Bahamas Marriage License Service

Call or WhatsApp 1-(242)-395-8495

Bahamas Marriage License Guide: Complete Requirements & Process [2025]

Call or WhatsApp 1-(242)-395-8495 for Marriage License in Bahamas services

As a WPIC certified Bahamas wedding planner and licensed Marriage Officer with 24 years of experience, I've helped hundreds of couples with the Bahamas marriage license process. I've seen what works, what doesn't, and how to avoid the common pitfalls that can derail your destination wedding.

Let me walk you through exactly what you need to know about getting your Bahamas marriage license in 2025.

Understanding the Bahamas Marriage License: What You Need to Know

After officiating over 300 weddings in the Bahamas, I can tell you that understanding these requirements up front will save you significant stress later:

The 24-Hour Residency Requirement

You and your partner must both be physically present in the Bahamas for at least 24 hours before applying for your marriage license. I've seen couples fly in and immediately try to apply, only to be turned away.

Glenn's Pro Tip: Arrive in the Bahamas at least 3 days before your wedding date. This gives you enough time to meet the 24-hour requirement, apply for your license, and account for any unexpected delays in processing.

Documentation You'll Need to Bring

After reviewing thousands of marriage applications, here's exactly what you need:

For Everyone:

  • Valid passports (with at least 6 months before they expire)
  • Birth certificates with raised seals or certified copies
  • Immigration stamps in your passport or tourist cards
  • Proof of where you're staying in the Bahamas (hotel confirmation)

If You've Been Married Before:

  • Original divorce papers with court seal (if divorced)
  • Final judgment of divorce (absolute decree)
  • Death certificate of former spouse (if widowed)
  • Proof of annulment (if applicable)

If Your Name Has Changed:

  • Legal papers showing name changes from birth certificate
  • Deed poll documentation
  • Statutory declaration of name change

Glenn's Pro Tip: I've seen many couples delayed because they brought photocopies instead of originals. Bring the actual documents with official seals. If they're not in English, get certified translations before your trip.

Complete the application below to get our 1-hour priority express service.

The Bahamas Marriage License Application Process: My Step-by-Step Guide

Call or WhatsApp 1-(242)-395-8495 to Get Bahamas Marriage License

Bahamas Marriage License Application

 

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.

Let Me Handle Your Bahamas Marriage License Process

Call or WhatsApp 1-(242)-395-8495 Today!

Bahamas Marriage License Process

 

After helping over 300 couples with their Bahamas wedding legalities, I've developed a premium service that eliminates the stress and saves your valuable vacation time.

My Bahamas Marriage License Priority Service includes:

  • Pre-trip document review to identify any issues
  • Transportation to and from government offices
  • Personal assistance throughout the application process
  • Expedited processing coordination
  • Direct delivery of your completed license to your hotel

My clients save an average of 6-8 hours of their vacation time and avoid the common pitfalls that can delay your wedding.

Ready to ensure your Bahamas wedding is legally perfect? Contact me today to book your marriage license priority service and eliminate this stress from your wedding planning.

Don't leave the legal foundation of your marriage to chance. After 24 years and hundreds of weddings, I've seen how proper preparation makes all the difference between a stressful process and a smooth, joyful experience.

Looking for comprehensive wedding planning beyond just your marriage license? Schedule your free consultation to discuss my full-service Bahamas wedding planning packages.

Common Questions My Clients Ask About Bahamas Marriage License

Got Questions? Call or WhatsApp 1-(242)-395-8495

 

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.

 

Bahamas Marriage Certificate

Call or WhatsApp 1-(242)-395-8495 to Get Copy of Bahamas Marriage Certificate

Bahamas Marriage Certificate Application

Call or WhatsApp 1-(242)-395-8495 to Get Copy of Marriage Certificate Bahamas

Bahamas marriage certificate

Need a copy of your Bahamas marriage certificate? Glenn Ferguson can help! He is a licensed marriage officiant and wedding planner who can assist you with obtaining a certified copy of your marriage certificate. Contact him today to learn more.

Get a copy of your Bahamas marriage certificate quickly and easily with Glenn Ferguson, a licensed Bahamas marriage officiant and wedding planner. Call or WhatsApp 1-(242)-395-8495 today to get started!

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