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Getting married in the Bahamas: Costs, venues, and legal steps
Getting married in the Bahamas? Learn about legal steps, costs, venues, and planning tips to make your dream destination wedding unforgettable.
If you’re planning a destination wedding in the Bahamas, don’t forget to add a pineapple to your invitation. It’s a symbol of warmth and hospitality on Eleuthera Island, where locals take their welcoming spirit seriously. That is just one of the reasons why the Bahamas makes the perfect place for a dream wedding.
Before you ask—yes, getting married in the Bahamas is legally recognized in the USA. And even better? It’s one of the easiest places to have an unforgettable wedding abroad.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from legal requirements and the marriage license process to venue options and insider tips for planning your perfect day.
Peace of mind before you fly
Get a Holafly eSIM before your wedding trip and enjoy unlimited data.
Why choose the Bahamas for your wedding?
The Bahamas is one of the most sought-after destination wedding locations, right up there with weddings in Jamaica, Barbados, and other tropical paradise islands. It is particularly appealing due to its breathtaking scenery and various wedding options.
However, the list of reasons for having your wedding party on this paradise island doesn’t stop there. Here’s why it’s a top choice for couples:
- Perfect weather: The warm climate allows for year-round beach weddings. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, it’s always the best time to visit the Bahamas, and you are sure to have a perfect wedding day.
- Ease of legal process: Unlike some destinations, the Bahamas government requires only 24 hours of residency before applying for a marriage license. That makes the planning process much easier.
- Variety of Bahamas wedding styles: Couples getting married in the Bahamas can choose between beach weddings, luxury resort ceremonies, private island weddings, or church ceremonies. There are also options for more adventurous couples who are after adrenaline pumping experiences and not just a marriage certificate.
- All-inclusive packages: Resorts usually offer full-service weddings, covering everything from officiants and two witnesses to décor and catering. This is an excellent option for those who dream of getting married in the Bahamas but want to skip the planning every detail themselves.
- Perfect honeymoon destination: Stay for Bahamian holidays after your Bahamas wedding! That’s a great way to enjoy a romantic getaway on Paradise Island or one of the pink sand beaches.
How to get married in the Bahamas: Step-by-step guide
Planning a wedding in the Bahamas is simple if you follow these steps. They will make your path to a valid marriage certificate straightforward.
Step 1: Check if you can apply for the marriage license
Here’s who can get married in the Bahamas and how to meet the basic requirements. To be eligible for a marriage license in the Bahamas, you must meet:
- Residency requirement: You must be in the Bahamas for at least 24 hours before applying.
- Age requirement: Both partners must be at least 18 years old. If younger, written parental consent is necessary.
- Marital status: If previously married, you’ll need to provide official proof of divorce or widowhood.
Important note:
If you are marrying a Bahamian, keep in mind that Bahamians over 40 who do not present a certified divorce decree or death certificate must wait up to two weeks for a search to confirm they do not have any previous marriages.
Step 2: Obtain your Bahamian marriage license
To apply for a Bahamas marriage license, visit the Registrar General’s Office and submit your documents at least one day before the wedding. Here are the documents you need to add to your packing list for the Bahamas:
What documents do you need?
- Valid passport: You can use a different type of government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license.
- Bahamas immigration card: These are issued upon arrival.
- Marriage license fee: Around $120, payable at the Registrar General’s Office.
- Proof of marital status (if applicable):
- Divorce decree if previously married.
- Death certificate of the deceased spouse if widowed.
- Certificate of Consent to Marriage By A Minor if under 18.
What is the process like?
- Complete an Application for a Marriage Licence form and submit it to the Marriage Registration Section of the Registrar General’s Office.
- Present a valid photo ID, which can be a valid passport or driver’s license.
- Participate in an interview (if required):
- Bahamian couples: If both individuals are Bahamian, an interview is not required, and the person performing the ceremony can sign the declaration.
- Bahamian marrying a non-Bahamian: The couple must be interviewed separately by the Registrar General to prevent marriages of convenience.
- Two non-Bahamians: They must be interviewed by one of the five designated Marriage Officers.
- Receive your marriage license: Once the application is approved and the $120 fee is paid, the license is issued.
Important note:
A Bahamas marriage license is valid for three months after it is issued.
Step 3: Find a licensed marriage officer and two witnesses
A government-approved marriage registrar must officiate the ceremony. This can be:
- The Registrar General, Deputy Registrar, or Assistant Registrar
- Family Island Administrators or Commissioners
- Supreme Court Magistrates
- Religious leaders (a local pastor, minister, priest, rabbis)
Important note:
Justices of the Peace are NOT wedding officiants in the Bahamas, although some individuals may hold both roles.
In addition, two witnesses must be present at your ceremony. If you’re eloping or don’t have guests traveling with you, some wedding planners or resorts can arrange for witnesses.
Step 4: Choose a wedding ceremony style
One of the best parts of getting married in the Bahamas is the variety of wedding ceremony options available. For your destination wedding, you can choose from:
- Beach weddings: A relaxed, picturesque ceremony on the sand.
- Resort weddings: Many resorts offer all-inclusive packages with planners, décor, and catering.
- Private venues: From historic sites to private islands, couples can book exclusive wedding venues for a luxurious experience.
Important note:
After the ceremony, the licensed officiant must submit a Marriage Duplicate Register (Form No. 9) to the Registrar General’s Office to complete the process.
Whether you are eloping or inviting your entire extended family to join you in Paradise Island, you need to be aware of the costs. Let’s break them down for you.
How much does a wedding in the Bahamas cost?
A simple legal ceremony starts at $500 – $1,000, while luxury weddings can exceed $10,000. The price tag for a wedding in the Bahamas varies depending on the venue, services, and guest count. Here are the expenses you can expect:
- Bahamas marriage license: $120
- Officiant fee: $150+
- Venue rental: $1,000 – $5,000+
- Wedding package: $2,500 – $10,000
Types of weddings in the Bahamas and estimated costs
No matter your budget, there’s a wedding in the Bahamas to match your vision. Let’s start with the most common types of weddings, their estimated costs, and suggested venues:
1. Simple legal ceremony (Budget: $500 – $1,500)
Ideal for couples who want to be legally married in the Bahamas without a big event. This option covers the marriage license, officiant, and two witnesses.
What’s included?
- Legal ceremony
- Government marriage certificate
- Basic venue (e.g., courthouse, government office, or a free public beach)
Suggested venues:
- Registrar General’s Office (Nassau): The most affordable option for a quick, no-frills wedding to get your marriage certificate.
- Clifton Heritage National Park: A budget-friendly outdoor area with ocean views.
- Public beaches in Eleuthera or Exuma: Free ceremony spots (you may need a permit).
2. All-inclusive beach or resort wedding (Budget: $2,500 – $10,000+)
For couples looking for a stress-free Bahamas wedding, many resorts have all-inclusive packages covering everything from the venue and officiant to catering and photography.
What’s included?
- Beachfront ceremony or resort venue rental
- Licensed marriage officer and legal paperwork
- Decor, flowers, catering, and wedding cake
- Optional extras like live music, a local wedding planner, and a honeymoon suite
Suggested venues:
- Atlantis Paradise Island: A luxury resort with wedding professionals and multiple venue options.
- Grand Hyatt Baha Mar: Offers stunning beachfront ceremonies and high-end service.
- Sandals Royal Bahamian: A top-rated adults-only resort with tailored organization of your Bahamas wedding.
3. Luxury private island wedding (Budget: $10,000 – $30,000+)
For couples who want an extravagant wedding, renting a private island provides total exclusivity. These weddings often include full-service planning, luxury accommodations, and private chefs for a grand celebration.
What’s included?
- Exclusive-use private island venue
- High-end catering, floral arrangements, and entertainment
- Private beach ceremony with a personal wedding planner
- Luxury honeymoon suite or villa
Suggested venues:
- Musha Cay (David Copperfield’s Island): A celebrity hotspot for ultra-exclusive weddings and Bahamian holidays.
- Kamalame Cay: A secluded, high-end resort offering private island ceremonies.
- Exumas Private Islands: A collection of islands available for event rentals.
Exotic wedding experiences in the Bahamas
For couples looking for a truly unique Bahamas wedding that’s unforgettable in more ways than one.
1. Underwater wedding
Exchange vows while scuba diving or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Bahamas. Some couples even choose to tie the knot near coral reefs or shipwrecks.
- Estimated cost: $3,000 – $8,000 (includes diving equipment, officiant, and videography)
- Best locations: Stuart Cove’s Dive Bahamas (Nassau), Exumas Blue Hole
2. Sandbar wedding
Imagine getting married in the Bahamas in the middle of the ocean, standing on a natural sandbar that only appears at low tide.
- Estimated cost: $2,500 – $7,000 (boat rental, setup, officiant)
- Best locations: Exuma’s famous sandbars, Rose Island
3. Junkanoo wedding
For a vibrant, festival-style wedding, incorporate a Junkanoo parade, a traditional Bahamian street festival with live music, dancers, and colorful costumes.
- Estimated cost: $5,000 – $12,000 (entertainment, decor, catering)
- Best locations: Nassau, Freeport
Final touches for your dream wedding
Simply traveling to the Bahamas is a dream come true for many. Having your wedding on one of the most scenic islands in the Caribbean helps you take a piece of this wonderful place in your heart forever. No matter the level of luxury and extravagance you are going for, the Bahamas has you covered.
You just need to be clear about your wishes and communicate them to all parties involved in your wedding organization. In other words, staying connected is key, so you don’t want to leave your internet connection in the Bahamas to chance. You’ll need it to deal with everything from last-minute venue confirmations to sharing real-time updates with guests.
There are many options for staying connected, but an eSIM for the Bahamas is the easiest way to solve all your connectivity worries. Instead of paying roaming fees on top of your other wedding costs, a Holafly eSIM for the Bahamas gives you unlimited data for a fraction of the price.
Staying for an extended honeymoon as well? Look into Holafly Connect. You get to choose between three postpaid monthly eSIM plans that allow you to stay connected and share your data.
Make your wedding planning as smooth as the Bahamian breeze, or even stream the entire thing for your friends and family. Stay connected with Holafly and focus on making memories that last a lifetime.
Count memories, not data
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Plans that may interest you
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.
