Getting Married in Jamaica

Requirements for Getting Married in Jamaica

Official guidelines for visitors wishing to get married in Jamaica.

General Information

Jamaica is an unforgettable destination to have your wedding. To ensure planning of this special day happens hassle-free, the following information should help to guide you through the process.

  • Waiting Period: Visitors can be married just 24 hours after arriving in Jamaica, providing prior application has been made for a marriage license.

Mandatory Documentation

  • Proof of citizenship – certified copy of birth certificate which includes father’s name
  • Written consent from parent(s) with proof of identity of parent(s) if under 18 years of age
  • Proof of divorce (if applicable) – original certificate of divorce
  • Certified copy of death certificate of former spouse if you are a widow or widower
  • Processing fee JM$4000 (less than US$40)

THESE DOCUMENTS MUST BE TRANSLATED INTO ENGLISH EITHER BY YOUR CONSULATE OR RECOGNISED TRANSLATION AGENCY AND THEN NOTARISED.

No blood test is required.

Apply for Your Marriage License

To apply, contact the Ministry of Justice in Jamaica:

Ministry of Justice
2 Oxford Road
NCB Towers, 10th floor/South Tower
Kingston 5
Office Hours: Monday–Thursday 9:00am–5:00pm, Friday 9:00am–4:00pm
Tel: 1 876 906 4923 -31
Fax: 1 876 906 1712
Email: customerservice @ moj.gov.jm

Marriage Officers

Using a recognized marriage officer to plan your wedding is highly recommended.

Registrar General's Department
Twickenham Park
St. Catherine
Tel: 876-749-0550 or 876-619-1260
Email: information @ rgd.gov.jm
Website: https://www.rgd.gov.jm

You may also visit: https://www.visitjamaica.com for a listing of recognized marriage officers.

Submission Requirements

You will need to send notarized COPIES of all documents. These should be sent by courier or postal service to the Marriage Officer.

  • You must bring ORIGINAL documents with you for the wedding to take place.
  • The Marriage Officer will complete the required forms and arrange all documents.
  • He/She can arrange for the ceremony in a church or location of your choice.
  • Ceremonies may be conducted daily between 6:00 and 20:00 EST.

Hotel Weddings

Most hotels in Jamaica have wedding coordinators and often offer wedding-inclusive packages.

  • The process is similar to using a Marriage Officer.
  • Some hotels require documents at least 6 weeks before the proposed date.
  • Ceremonies may be conducted between 6:00 and 20:00 EST.

After the Ceremony

You are given a copy of the Marriage Register, signed by the Marriage Officer, yourselves, and witnesses. This is NOT a legal document.
You must obtain a certified copy of your marriage certificate.

Certified Copy of Marriage Certificate

The Marriage Certificate may be applied for by the Marriage Officer and takes 7 working days to 1 month. Express service is available. Your country may require the certificate to be legalized—contact your Embassy or Consulate for assistance.