Legal Requirements and Process: How to Get Married in the Bahamas Made Simple

Getting married is one of the most important milestones in anyone’s life. It is a moment that is meant to be cherished and remembered forever. When it comes to choosing a wedding destination, many couples look for places that offer breathtaking scenery, clear waters, and sunny skies. The Bahamas is an ideal destination that offers all this, and more. With its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and stunning scenery, it is the perfect place to say “I do.”

However, before you start planning your dream wedding in the Bahamas, it is important to know the legal requirements and the process of getting married. This is where Glenn Ferguson, a licensed marriage officer with over 20 years of experience, comes in. In this article, we will discuss the legal requirements and process of getting married in the Bahamas in a simple and easy-to-understand way, thanks to his expertise.

Legal Requirements to Get Married in The Bahamas

The legal requirements for getting married in the Bahamas are straightforward. The first requirement is that both parties must be at least 18 years old. If one or both parties are under the age of 18, parental consent is required.

The second requirement is that both parties must be free to marry. This means that they are not currently married or in a civil partnership. If one or both parties have been previously married, they must provide proof of divorce or the death certificate of their former spouse.

The third requirement is that both parties must be of sound mind and capable of giving their consent. This means that they understand the nature of the marriage ceremony and the commitment they are making to each other.

Finally, non-Bahamian couples must obtain a marriage license before getting married in the Bahamas. The license can be obtained from the Registrar General’s Office in Nassau, the capital city of the Bahamas. The cost of the license is $120, and it is valid for three months from the date of issue.

How to Get Married in The Bahamas

The process of getting married in the Bahamas is simple and straightforward. However, it is important to note that the process may vary depending on the island you choose as your wedding destination. Here is a simple step-by-step guide to the process of getting married in the Bahamas, according to Glenn Ferguson:

Step 1: Choose your wedding destination and venue

The Bahamas consists of over 700 islands, so the first step is to choose your wedding destination and venue. You can choose from a variety of destinations, including Nassau, Grand Bahama Island, Eleuthera, Exuma, and more. Once you have selected your destination, you can choose your wedding venue, which can be a hotel, resort, beach, or any other location that suits your needs.

Step 2: Contact a licensed marriage officer

Once you have chosen your wedding destination and venue, you should contact a licensed marriage officer to officiate your wedding ceremony. Glenn Ferguson is a licensed marriage officer with over 20 years of experience and can help you plan your perfect wedding in the Bahamas.

Step 3: Obtain a marriage license

Non-Bahamian couples must obtain a marriage license before getting married in the Bahamas. The license can be obtained from the Registrar General’s Office in Nassau or any of its satellite offices. The cost of the license is $120, and it is valid for three months from the date of issue. You will need to bring your passports and birth certificates as well as proof of divorce or death certificate if you have been previously married.

Step 4: Plan your wedding ceremony

Once you have obtained your marriage license and chosen your wedding venue, you can start planning your wedding ceremony. You can work with your licensed marriage officer, wedding planner, or the venue staff to plan your perfect wedding ceremony. You can choose from a variety of wedding styles, including traditional, modern, beach, garden, and more.

Step 5: Get married

Finally, it is time to get married! On the day of your wedding, your licensed marriage officer will perform the ceremony and you will exchange your vows and rings. After the ceremony, you will sign the marriage license, and your marriage will be legal and recognized in the Bahamas and most other countries.

Getting married in the Bahamas is a dream come true for many couples. With its stunning scenery, clear waters, and sunny skies, it is the perfect destination for a perfect wedding. However, as with any destination wedding, it is important to know the legal requirements and process of getting married in the Bahamas. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your wedding in the Bahamas is a success and a memory that will last a lifetime.