Planning your dream destination wedding in the British Virgin Islands? 🌴💍 The BVI is one of the Caribbean’s most romantic wedding locations, offering stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and simple marriage requirements. This guide covers everything you need to know about the legal process, required documents, license fees, and ceremony options—plus how Weddings BVI Planners & Consultants can make the process stress-free and unforgettable.
Residency Requirements for a BVI Marriage License
Before you can apply for a marriage license in the British Virgin Islands, you must meet a residency requirement. There are two options available, depending on your travel schedule:
- Ordinary License: Requires at least three full days of residency in the BVI before you can apply. This option is less common for destination weddings due to the longer stay required.
- Special License: Requires just one full day of residency. This is the most popular option for international couples since it allows you to marry more quickly.
Applications are made at the Registrar General’s Office in Road Town, Tortola. For official details, visit the BVI Government Marriage Application page.
Note: After your ceremony, your official marriage certificate is usually available the next business day for collection from the Registrar’s Office.
Required Documents for a BVI Wedding
To apply for your marriage license, you will need to present the following documents:
- Valid passports for both partners
- Divorce decree (if previously married)
- Death certificate of former spouse (if widowed)
- Name change affidavit (if applicable)
Note: A birth certificate is not required for a BVI marriage license.
Important: If you cannot provide one of the required documents, you may be asked to present an affidavit as proof (for example, proof of single status). Weddings BVI can assist with this if needed.
For the most up-to-date list of required documents, you can also check the official BVI Government website.
BVI Marriage License Fees
The cost of your marriage license depends on which option you choose:
- Ordinary License: $120 USD – requires 3 days of residency
- Special License: $220 USD – requires only 1 day of residency
Most destination couples choose the Special License for flexibility and faster processing.
Civil vs. Religious Ceremonies in the British Virgin Islands
When it comes to your ceremony, you have the freedom to choose what feels right for you:
- Civil ceremony – held at the Registrar’s Office or another approved venue
- Religious ceremony – conducted by a registered minister or officiant, either in a church or at your preferred location
Do You Need Witnesses for a BVI Wedding?
Yes, two witnesses are required for every wedding in the British Virgin Islands. If you’re traveling alone or don’t have guests attending, don’t worry—Weddings BVI can provide witnesses for you.
Why Work With a Local BVI Wedding Planner
While it is possible to arrange your paperwork and license yourself, most couples prefer to rely on a trusted local wedding planner. At Weddings BVI, we make the process smooth and stress-free:
- ✔️ We prepare and review your documents in advance
- ✔️ We schedule and attend your Registrar appointment with you
- ✔️ We coordinate with officiants, venues, and vendors
- ✔️ We can provide witnesses if needed
Our team’s local expertise allows you to focus on celebrating your love while we handle the details.
FAQs About British Virgin Islands Marriage Requirements
Can foreigners marry legally in the BVI?
Yes. Marriages performed in the British Virgin Islands are legally recognized around the world.
How soon after arriving can we marry?
With a Special License, you can marry as soon as two days after arrival—one full day of residency, followed by one day for license processing.
Do we need witnesses?
Yes, two witnesses are required. Weddings BVI can provide them if needed.
What documents are required?
You will need valid passports, and if applicable, a divorce decree, death certificate of a former spouse, or a name change affidavit. A birth certificate is not required. In certain cases, affidavits may be requested.
What are the marriage license fees?
The Ordinary License costs $120 and requires three days of residency. The Special License costs $220 and requires just one day of residency.
Plan Your Dream Wedding in the British Virgin Islands
Make your wedding in the British Virgin Islands simple, legal, and unforgettable. 🌺✨ Let Weddings BVI handle the paperwork, logistics, and local details so you can enjoy every moment of your celebration.