Do I need to be in The Bahamas before I can apply for a marriage license (licence)?

Yes. Non-residents must be physically in The Bahamas for at least 24 hours before applying and must show proof of arrival (Immigration card or passport entry stamp).

What documents do we need for a Bahamas marriage license?

Valid passports for both parties; proof of arrival; and status-specific documents: affidavit of single-hood if never married; certified final divorce decree if divorced; death certificate if widowed; parental consent if under 18. A photo ID and/or birth certificate may be requested.

How much does a Bahamas marriage license cost?

The marriage license fee is typically US$120 and often includes one certified copy of the marriage certificate. Extra certified copies are US$20 each.

How long is the license valid and how fast can we get it?

Licenses are valid for 90 days. Processing is often next business day. Ask Glenn about his One-Hour Priority Marriage License Service for same-day readiness.

Who can officiate our ceremony and how many witnesses are required?

A licensed Marriage Officer may officiate. Two witnesses aged 18+ are required.

How do we get certified copies or an apostille of our Bahamas marriage certificate?

Certified copies may be requested from the Registrar General’s Department (cost US$20 per copy). If you need to use the certificate abroad, request an apostille.

Bahamas Marriage License 2025 — One-Hour Priority Service & Legal Wedding Guide

Q: Do we need a blood test?

No. Blood tests are not required for marriages in The Bahamas.

Q: Can foreigners get legally married in the Bahamas?

Yes. Non-resident foreign couples can have a legally recognized wedding in The Bahamas provided they meet the presence requirement, present valid documents, obtain a marriage license, and are married by a licensed Marriage Officer.

Q: Is a Bahamas marriage license and certificate valid internationally?

Yes. Your marriage certificate is issued by the Registrar General’s Department and is internationally recognized. If you will use it abroad for immigration or name change, request an apostille to simplify recognition in other countries.

Overview & What to Expect

Hi, I'm Glenn Ferguson. I have helped hundreds of couples get legally married in The Bahamas, here’s the short version: arrive, wait 24 hours (if you’re non-resident), apply together in person at the Registrar General’s Department, receive your marriage license (licence)—within an hour with our priority service —have your ceremony with two adult witnesses, and your Marriage Officer (me) registers your marriage. After that, you can order certified copies and, if needed, an apostille for use abroad.

Pro tip: If your wedding falls near a Bahamian public holiday, build in an extra day. Office hours and processing windows may shift during peak seasons.

Requirements & Documents

Residency / Presence

Non-residents must be in The Bahamas for at least 24 hours before applying.
Bring proof of arrival — the Bahamas Immigration card or your passport entry stamp.

Identification

Valid passports for both parties.
Photo ID (may be requested).
Some offices may ask to verify details with a birth certificate; carry it if possible.

Status-Specific Documents

Never married: Affidavit of single-hood (must be done in The Bahamas).
Divorced: Certified final divorce decree (raised seal).
Widowed: Death certificate of former spouse.
Under 18: Parental consent (notarized).

Other Notes

No blood test is required.
Both parties must apply together in person; you cannot apply by mail.
This is the official wedding paperwork for foreigners marrying in The Bahamas.

How to Apply for Your Marriage License (Licence)

Arrive in The Bahamas and maintain proof of your arrival date.
Wait 24 hours (non-residents) before applying.
Apply in person at the Registrar General’s Department (both partners present). In some cases, a brief interview may be required.
Pay the licence fee. The fee is US$120 (often includes one certified copy of the marriage certificate). Extra certified copies are typically US$20 each.
Processing time. Most licences are issued the next business day (occasionally same-day depending on volume and office hours).
Validity. Licences are valid for 90 days.

Note: Always bring originals and one photocopy set of each document. Names must match passports exactly.

Apply for Your License Ask Glenn (Book a Call)

Ceremony Rules (Officiant, Witnesses, Signing)

Your ceremony must be officiated by a licensed Marriage Officer.
You need two witnesses aged 18+.
Your Marriage Officer will ensure the licence and register are properly signed and returned for registration.

Registration & Certified Copies

After your ceremony, I file the paperwork with the Registrar General’s Department (Marriages Section). Once registered, you can request certified copies of your marriage certificate (US$20 each).

If you plan to use the certificate abroad (e.g., name change, immigration), request an apostille with your order so your certificate is recognized in other countries.

Suggested Timeline & Checklist

High-Level Timeline

Arrive in The Bahamas (keep your Immigration card/entry stamp).
Wait 24 hours (non-residents).
Apply for your marriage licence (both present).
Receive licence (often next business day).
Have your ceremony with two witnesses (18+).
Marriage is registered by your Marriage Officer.
Order certified copies (and apostille if needed).

Bring These Documents

Passports (both partners).
Proof of arrival (Immigration card or passport stamp).
Photo IDs (if requested).
Affidavit of single-hood / divorce decree / death certificate / parental consent (as applicable).
Cash/credit for fees.

Helpful: Bahamas Marriage License Checklist (PDF)

FAQs (Short Answers)

Do we need a blood test?

No.

Can we apply online or by mail?

Yes — you can start online here: Bahamas Marriage License Application. (Both parties must still meet presence/ID requirements.)

How fast can we get the licence?

Marriage licences are issued by the next business day — but if you're on a tight schedule, Glenn offers an exclusive One-Hour Priority Marriage License Service to help you get legally ready the same day. Apply for Priority Service here .

How long is the licence valid?

Typically 90 days.

How much does it cost?

Cost is US$120 (often includes one certified copy). Additional certified copies are $ 20 each.

Who can officiate?

A licensed Bahamas Marriage Officer. You’ll also need two witnesses (18+).

Can foreigners get legally married in the Bahamas?

Yes—provided you meet the presence requirement, present valid documents, obtain the licence, and use a licensed Marriage Officer.

Is a Bahamas marriage license and certificate valid internationally?

Yes. For use abroad (immigration, name change, etc.), order an apostille with your certified copy to simplify recognition.

Disclaimer: Requirements and fees may change. Always confirm with Glenn and the Registrar General’s Department before you travel. Last verified: October 5, 2025.