Tying the Knot in Jamaica: What You Need to Know

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Because of it’s sheer, simplistic beauty, the Caribbean has earned it renown as the ultimate romantic escape and wedding destination for couples. With white-sand beaches, endless sunshine, and azure skies, lovers find the islands hard to resist.

Planning to tie the knot in the Caribbean? Although the wedding legalities in some parts of the region are fairly simple, it is still essential to know the local laws as each island has its own set of marriage license rules and wedding requirements.

Jamaica as a destination

The third largest of the Caribbean islands, Jamaica offers wonderful scenery - from colorful marine life and white beaches to cascading waterfalls - making it one of the most popular islands for weddings and honeymoons. It has four main tourist regions - Negril, Montego Bay, Port Antonio and Ocho Rios - and is the largest English-speaking island of the region.

Home to Bob Marley, the king of the well-loved reggae music, Jamaica also doesn’t come last with regards to rhythmic beats, nightlife, and delightful local cuisine. Its basic unit of currency is the Jamaican dollar and credit cards are widely accepted throughout the country.

Marriage License requirements

Legal requirements

Men and women who are 18 years old and above can be legally married. If one party is below 18, parental consent is required. Two witnesses are needed.

Residency

While other islands require waiting periods or at least a week of residency, Jamaica only requires 24-hour-residency before you can get married. This must include one working day.

Documents

Aside from your passport, you should have proof of citizenship by providing a certified copy of your birth certificate which includes the father’s name. If divorced, bring proof of divorce and a certified copy of a death certificate of spouse if widowed.

Italian nationals need to forward their marriage certificate to their embassy and have it legalized and translated. Meanwhile, French Canadians must have a notarized translated copy of all documents and a photocopy of original French documents.

Marriage license

Application for your marriage license must be made prior arrival as this may take four weeks to process. With help from your wedding planner, you can contact the Ministry of Justice, Jamaica at (876) 906-4923-31 to apply.

Wedding officials

Only a licensed Jamaican marriage officer can legally marry a couple. While a couple may choose who will conduct the ceremony, a local marriage officer must be present to sign the marriage form. They can also serve as witnesses.

Fees

A marriage certificate costs J$4000, which is approximately US$50-US$80. Non-denominational marriage officers, those who can officiate at a place chosen by the couple, charge anywhere from US$50 - US$250.

Wedding Packages in Jamaica

If you don’t want to make wedding arrangements independently, the wise decision to make is to book a Jamaican resort that offers beautiful choices for your wedding. With all-inclusive wedding packages, you can make preparations with less hassle.

While some resorts offer free packages (if conditions apply), Other resorts have a fixed price. Most packages include government processing and licensing. Of course, you must check with the resort beforehand. Also check if there are promos and special deals you can avail of before booking.