Legal Requirements for getting married in Grenada

Grenada offers a straightforward process for couples wishing to marry abroad, whether through a religious or civil ceremony – both of which are legally binding. Below, we’ve outlined the necessary documentation and steps to guide you through the marriage application.

Please note: Marriage requirements may vary depending on your nationality, so we recommend consulting with the Grenadian Consulate or Embassy for the most up-to-date information on the legal requirements for getting married in Grenada.

This guide is intended to serves as a starting point, and while we’ve made every effort to provide accurate information, we recommend verifying the latest details before proceeding.

Essential Facts About Marrying in Grenada

Legalities of Marriage

Marriages performed in Grenada are internationally recognised and legally binding, provided that all legal requirements and documentation are met according to Grenadian law.

Types of Marriage Ceremonies in Grenada

Religious and civil ceremonies are both legally binding in Grenada.
All wedding ceremonies are conducted in English

Medical Requirements

Blood tests are not required for marriage in Grenada

Residency Requirements

No Residency Requirement – Since June 24, 2013, you can apply for a marriage licence on the same day you arrive in Grenada.

Steps to marry in Grenada

Step 1 - Gather necessary documents

Collect all the required documents: passport, birth certificate, and any other necessary papers (e.g., divorce or death certificates, Affidavit of Single Status, or CNI).

Step 2 - Submit your marriage application

Visit the Registrar General’s Office in Grenada with your documents to apply for the marriage license. Note: If you are using a Licensed Destination Wedding Agent, they can apply on your behalf. Once issued the marriage licence is valid for 3 months.

Step 3 - Wait for approval

After submitting your application, there is a 24-hour waiting period before your wedding can take place. It’s always a good idea to allow more time for processing.

Step 4 - Get Married

Have your wedding ceremony performed by an authorised officiant and ensure two witnesses are present.

Step 5 - Obtain your marriage certificate

After the ceremony, collect your Marriage Certificate from the Registrar’s Office. You may request certified copies for future legal purposes.

Documentation required for marrying in Grenada

Essential Documents

When applying for a marriage licence in Grenada, all documents must be in English. Any document in a foreign language must be translated into English by an official translator and certified. Both the translated copy and the original document must be submitted with the application.

Typically, both parties will need to provide original or certified copies of the following documents:

Passports: Valid passports for both parties.
Birth Certificates: Original or certified copies of both parties’ birth certificates.
Divorce Certificate: Original copy of divorce decree absolute with seal or notorized copy (if applicable)
Death Certificate: Original copy of death certificate and previous marriage certificate (if widowed).
Proof of Single Status: In some cases, you may need a Certificate of No Impediment (CNI) or an Affidavit of Single Status depending on your nationality.
Parental Consent: If either party is below 18 years old, you will need written consent from both parents (or legal guardians). Persons under 16 cannot marry in Grenada.
Affidavit of Marriage: In some cases, both parties may be required to swear an affidavit confirming their intent to marry.

The Application Process for marriage in Grenada

Giving Notice

You must submit a Marriage License Application to the Registrar General’s Office in Grenada at least 24 hours before the ceremony. However, it’s recommended to allow more time for processing. (*see note on special licence, below).

Marriage Licence fee

A marriage licence fee must be paid, which varies depending on the location and other factors.

Marriage Officer

Your wedding ceremony must be officiated by an authorised marriage officer (e.g., a priest, minister, or registrar)

Witness

Two witnesses must be present at the ceremony. If you don’t have your own witnesses, the registry office can provide them.

Fees & Special Licence

Appointment Requirements

Non-nationals must schedule an appointment for a marriage licence before arriving in Grenada. If this is not done, applicants can still apply for the licence on the day of arrival. However, if the wedding is within the same week, the application will be expedited and will incur an additional fee.

24 hour Express Licence

Applications for an express marriage licence can be dropped off on any day, but applicants must call ahead to notify the office before arriving. The license will be ready for collection within 24 hours after submission. The application will incur and additional fee.

Licensed Destination Weddings Agent

If you are using a licensed destination wedding agent to handle the legalities, all your documents must be submitted through the agent before your arrival in Grenada. Additionally, all documents must be notarized by a notary in the country where you reside.

Marriage Certificate in Grenada

Obtaining your marriage certificate

After the ceremony, you will receive an official Marriage Certificate. Be sure to request certified copies if you need them for legal purposes after the wedding.

Additional Tips for getting married in Grenada

Timing

Plan ahead to ensure all your documents are prepared and processed on time. The earlier you start the application process, the smoother everything will go.

Consult a wedding planner

If you’re unsure about the legal procedures or would like assistance with your wedding arrangements in Grenada, consider hiring a destination wedding planner. They can help you navigate the documentation and logistics.

Further information

For further information and legal requirements for getting married in Grenada please contact the Office of the Prime Minister in Grenada of the Grenada Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence.

Need more help navigating the legal process

Consult a Wedding Planner in Grenada

While the legal process for getting married in Grenada is relatively straightforward, working with a local wedding planner can make things even easier. They’re familiar with the required paperwork, local procedures, and can handle the entire legal application on your behalf.

Many wedding planners in Grenada offer a one-off service to manage just the legal documentation, with no obligation to book them for the rest of your wedding. This is a convenient option if you want to save time and avoid handling paperwork yourself.

Tip: Connect with a licensed wedding planner in Grenada to streamline your legal arrangements. [Click Here]

If you prefer to apply for your marriage licence on your own, make sure your documents are correctly translated, certified, and submitted in accordance with Grenadian requirements — and give yourself plenty of time for processing