GET MARRIED IN PARADISE BUT KNOW THE FACTS FIRST

This is the first of my series about the key requirements of obtaining a marriage license in the Caribbean. The first destination island I begin with is St. Maarten. This is one of my favorite islands in the Caribbean. This island has lots of elements of romanticism and elegance!

What are the requirements to get a marriage license in St. Maarten?

++Both parties must be atleast 21 years of age and over in order to contract a marriage without consent of their parents.
**Both parties must submit birth certificates.
**If one party member is a resident of St. Maarten, he or should should provide legal proof of residency. For non-resident, a temporary tourist permit must be requested and approved by the Lieutenanct Governnor of the island. This permit will be valid for no more than three months.
++Before the wedding, all documents must be translated in Dutch by an official translator, or a Notary Public with their signature, stamps and seal.
++It is best to send in documents by mail or fax a month in advance. The waiting period before the ceremony can be performed is approximately two weeks.
++Proof of return ticket to the country of origin is also required.
++Divorced persons must provide valid divorce documents. Divorced women may marry after ten months of getting a divorce.
++Two witnesses are required.
++A blood test is not required.
++The wedding fee varies according to the day of the week. Tuesday to Friday fee is approximately $105, Saturday and Sunday is approximately $200 to $210.


For more information about getting married in St. Maarten, please contact Sonia McIntosh of Irie Dream Wedding, at info@iriedreamwedding.com or sjpmcintosh@gmail.com

19 days ago