Weddings in Barbados

Barbados makes weddings relatively simple for nonresidents, as there are no minimum residency requirements. Most resorts, therefore, offer wedding packages and have on-site wedding coordinators to help you secure a marriage license and plan a personalized ceremony and reception. Alternatively, you may wish to have your wedding at a scenic historic site or botanical garden, on the grounds of a restored greathouse, or at sunset on a quiet beach.

To obtain a marriage license, which often can be completed in less than a half hour, both partners must apply in person to the Ministry of Home Affairs (located in the General Post Office building, Cheapside, Bridgetown, 246/228-8950, and open 8:15-4:30 weekdays) by presenting valid passports. If either party was previously married and widowed, you need to present a certified copy of the marriage certificate and a death certificate for the deceased spouse; if either party is divorced, you need a certified copy of the official divorce decree. Nonresidents of Barbados must pay a fee of $75 (Bds$150) plus a stamp fee of $12.50 (Bds$25). Finally, you must make arrangements for an authorized marriage officer (a magistrate or minister) to perform the ceremony.