Requirements to Get Married in The Bahamas: Complete 2025 Guide

Requirements to Get Married in The Bahamas: Essential Documents & Process

I've helped so many couples work through the requirements to get married in The Bahamas that I could practically recite them in my sleep. Here's what you'll need:

Documents You Must Bring

Most wedding hiccups happen because of paperwork problems. Make sure you have:

Important: Bring $100.00 cash for the Bahamas marriage license fee – and I mean cash because the government offices often don't take cards. I've sent too many couples hunting for ATMs on what should be a relaxing pre-wedding day.

Step-by-Step Process for Bahamas Marriage Requirements

Unlike some islands that make you wait, The Bahamas lets you arrive and get married the next day. But after 24 years of planning weddings, I don't recommend cutting it that close:

Standard Process (24-Hour Processing)

1. Visit the Registrar General's Department in Nassau (that pink building on Shirley & Charlotte Streets, open 9:30 am-4:00 pm Monday-Friday) or the Administrator's Office if you're on one of the outer islands
2. Submit your documents and pay the $100 fee
3. Wait 24 hours for processing (they usually process your license in 24 hours)
4. Receive your license (valid for 90 days)

Why Choose Glenn's Priority Service?

I always build in a 2-3 day buffer for standard processing. Last April, I had a couple whose flight was delayed by a day – without extra time, they would have missed their own wedding. That's exactly why I created the Priority Service.

Legal Requirements to Get Married in The Bahamas

Age Requirements and Other Legal Things

You both need to be at least 18. Younger folks (15-17) can marry with parents present, but I rarely see that work well.

For same-sex couples: The Bahamas doesn't legally recognize same-sex marriages yet. However, symbolic ceremonies for same-sex couples are possible – you would typically handle the legal marriage at home.

Types of Ceremonies

In my years as both a planner and marriage officer, I've created all kinds of ceremonies:

Civil Ceremonies

As a Licensed Bahamas Marriage Officer, I perform civil ceremonies that are recognized worldwide. The great thing is we can hold them almost anywhere:

• Beaches at sunrise
• Yacht decks at sunset
• Garden pavilions
• Even underwater for diving couples (one of my favorites!)

You need two witnesses (I can bring them) and about 20-30 minutes for the ceremony. Despite being "civil," these ceremonies can be deeply personal.

Religious Ceremonies

The Bahamas has some stunning historic churches. Different religions have different requirements:

• Catholic weddings need the most prep time (usually 6+ months)
• Protestant ceremonies are typically more flexible
• Jewish ceremonies can happen with visiting rabbis (I arrange this often)

Christ Church Cathedral in Nassau dates to 1670 and makes for amazing photos. Last winter, a couple lit its walls with hundreds of candles for their sunset ceremony.

Best Places to Get Married in The Bahamas

After planning weddings on nearly every Bahamian island, I have some clear favorites:

Nassau & Paradise Island

Perfect if you want luxury and easy flights. My top spots based on hundreds of weddings:

• The Ocean Club Four Seasons: Those Versailles Gardens create a backdrop unlike anything else in The Bahamas
• Rosewood Baha Mar: For modern luxury and flexibility
• The Cove Atlantis: Great for bigger weddings with several events

Exuma

If you've seen those incredible aerial photos of Bahamian waters in different shades of blue, that's Exuma. Worth the trip for:

• Sandbars that only appear at low tide
• Staniel Cay Yacht Club for laidback luxury
• Villas overlooking the Exuma Sound

Harbour Island

The pink sand beaches here create a naturally romantic setting. Perfect for couples wanting boutique luxury:

• Pink Sands Resort sits right on those famous beaches
• The Dunmore offers old Bahamian charm with modern comforts
• Coral Sands has the best sunset views on the island

Weather Patterns for Bahamas Weddings

After 24 years here, I can tell you exactly what to expect:

November-May: Best Weather

Temperatures 70-85°F, low humidity, and little rain. December through April is peak season – prices are higher and dates are booked faster. I secure these dates 12-18 months ahead for the best venues.

June-October: Better Prices

Yes, it's hurricane season, but direct hits aren't common. The real issues are afternoon rain and humidity. The upside: much lower prices (often 30-40% less) and more venue options.

Planning Timeline That Actually Works

12-18 Months Before

• Lock in your date and venue
• Book me for planning and performing the ceremony
• Reserve room blocks while they're available

9 Months Before

• Secure photographers and musicians before they're booked
• Design invitations
• Start planning your welcome events

6 Months Before

• Send invitations (allow extra time for international mail)
• Taste and select menu options
• Start confirming travel plans

3 Months Before

• Finalize ceremony wording and vows
• Confirm all vendor contracts
• Arrange welcome bag delivery to rooms

1 Month Before

• Make sure all documents are ready for your license
• Create a timeline for your wedding party
• Confirm final guest count and meal needs

What Bahamas Weddings Really Cost

Additional Fees:

• Bahamas Marriage license fee: $100.00
• Marriage officer fee: Varies by location

Common Mistakes When Meeting Bahamas Marriage Requirements

After 24 years of helping couples with the requirements to get married in The Bahamas, here are the most common mistakes I see:

1. Not bringing cash for the license fee - Government offices often don't accept cards
2. Photocopied birth certificates - Must have raised seals
3. Expired passports - Need 6+ months validity
4. Not planning for weather delays - Always build in extra time
5. Forgetting divorce papers - Original decree with court seal required

Frequently Asked Questions About Requirements to Get Married in The Bahamas