The legal requirements for getting married in Anguilla are relatively simple and straightforward.
The following information is intended to be a starting point and guideline only.
Although much care and effort has been taken to ensure the information provided is correct please do not take it as legal advice. As Anguilla is a British Overseas Territory it does not have its own Embassies or Consulates abroad and is represented by those of Great Britain. I strongly advise you to consult the Judicial Department of the Government of Anguilla for first hand information.
Legality of Marriage
Marriages performed in Anguilla are internationally recognised and legally binding.
Residency Requirements
To get married in Anguilla you must be resident on the island for a minimum of 48 hours, in order to make an application for a marriage licence at the Court Registry.
Marriage Licence/Application
To apply for your marriage licence, both parties must personally attend the Court Registry, Judicial Department, Court House Building, P.O. Box 60, The Valley, Anguilla, at least two days prior to the day of your wedding and provide the required documentation and applicable fee.
Fees for Marriage Licence
The fee for a special marriage licence (resident for less than 15 days) is US$284.
The fee for a marriage licence if one party is resident for 15 days or longer is US$40.
Required Documentation
Originals of the following documentation are required to be presented when applying for a marriage licence in Anguilla. However, if you’re unable to obtain an original Decree Absolute you may provide a Certified True copy signed by a Registrar of the Clerk of the Court of divorce.
- Passport, with at least 6 months validity, or
- Full Birth Certificate together with photographic ID such as a drivers licence.
- If either party is divorced, Decree Absolute bearing a Seal of the Court of divorce.
- If either party is widowed, Death Certificate of deceased spouse.
- If either party is under 18 years of age (20 if a New Zealand citizen), evidence of parental consent is required.
Please note that all documentation must be in English. If the original documentation is in another language it will need to be translated into English using an approved translator and certified. Contact that Government of Anguilla to obtain a list of approved translators.
Marriage Certificate
To ensure that your Marriage certificate is accepted in your country of residence it is advisable to have an Apostille affixed to it. An Apostille can be obtained at The Ministry of Finance in Anguilla, the cost is EC$150.00 / US$55.80 cash or by Travellers Cheques.
Further Information
For further information on the legal requirements for getting married in Anguilla, please contact the
The Registrar, Judicial Department of the Government of Anguilla (tel: (264) 497 2377/3347 fax: (264) 497 5420).
Alternatively, as a British Overseas Territory you may contact the British Embassy or High Commission who represent Anguilla.
United Kingdom
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Tel: (020) 7008 1500
USA
Tel: (0202) 588 6500
Ireland
Tel: (01) 205 3700
Canada
Tel: (0613) 237 1530
Australia
Tel: (02) 6270 6666
South Africa
Tel: (012) 421 7500
New Zealand
Tel: (04) 924 2888
In the Caribbean it is common for the Resort or Reception Venue to provide you with a Wedding Coordinator who will assist you in dealing with the legal requirements. However, if this service is not provided I would highly recommended you employ the services of a Wedding Planner or Caribbean Travel Specialist to help deal with the paperwork and legalities.
If you use a Wedding Planner or Travel Specialist you are guaranteed that you will receive all the correct information and they will guide you through the process. If you choose make an application for a wedding licence yourself, you will need to make provisions to ensure your documentation is correctly submitted and lodged on time.
Requirements and fees are subject to change in accordance with the laws of Anguilla. Information correct as at May 2011.
