Destination weddings allow you to reminisce over why you fell in love, with a picture-perfect paradise as your backdrop, while also crafting new shared memories with loved ones. However, Legal challenges can be a pain when it comes to having a destination wedding. If you are looking to avoid the hassles involved with legally getting married abroad but still want a destination wedding, keep reading to find out some of the top places where you can easily have a destination wedding.
1. Anguilla
Anguilla has no residency requirements, but your license may require at least two working days to process. You will need to submit a form of photo identification and proof of citizenship from your country and have at least two witnesses at the ceremony. The cost is USD $284 (pricing subject to change) unless one partner resides in Anguilla for at least 15 days before the marriage date. The only exception to these requirements is Catholic marriages, which may need you to give around 3-6 months’ notice along with other specific documents.
2. The Bahamas
The residency requirement for the Bahamas is only 24 hours. The required documents include birth certificates, passports, death certificate of a former spouse or proof of divorce if previously married, a declaration from the U.S. Consul at the American Embassy in Nassau certifying that both participants are unmarried, a marriage license from the Commissioners office, and proof of arrival in the Bahamas. The application must be completed in person by both people.
3. Bermuda
There are no residency requirements in Bermuda, although you will have to pay a license fee of USD $267. With the payment, you will also need to fill out a "Notice of Intended Marriage" from Bermuda's Registrar General's Office, which can be found on bermudatourism.com or by calling. The “Notice of Intended Marriage” must be filed at least two weeks before the wedding is set to occur.
4. Jamaica
In Jamaica, there is a residency requirement of 24 hours. Your application has to be made at least 48 hours before your trip, which can be done quickly by calling the Ministry of National Security at (876) 906-4908. In terms of documentation, you must provide birth certificates with your father’s name on them and proof of divorce or the death certificate of your former spouse if previously married.
5. Hawaii
With no residency requirement, Hawaii is also a place where having a destination wedding can be easy. All you will need to provide is a passport or driver’s license, as well as information on the date, state, and country of where any past divorces were finalized. Licenses need to be applied for in-person with both people present.
If you are interested in booking a stress-free destination wedding, schedule a 15-minute quick "Hello" chat to start planning.
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