Bahamas

Language: English

Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time
Currency: Dollar (BSD)
Airports: Grand Bahama Airport (FPO/MYGF), Nassau International Airport (NAS/MYNN), Rock Sound Airport (RSD/MYER), Exuma International Airport (MYEF)
Activities: Beaches, Shopping, Diving, Casinos

There are 700 Islands of Bahamas sprinkled over 100,000 square miles of ocean starting just 50 miles off the coast of Florida. The archipelago is an ecological oasis featuring 2,000 breathtaking islands and cays and boasts the clearest water on the planet—with a visibility of over 200 feet. You can see your toes as easily as you can the world’s third largest barrier reef.

We invite you to explore all of our islands. One step and you’ll realize the beauty of each island extends far beyond our extraordinary natural wonders. It’s the smiles on the faces of the Bahamian people. The unique sounds of our rich culture. The warm hospitality of our heritage and our colorful history.

Source: Bahamas.com

 

Marriage Requirements

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.

 

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 will assist you in this regard.

 

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.

 

Marrying in The Out Islands

Couples wishing to be married on The Out Islands (any island outside of New Providence and Grand Bahama) can obtain a Marriage License 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 a marriage license is $120 inclusive of one certified copy of a marriage certificate. Extra marriage certificates are available at $20 each.

 

Apostilles are $10 each.

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.

 

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

Source: www.bahamas.com