How to Marry in St Barts

St Barts follows French law so does require a month residency period before you can legally marry there. However, it's simple to have your wedding ceremony here and do the legal bit at home - that's what a lot of couples do.

Religious ceremonies are also permitted, but are not legally binding, just as in France where only a civil ceremony is legal.
 
Below are the legalities for marrying in St Barts, to help you plan your ideal wedding abroad.

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St Barts Marriage Law Requirements

What are the legal requirements to get married in St Barts?
Legal age for marriage is 18 years for both men and women.
Bride and Groom may not be closely related by blood.
Two witnesses are required.

 

How long do I have to be resident in St Barts before I can get married?
As St Barts is a French territory French law applies, so one of the couple needs to be resident for at least a month before the ceremony in order to have a legal wedding there.
Religious ceremonies have no legal standing in St Barts so you may marry in a church, or have a non religious blessing on the island and then do the legal part at home if you do not wish to be resident for a month beforehand.

 

Getting a marriage licence
You must take the papers mentioned below to the civil registry office in St Barts in person.
An official translator is required at the ceremony.

 

What legal papers do I need to take with me?
A letter signed and dated by the couple requesting a marriage application.
Passports
Full Birth Certificates issued no more than 6 months before the ceremony
Certificates of Single Status
A list of the full names, dates and places of birth, addresses and professions of the couple's parents and witnesses
Residency card
Medical certificates which include a blood test, issued within 3 months of the ceremony
Certificate of Law, which is a statement of the validity of the marriage in your home country
If you have been divorced then the final divorce papers must be shown.
If you are widowed then the death certificate of your previous spouse must be shown.
All documents must be translated into French by an official translator and stamped with an apostille.