Types of Marriages in the Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands recognizes several types of marriages that reflect both modern legal standards and traditional values, influenced by British common law, Christian customs, and the diverse cultural backgrounds of its residents.
**1. Civil Marriage
- Legally recognized marriage conducted by a government-authorized official (e.g., a civil registrar or marriage officer).
- Takes place at:
- Government offices
- Private venues (hotels, beaches, homes)
- Available to both residents and tourists.
- Must be registered with the General Registry Office of the Cayman Islands.
2. Religious Marriage
- Conducted by a religious leader (e.g., pastor, priest, minister).
- Takes place in a church, chapel, or any location approved by the religious institution.
- Still requires a civil marriage license to be legally recognized.
- Common denominations:
- Anglican
- Baptist
- Catholic
- Seventh-day Adventist
- Pentecostal
- Church of God
3. Same-Sex Unions
- Same-sex marriage is not legally recognized in the Cayman Islands (as of 2025).
- However, the government passed the Civil Partnership Law (2020) after a court ruling, allowing:
- Civil partnerships between same-sex couples
- Legal rights similar to marriage (e.g., immigration, inheritance, property rights)
- Civil partnerships can be performed by civil registrars or designated officers.
4. Destination Weddings (Tourist Marriages)
- The Cayman Islands is a popular location for non-residents to get married, especially beach weddings.
- Requirements:
- Minimum stay: No residency required
- Obtain a special marriage license (US$250)
- Ceremony conducted by a licensed officiant
- Legal in most countries after registration
5. Common-Law Relationships
- The Cayman Islands does not formally recognize common-law marriage (unlike some Caribbean nations).
- Long-term cohabitation does not grant legal spousal rights unless formalized through civil partnership or legal marriage.
6. Legal Requirements for Marriage
- Both partners must be 18 years or older
- Must apply for a marriage license through the General Registry
- Must be conducted by a licensed Marriage Officer
- Must be witnessed by two people
- Must be registered within 7 days for it to be legally valid
Summary Table
| Marriage Type | Legal Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Civil Marriage | Legal | Most common; open to residents & tourists |
| Religious Marriage | Legal (with license) | Must be registered with government |
| Same-Sex Civil Partnership | Legal (not “marriage”) | Grants legal rights without full marriage recognition |
| Common-Law Union | Not legally recognized | Cohabiting couples don’t have marriage rights |
| Tourist Wedding | Legal worldwide | Requires license and registered Marriage Officer |
