There is no waiting period or minimum length of stay to get married on this beautiful Caribbean Island.
Arrangements must be made with a Marriage Officer (A Magistrate or a Minister of Religion authorized to be a Marriage Officer) prior to the completion of an application form for the license. Application for a marriage license must be made by both parties, in person, at:
The Ministry of Home Affairs
5th Floor
General Post Office Building
Cheapside
Bridgetown
St. Michael
Barbados
GENERAL LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
Please note:
All papers must be presented in English. If in another language, it should be translated to English and certified by a Notary Public.
No blood test is required.
You will need to submit, with your application (Photocopies will not be accepted)
Valid passports or the original or certified copies of the applicants’ birth certificates.
A certified copy of the marriage certificate and death certificate in respect of the deceased spouse, if either party was married previously and widowed.
An original Decree Absolute or a certified copy of Final Judgment not the Decree Nisi, if either party was divorced.
If the Decree Absolute is in a language other than English, it must be accompanied by a certified translation.
Legal proof stamped and signed by a solicitor - If name has been changed by Deed Poll. This also applies if a married woman has reverted back to her maiden name.
Parental consent in the form of Statutory Declaration stamped and signed by a solicitor - If aged under 18 years.
To get married in a Roman Catholic Church requires additional documentation to be sent from the Bishop of your Diocese to the Bishop of Bridgetown.
A letter from the Marriage Officer who has consented to perform the marriage ceremony.
* Remember to produce proof of any previous or current status, including divorce if applicable.
If neither person is a citizen nor resident of Barbados, the fee is BDS $200.00 and the stamp duty IS BDS $25.00.
If either person is a citizen of Barbados, the fee is BDS $45.00 and the stamp duty is BDS $10.00.
There is also a fee for the person performing the ceremony.
The wedding can take place: -
By appointment in the Registry by a magistrate (2 witnesses, over 18, must be present at the ceremony to sign the marriage certificate).
In a church or other chosen venue with the consent of the clergyman or marriage officer.
The officiant will register the marriage and the marriage certificate will be delivered or mailed within 48 hours of the date of marriage.
For further information you may contact the Ministry of Home Affairs in Barbados at Telephone No: (1 246) 228-8950.
VOWS RENEWAL
Some married couples often celebrate milestones in their union with a renewal of vows service. The only legal requirement is that you produce your original marriage certificate or a certified copy, for authentication. It is recommended that you send a photocopy of your marriage certificate at least six weeks before you travel. Most of the services that are provided for weddings can be requested for your vows renewal service.
LANGUAGE
In some countries, it may be possible to have an interpreter translate the marriage talk and vows from English to another language but you would need to confirm this with the minister or other officiant beforehand. This thoughtful gesture can help family members to feel more involved if they are not fluent in English.
Remember, you must take your vows in the official language of that country for the marriage to be legally binding.
