Bahamas Marriage License
1-Hour Priority Service by Glenn Ferguson
1-Hour Priority Service by Glenn Ferguson
• 24+ Years • Nassau & Out-Islands • Cruise Specialists
Questions? WhatsApp +1 (242) 395-8495 • Book a License + Wedding
Get it done right—and fast. This guide explains how to secure your Bahamas marriage license plus how Glenn’s 1-Hour Priority Service can accelerate in-office handling for eligible couples while complying with all laws (including the 24-hour presence rule).
Minimum stay before applying
License fee (typical)
Escorted, in-office handling
License validity
⚡ Glenn’s 1-Hour Priority Marriage License Service
Short on time? Glenn provides escorted, in-office priority handling designed to compress the admin process to about an hour where feasible—without bypassing any legal requirements.
- What’s included: pre-check of documents, appointment/queue coordination, escorted filing, and proactive follow-through.
- Who it helps: cruise passengers, tight itineraries, weekend weddings, Out-Island couples connecting via Nassau.
- What still applies: the 24-hour presence requirement and all official procedures. Priority ≠ legal shortcut.
Availability is limited and may vary by date, office workload, and island logistics.
Quick Summary
| Step | What To Do | Who | Timing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive in The Bahamas | Both parties | ≥ 24 hours before applying | Proof: immigration card / passport stamp |
| 2 | Gather documents | All couples | Before filing | Passports, birth certs, prior-marriage docs, affidavit if single |
| 3 | Apply in person | Both parties | Next business day after arrival | Registrar (Nassau) or local Administrator/Commissioner |
| 4 | Priority handling (optional) | Eligible couples | ~1 hour | Escorted in-office process (no legal shortcuts) |
| 5 | Pick up license | Applicant(s) | Standard next business day | Priority aims to condense handling where possible |
| 6 | Hold ceremony | All couples | Within 90 days | Licensed Marriage Officer + two witnesses |
| 7 | Request certificates | All couples | After registration | Order extra certified copies; ask about apostille |
Weekend or holiday ceremony? File earlier in the week or use Glenn’s coordination to keep everything on track.
Requirements & 24-Hour Rule (Cruise Included)
- 24-hour minimum presence: both parties must be physically in The Bahamas for ≥ 24 hours before applying.
- Proof of arrival: immigration arrival card and/or passport entry stamp.
- Cruise passengers: bring a Purser’s letter confirming the ship’s presence in Bahamian waters covering the 24-hour window.
- Office hours: Monday–Friday (closed public holidays). Coordinate dates carefully for weekend weddings.
- Validity: license validity is typically 90 days from issuance.
Documents Checklist
For Both Parties
- Valid passports (or national ID + birth certificate)
- Proof of arrival (immigration card / passport stamp)
- Photo ID (if separate from passport)
Prior Marriages
- If divorced: original final divorce decree or certified copy
- If widowed: death certificate of former spouse
- If never married: sworn affidavit of single status (notary/JP)
Special Notes
- Under 18: written parental/guardian consent on the official form
- Non-English documents: certified translations may be required
- Bring originals: certified copies accepted where specified
Tip: scan/photograph all documents and store copies in your phone/cloud before travel.
Costs & Optional Fees
- Marriage license: ~US$120 (often includes one certified copy)
- Extra certified copies: ~US$20 each
- Optional: affidavit notarization, translations/legalizations/apostille, courier/shipping
- Services: officiant fee, weekend/after-hours surcharges, 1-Hour Priority Service (limited availability)
Where to Apply (Nassau & Out-Islands)
Nassau / New Providence
- Registrar General’s Department — both parties apply in person.
- Timing: apply the business day after arrival; standard pickup is typically the following business day.
Out-Islands / Family Islands
- Apply at the Administrator/Commissioner’s Office (e.g., Eleuthera, Exuma, Abaco, Bimini, Harbour Island).
- Note: hours and processing speed vary by island—plan an extra buffer day or coordinate with Glenn.
We escort and coordinate so your filing is smooth, compliant, and on time.
After the Ceremony: Registration & Certificates
- Your licensed Marriage Officer files the signed documents for registration.
- Order certified copies of your marriage certificate (get extras for name change, immigration, etc.).
- Need recognition abroad? Ask about apostille/legalization and certified translations.
FAQs
Can we apply the same day we arrive?
No. Both parties must be physically present in The Bahamas for at least 24 hours before applying.
Does 1-Hour Priority bypass legal rules?
No. Priority is an escorted process to compress admin time; the 24-hour stay and all legal steps still apply.
Can cruise passengers get a license?
Yes—bring a Purser’s letter confirming the ship’s presence in Bahamian waters covering the 24-hour requirement.
How long is the license valid?
Typically 90 days from issuance.
Do we need blood tests?
No.
Can our own pastor officiate?
Only a licensed Bahamas Marriage Officer can legally officiate. Your pastor can participate alongside the legal officer.
Download: Bahamas Marriage License Checklist (PDF)
Documents, timing, cruise notes, and after-ceremony steps—on one printable page.
Make It Effortless — Book Glenn’s Team
Priority filing, licensed officiant, witnesses, beachfront ceremony setup, photography, and certified certificates—done for you.
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