3 min read
Getting married in The Bahamas: the basics for visiting couples
What visiting couples need to know about marrying in The Bahamas: the licence process, documents, timing, choosing an island and venue, and local suppliers.
Bahamas weddings: planning, venues, suppliers and the marriage licence
The Bahamas is one of the most popular places in the region to marry: short flights from North America, a straightforward licence process for visitors, and settings from Nassau's resorts to a private beach on Eleuthera. This page covers the essentials and connects you with Bahamian wedding suppliers through a single request.
The legal part, briefly
Marriages are licensed by the Registrar General's Department in Nassau and Freeport and by administrators on the Family Islands. Both parties apply in person after at least 24 hours in the country, with passports, proof of arrival and proof of single status; the licence is then valid for a set period. Ceremonies are performed by licensed marriage officers, including ministers and magistrates, on beaches, in gardens, at resorts or in churches. Requirements and fees are set by the government and change, so confirm them with the Registrar General or your planner. Our guide to getting married in The Bahamas covers the details.
Choosing an island and a venue
Nassau and Paradise Island have the deepest pool of suppliers, the most guest rooms and the easiest flights, which suits larger weddings. Harbour Island suits small, polished weddings with pink sand and boutique hotels. Exuma offers villa and resort weddings with boat days for guests; the Abacos lend themselves to harbour-town celebrations and sailing; Eleuthera is for a private villa, a quiet beach and a relaxed long weekend. On the smaller islands, book early: there may be one of each supplier.
Suppliers we connect you with
Planners who know the licence process and the island; photographers and videographers; florists and décor rentals; private chefs and caterers for villa weddings; hair and makeup artists; officiants; musicians, DJs, rake-and-scrape bands and Junkanoo groups for the rush-out that ends many Bahamian receptions. Send one request with the island, date and guest count and we return suppliers who are available.
What we can arrange
Wedding planner
Licence, venue, suppliers and the day itself, on the island you choose.
Beach or villa ceremony
Officiant, set-up and permits where required.
Photography and video
Photographers who know the light on each island.
Private chef or caterer
Bahamian menus for villa dinners and receptions.
Junkanoo rush-out
Drums, cowbells and costumes to close the reception.
Ready to plan it?
Send your dates, group and what you have in mind. We check availability with verified local operators and reply with real options, free of charge.
Common questions
How long do we need to be in The Bahamas before marrying?
At least 24 hours before applying for the licence, with both of you present at the Registrar General's office. Confirm current requirements with the department.
Which island is best for a Bahamas wedding?
Nassau and Paradise Island for large weddings and the widest choice of suppliers; Harbour Island, Exuma, the Abacos or Eleuthera for smaller celebrations with a stronger sense of place.
Can you arrange a Junkanoo group for our wedding?
Yes. Junkanoo groups and smaller rush-out troupes perform at weddings mainly in Nassau and on Paradise Island, and some travel to other islands.
Guides
2 min read
Junkanoo: what it is and how to experience it in The Bahamas
What Junkanoo is, where it comes from, and how to see the Boxing Day and New Year's Day parades in Nassau or experience the music at any time of year.