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Getting married in Barbados: Legal info, venues, and pro tips
Getting married in Barbados is easier than you think. Discover the legal steps, best wedding packages, and magical island venues.
You might not expect a broom to be part of your beach wedding in paradise, but some couples still honor the joyful tradition of jumping the broom after getting married in Barbados. This is a symbolic leap into married life, rooted in West African heritage and practiced in the Caribbean.
And while you’re not required to stick to old customs, don’t be surprised if your wedding in Barbados includes a steel pan band, a generous pour of rum punch, or even a fruitcake soaked in island spirits (yes, that’s a thing — though it’s more common in a Bahamas wedding).
If you’re dreaming of a laid-back, beautiful, and legally recognized beach wedding, it might be easier than you think. This guide covers everything you need to get married in Barbados — from legal steps to local customs, venues, and tips to make your special day unforgettable.
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Can foreigners get married in Barbados?
Yes, foreigners can get legally married in Barbados without any residency requirement. This is considered to be extremely convenient. For reference, getting married in Jamaica requires you to be there for at least 24 hours, and that’s unusually fast!
Whether you’re visiting for a week or staying longer, you can plan a legal wedding on the island with minimal paperwork and no waiting period once your documents are approved.
A Barbados destination wedding isn’t just romantic — it’s practical. All marriages performed according to local law are legally recognized in the US, Canada, the UK, and most other countries. Once you’re married in Barbados, your official marriage certificate will be proof of your union anywhere in the world.
So if you’re wondering can a foreigner get married in Barbados? — the answer is yes, easily, and with plenty of sunshine.
Legal requirements and documents
Before you can have your legal wedding in Barbados, you’ll need to gather the proper documents and apply for your marriage licence. Fortunately, the process is straightforward for visitors.
What documents do you need to get married in Barbados?
To apply for a marriage licence, both parties must present:
- Valid passports
- Birth certificates
- If previously married: the original decree absolute or final judgment
- If you have a deceased spouse: a death certificate and a copy of the marriage certificate
- Certified copies of documents, and in some cases, a notary public may be required
There’s no required waiting period—you can usually get married the same day your licence is issued, provided your documents are in order.
Where to apply for a marriage licence
You can apply for your marriage licence at the Ministry of Home Affairs in Bridgetown. According to the marriage laws and regulations in Barbados, both parties must be present to submit the required documents and complete the application process.
Ceremonies may be performed by a registered marriage officer, a civil magistrate, or a religious official. As long as the location is approved, civil marriage ceremonies can be held in a government office, a hotel, or even on the beach.
Cost and processing time
Expect to pay approximately $200 – $300 BBD (around $100 – $150 USD) for your marriage licence and marriage certificate. Express service or special location permits may incur additional fees.
The certificate itself has no expiry date, and the licence is usually processed within 24 hours. Just make sure your return tickets and minimum length of stay give you enough time for both the paperwork and the ceremony.
Types of wedding ceremonies in Barbados
Whether you’re planning a quiet civil ceremony, a traditional church wedding, or a symbolic beach celebration, Barbados offers flexible options to suit your style and beliefs.
Civil weddings
A civil marriage ceremony is the most straightforward option for couples looking for a legally binding wedding without religious elements. These ceremonies are typically performed by a licensed marriage officer or a magistrate, and can take place in a court, a hotel, or even on the beach—so long as the location is approved.
Many resorts also accommodate civil weddings, offering on-site coordination to make your ceremony as seamless as possible.
Religious weddings
If you’re planning a religious ceremony, Barbados allows various denominations to officiate legally recognized marriages. However, some traditions—like a Roman Catholic ceremony—require additional steps, such as obtaining permission from your home parish and completing pre-marriage counseling.
It’s important to coordinate directly with your chosen place of worship and check for any extra documentation needed.
Symbolic ceremonies
Already legally married elsewhere or just looking to renew your vows? A symbolic ceremony offers all the emotion and beauty of a wedding without the legal paperwork. These are popular with couples who want a beach ceremony or a destination celebration without going through the licensing process.
Symbolic weddings can be held virtually anywhere on the island—resorts, gardens, villas, or secluded stretches of sand.
Wedding options in Barbados for every budget
Barbados weddings come in all shapes and sizes—from quick courthouse vows to all-out beachside celebrations. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a tropical reception with family and friends, there are plenty of Barbados wedding packages and venues to fit your budget and style.
Simple legal ceremony (Budget: $500 – $1,500)
This is the best choice for couples who want to be legally married in Barbados without the extras. This option includes the essentials: your marriage licence, a registered marriage officer, and a basic venue for your ceremony.
What’s included?
- Wedding ceremony
- Marriage certificate
- Basic venue (e.g., courthouse, government office, or public beach)
Suggested venues:
- Ministry of Home Affairs (Bridgetown): The most affordable option for getting your licence and getting married.
- Maxwell Beach: While you may need a permit to celebrate on this beach just a short drive away from Bridgetown, it is still a popular choice for a lovely budget-friendly beach wedding in Barbados.
- Local churches: Most of the churches will gladly perform religious ceremonies at little to no cost.
Mid-range destination wedding (Budget: $2,000 – $8,000)
Perfect for a modest but memorable destination wedding in Barbados. You can expect this type of wedding option to include a venue, décor, photography, and light catering.
What’s included?
- Marriage licence, marriage officer, and ceremony coordination
- Professional Barbados wedding planner
- Simple floral arrangements and décor
- Small reception or cocktail party
Suggested venues:
- The Crane Resort: You can enjoy both poolside cocktails or a beach setting at the same time, included in a flexible mid-range wedding package.
- Savannah Beach Club Hotel: An elegant beachside venue with swimming pools and 4-level waterfall that’s a perfect backdrop for memorable photos of Barbados weddings.
- Sea Breeze Beach House: Located right on the beach. Couples usually praise the food and extraordinary service from amazingly friendly staff.
Luxury Caribbean wedding (Budget: $10,000 – $30,000+)
Designed for couples dreaming of a grand Barbados destination wedding with high-end details, private venues, help with the marriage licence, and full-service coordination.
What’s included?
- Full wedding coordination and premium wedding planner services
- Custom décor, music, catering, and entertainment
- Private beachfront venue and guest accommodations
- On-site spa, photography, and honeymoon suite
Suggested venues:
- Sandy Lane: One of the most iconic Barbados wedding venues, perfect for luxury lovers. They offer several wedding venues, and for the ultimate experience, consider The Villa.
- The House: This Marriott-owned luxury venue is adult-only. Your stay begins with a complimentary jet lag massage, and only gets better from there.
- Cobblers Cove: Exclusive wedding venue at a 1940s mansion with ceremonies featured in Vogue and Brides.
Symbolic ceremony or vow renewal (Budget: $300 – $5,000)
Great for couples who are already legally married or celebrating an anniversary. A symbolic ceremony gives you all the magic without the legal process, marriage licence, or a registered marriage officer.
What’s included?
- Non-binding symbolic ceremony or vow renewal
- Officiant or celebrant (religious or non-denominational)
- Optional extras: arch, music, floral décor, champagne toast
Suggested venues:
- Bottom Bay: A broad beach framed by gentle waves and swaying palms, just beyond Crane Beach and the historic Sam Lord’s Castle.
- Hunte’s Gardens: A lush and intimate garden setting in the central part of the island, packed with flowers, and perfect for your special day.
- Hotel or villa terraces: Many private properties across the island offer dreamy spots for Barbados weddings and renewals with minimal setup required. You can browse the options online if you have a reliable internet connection in Barbados.
After the wedding: What comes next?
You’ll receive a government-issued marriage certificate once you’re officially married in Barbados. Be sure to request a certified copy — you’ll need it for any legal name changes, immigration processes, or for registering the marriage back home.
If you’re a US citizen, your marriage is legally recognized in the US as long as it was performed according to Barbadian law.
Planning to stay in Barbados? You may be eligible for a Barbados digital nomad visa, work permit, permanent residence, or even Barbadian citizenship. To explore your options, get in touch with the Immigration Department or the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Planning a prolonged Caribbean honeymoon? A Holafly Connect monthly postpaid data plan is the fastest way to get shareable internet in minutes—no local SIM required.
Final tips before you go
Before jetting off to your Barbados destination wedding, take a moment to double-check the details. A little preparation goes a long way toward a stress-free ceremony.
- Hire a local wedding planner: They know the best venues, vendors, and can help you with permits and paperwork.
- Make a list of all the necessary documents, such as valid passports. Include certified copies and translations if they aren’t in English.
- Get a Holafly eSIM for Barbados to stay connected at all times. You’ll need it for navigation, and last-minute coordination, and even streaming your wedding — no SIM swap or roaming charges.
Whether you’re planning a simple legal ceremony or a luxurious beachfront celebration, getting married in Barbados is as easy. With the right documents, a bit of planning, and a touch of island charm, your special day will be everything you imagined—and more. Stay connected to share your Caribbean love adventure with those who cheer for you from back home.
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With a background in English literature and a focus on storytelling, I’ve turned my interests in travel and technology into a career helping others stay connected abroad. Originally from Serbia, I work remotely with my husband, experiencing local cultures firsthand and bringing that perspective to my writing for Holafly. Fun fact: before focusing on content creation, I was a professional volleyball player.
