In Saint Kitts and Nevis, marriages are legally recognized and governed by civil law and local customs. The country allows for various types of marriage ceremonies, including religious, civil, and special destination weddings. Here’s a breakdown of the types of marriages that are commonly performed or recognized:
1. Civil Marriage
- Performed by a Magistrate or Registrar in a government office or approved venue.
- Legally binding and recognized internationally.
- Ideal for residents or couples seeking a simple, non-religious ceremony.
- Often required for people of different faiths or secular couples.
2. Religious Marriage
- Conducted by a licensed religious official (priest, pastor, imam, etc.).
- Takes place in a church, mosque, or other religious venue.
- Must be registered with the government to be legally binding.
- Most common religions for weddings include:
- Christianity (Anglican, Methodist, Catholic, Pentecostal)
- Islam (to a lesser extent)
3. Destination Wedding
- Saint Kitts and Nevis is a popular Caribbean destination for weddings.
- Can be civil or religious, often held at resorts, beaches, or historic sites.
- Foreign couples can marry legally with minimal residency requirements (just 1–2 days in the country).
- Many resorts offer wedding packages that include the ceremony, legal paperwork, and celebration.
4. Customary/Traditional Union
- While not legally binding on their own, common-law relationships and cultural unions are recognized socially.
- Couples living together as partners may be acknowledged by society and some institutions.
- Legal recognition of such unions (e.g., for inheritance or property) may vary and require formal legal steps.
Marriage Requirements in Saint Kitts and Nevis
To legally marry (civil or religious), you typically need:
- Valid passports or birth certificates
- Affidavit of single status or divorce decree (if applicable)
- Residency period: 1 day before applying for a marriage license
- Two witnesses over 18 years old
- Marriage license from the Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs
Same-Sex Marriage
- Not legally recognized in Saint Kitts and Nevis.
- The country’s laws define marriage as a union between a man and a woman.
- LGBTQ+ rights are slowly evolving, but same-sex marriage remains unrecognized by the state as of now.
Marriage License Info
- Apply through: Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs
- Processing Time: 1–2 days
- License Fee: Varies (~EC$200–EC$500 depending on type and urgency)
