by the Parish Priest(s) of the couple.
3. A Certificate of Participation in a programme of preparation for marriage.
4. In the case of a mixed marriage, permission to marry or dispensation from Disparity of Cult issued by the Bishop of your diocese.
5. In the event that a previous marriage was contracted, a Death Certificate or a Declaration of Nullity is required.
6. Testimonial Letters from the Bishop of your diocese.
7. A Record of Confirmation.

All of these documents must be sent be the Bishop of your diocese to the Bishop of Bridgetown.

Prior Arrangements

Arrangements should be made with a marriage officer (a Magistrate or a Minister of religion authorized to be a Marriage Officer) prior to the completion of an application form for the license.  A letter from the Marriage Officer who has consented to perform the marriage ceremony should be presented at the time of filing the application.

Any Questions?

If you need further information on getting married in Barbaods, Contact you travel agent or call Barbados Tourism Authority, 416-214-9880 / toll free 1-800-268-9122, visitbarbados.org or idbarbados.com  

Contact us today for more information about booking your Bajan Wedding