Part of the appeal of a wedding far from home is that there’s far less planning required. However, in order to throw your beachside bash, there are still some important details that need to be taken care of. Every country has certain requirements that must be met in order for your marriage to be considered legal. Here are five of our favourite tropical destinations, as well as everything you need to consider before picking your spot.
1. Barbados
Obtaining a marriage license: Apply at the Ministry of Home Affairs in Bridgetown. Your bishop must send all documents required for a Roman Catholic ceremony to the bishop of Bridgetown prior to the ceremony.
Identification needed: Valid passports or birth certificates, plus your return tickets home.
License waiting period: None
License fee: $120
Residency needed: None
Witnesses needed: Two
Try: If you’re looking for an ultra-private, breathtaking ceremony location, opt for the Cliffside Wedding Package at the Little Arches Hotel (littlearches.com).
2. Cayman Islands
Obtaining a marriage license: You can marry on the day of your arrival if you have a letter from the authorized marriage officer who is to officiate, as well as a license application, which can be obtained from the Deputy Chief Secretary's Office.
Identification needed: Valid passports or birth certificates and photo ID.
License waiting period: Same day
License fee: $200
Residency needed: None
Witnesses needed: Two
Try: Say your “I dos” oceanside at the Grand Caymanian Resort (grandcaymanian.ky). You won’t find a better backdrop for your W-day—white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters set the scene.
3. Cuba
Obtaining a marriage license: You require a tourist card (available from a travel agent, airline or the Cuban consulate).
Identification needed: Birth certificates with parents' last names, passports, divorce decree, if applicable, and affidavit stating both parties’ full names, religions, occupations, levels of education and marital status.
License waiting period: Three days residency required
License fee: $150
Residency needed: Yes
Witnesses needed: Two
Try: Let the experts take care of everything at Sandals Royal Hicacos Resort & Spa (sandalshicacos.com) and relax on some of the Caribbean's finest white sandy beaches.
4. Dominican Republic
Obtaining a marriage license: You must send a written request to the Consulate asking permission to marry. All documents must be translated into Spanish by the Dominican Consulate or Embassy.
Identification needed: Valid passports and birth certificates for you and the mister and for any foreign witnesses.
License waiting period: Varies
License fee: $445
Residency needed: None
Witnesses needed: Two over the age of 18
Try: The Westin Roco Ki Beach & Golf (rocoki.com). This is a great venue if you plan on having a big bash. Their 7,000 sq. ft ballroom accommodates up to 500 guests!
5. Turks & Caicos
Obtaining a marriage license: You require a letter stating: occupation, marital status, present address and father's last name. Apply with the registrar in Grand Turk.
Identification needed: Valid passports and original birth certificates along with photo ID.
License waiting period: Two to three days
License fee: $50
Residency needed: Must be on the island 24 hours, two to three days to process paperwork for marriage.
Witnesses needed: None
Try: The Regent Palms (regenthotels.com/thepalms). With its beautiful beaches, exquisite architecture and manicured gardens, it will create the perfect backdrop for a romantic and elegant wedding you will remember forever.
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