Step 1: Schedule Your Arrival Properly

I always tell my couples to arrive at least 72 hours before their wedding day. Here's why:

• 24 hours for the residency requirement
• 24-48 hours for license processing
• Extra buffer time for any unexpected issues

Glenn's Pro Tip: If you're flying in, try to arrive in the morning rather than late afternoon. This gives you a full first day, making your 24-hour wait more efficient.

Step 2: Locate the Correct Government Office

Depending on which island you're getting married on, you'll need to visit:

• Nassau, New Providence: Corner of Shirley & Parliament Streets, downtown (across from the Cenotaph)
• Freeport, Grand Bahama: Administrator's Office in the Government Complex, The Mall Drive
• Other islands: Local Administrator's Office (sometimes called Commissioner's Office)

Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM (closed on holidays and for lunch 1:00-2:00 PM)

Glenn's Pro Tip: Avoid Wednesdays if possible as cruise ship passengers flood the offices, creating long wait times. Early mornings (9:30-10:30 AM) generally have the shortest lines.

Step 3: Complete Your Application Together

Both of you must appear together to complete:

• Bahamas Marriage License Application Form  (Application for Marriage License)
• Affidavit confirming you're eligible to marry
• Declaration of your time in the Bahamas

Glenn's Pro Tip: Dress neatly for your application visit. While there's no formal dress code, respectful attire sets a good impression with government officials who have discretionary power.

Step 4: Pay Your Fees

The current government fees for 2025 are:

• Standard processing (24-48 hours): $100.00 USD 
• Priority Bahamas Marriage License Application Express service(within 1- hour)

Glenn's Pro Tip: Bring exact cash in either USD or Bahamian dollars. Not all offices accept credit cards, and getting change can further delay the process.

Step 5: Return to Collect Your License

You'll need to return to the same office for standard processing to pick up your license. Bring your receipt and identification.

Glenn's Pro Tip: If you're on a tight schedule, the Priority Bahamas Marriage License Application express service is worth it. I've seen standard processing take the full 48 hours during busy seasons.

My Insider Tips for a Smooth Process

Cruise Ship Passengers: Special Considerations

If you're arriving on a cruise ship, you face unique challenges. Over the years, I've helped many cruise passengers, and here's what you need to know:

• Your ship must be in Bahamian waters for at least 24 hours before you can apply
• Many itineraries don't allow enough time in port
• You may need to arrive on a separate cruise before your wedding cruise

Glenn's Pro Tip: If you're on a cruise, consider Nassau as your second stop in the Bahamas which always makes it easier to have your legal wedding on a cruise. And with our Priority Application service, I'll meet you at the port as soon as you're there and handle the entire government process while you enjoy your vacation.

Same-Sex Couples

The Bahamas currently does not issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples. If this applies to you, I recommend considering a symbolic ceremony in the Bahamas and legal marriage in your home country.

After Your License is Issued

Your Bahamas marriage license is valid for 90 days. During your ceremony, I'll complete the certificate portion and collect signatures from:

• Both of you (using your legal names exactly as on your documents)
• Two witnesses (must be over 18)
• Myself as your Licensed Bahamas Marriage Officer

After your wedding, I'll:

• Register your marriage with the Civil Registry
• Secure your official marriage certificate
• Provide guidance on getting your marriage recognized back home

Glenn's Pro Tip: Get at least 2-3 certified copies of your marriage certificate. You'll need these for name changes, immigration, and various legal purposes back home.

1. How long does it take to get a Bahamas marriage license?

Standard processing takes 24-48 hours. In my experience, during peak season (December-April), it almost always takes the full 48 hours. Express service is available for same-day processing if you apply before noon.

2. Can we apply for our license online or through our resort?

Yes, you can use the Priority Bahamas Marriage License Application form on this page to get started. While both of you must appear in person, we complete 90 percent of the required paperwork before you arrive in The Bahamas.  So you get your Bahamas marriage license within 1 hour.

3. What's the difference between a marriage license and a marriage certificate?

I explain it to my couples this way: The license is your permission to get married. The certificate is proof that you did get married. Your license transforms into a certificate when it's signed during your ceremony. You can apply for your Bahamas marriage certificate online as well using the form on this page below.

4. Can we get married the same day we arrive in the Bahamas?

No. The earliest possible wedding day is the next day after arrival, assuming you apply immediately after your 24-hour waiting period and use the express service.