Marriage in Jamaica

If you want to say “I Do” in Jamaica, no problem. Many couples have had their dream wedding right here in Jamaica. Getting married in Jamaica means you can choose to go bare-footed, you can choose a formal setting of elegance, or choose just about any setting you wish. Whichever you choose, marriage in Jamaica is really a choice you won’t regret.

Various hotels and resorts offer wedding packages where wedding planners tale care of every detail from the minister to the music. At Breezes resorts, newly weds are given a first anniversary return stay for free! InOcho Rios, weddings have been taken to another level with sky-high weddings at Rainforest Adventures atMystic Mountain. They call it the “I Do at 700 Feet” wedding ceremony.

Planning your Wedding

In addition to resort coordinators, there are several highly qualified wedding planners on the island. These planners have experience working with international brides and in planning events of various sizes. You can also employ the services of a coordinator in your area that specializes in destination weddings. However, it is strongly advised that either you or your wedding coordinator collaborate with a professional here in Jamaica.

Sandals and Beaches resorts has an exquisite wedding planning team. They have managed to captivate the extremely romantic couples and the highly imaginative. This is what they have done. In collaboration with Martha Stewart they offer numerous wedding options with six artistic themes. From “Vision in White” for those who prefer a classic white wedding, to “Beautiful Beginnings” which salutes the Jamaican tradition of romance.

Getting your Marriage Certificate / License

Visitors can be married 24 hours after arriving in Jamaica, providing prior application has been made for a marriage certificate/license. Jamaica does not require you to take a blood test before getting married. The cost of a marriage license is $4000 Jamaican dollars (approximately US$50) which is subject to change at anytime. To apply for your marriage license, contact the Ministry of Justice, Jamaica. Contact details are as follows:

• Tel: 1 876-906-4923-31
• Fax: 1-876-906-1712-3
• Email: customerservice@moj.gov.jm

What documents do you need?

No blood test is necessary for you to get married in Jamaica, however the following documents are required. Please note that if the original of these documents are not available, as substitute, a notarized copy of the original is acceptable in most situations:

• Proof of citizenship – certified copy of birth certificate, which includes father’s name.
• Parent’s written consent if under 18 years of age.
• Proof of divorce if applicable (original certificate of divorce).
• Certified copy of death certificate for widow or widower.
• Italian nationals must notify their embassy and have a certified copy of their marriage certificate forwarded to their embassy to be legalized and translated.
• French Canadians need a notarized translated copy of all documents and a photocopy of the original French documents.

Finding Wedding Officials

Only a marriage officer licensed in Jamaica can legally marry a couple. An marriage officer of your choice may conduct the ceremony, but a local marriage officer must be present to sign the marriage form and make the official marriage pronouncement. Marriage officers can also provide witnesses for the ceremony.

Get a list of Jamaica’s Licensed Marriage Officers here