Whether you’re a Jamaican couple ready to tie the knot or a foreigner planning a destination wedding in paradise, one essential document you’ll need is a marriage license. This license is issued by the Ministry of Justice and is required before a legal wedding ceremony can take place.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to apply, the cost, required documents, and other important info for 2025.
✅ Who Needs a Marriage License in Jamaica?
Everyone getting legally married in Jamaica must apply for a marriage license — this includes:
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Jamaican citizens
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Residents
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Foreign nationals
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Destination wedding couples
You do not need to be a Jamaican citizen to apply.
🗂️ Documents Required
For Jamaican Citizens:
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TRN (Tax Registration Number)
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Valid government-issued photo ID (Passport or Driver’s License)
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Original birth certificate
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Divorce decree or death certificate (if previously married)
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Statutory declaration (signed by a JP if needed)
For Foreign Nationals:
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Valid passport (with visa stamp if applicable)
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Birth certificate
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Divorce decree or death certificate (if previously married)
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Notarized parental consent if under 18
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Certified translations (if any documents are in a foreign language)
Note: All foreign documents must be translated and notarized, and may also require authentication.
💵 What’s the Cost of a Marriage License in Jamaica?
As of 2025, the marriage license fee is J$4,000. This must be paid at a tax office, and the receipt included with your application.
You’ll receive a Revenue Receipt (Form 23), which is required by the Ministry of Justice.
📍 Where to Apply
You can apply in person at:
Ministry of Justice
61 Constant Spring Road, Kingston 10
Phone: (876) 906-4923–31
Email: customerservice@moj.gov.jm
Some Justices of the Peace (JPs), wedding planners, or ministers may also assist with license processing.
📅 How Long Does It Take?
Processing typically takes 1–2 business days after submission of all valid documents. It’s one of the fastest processes for government paperwork in Jamaica.
💡 Tip: Apply at least 2 weeks before your planned wedding date to avoid any delays.
✈️ Getting Married in Jamaica as a Foreigner
If you’re a tourist or planning a destination wedding, Jamaica makes it easy. You don’t need to be in the country for long — you can arrive 24 hours before the ceremony if all documents were submitted in advance.
Consider hiring a licensed wedding planner in Jamaica to help handle the paperwork and speed up the process.
🔏 Is the Marriage License the Same as a Marriage Certificate?
No. The marriage license gives legal permission to get married.
After the wedding, your officiant submits your signed marriage register, and then you must apply for your marriage certificate from the Registrar General’s Department (RGD).
🧾 Steps to Apply for a Marriage License in Jamaica
Here’s a quick recap:
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Gather your documents (ID, birth certificate, divorce decree, etc.)
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Visit a tax office and pay the $4,000 license fee
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Get your receipt and attach it to your application
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Submit documents to the Ministry of Justice
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Wait 1–2 business days for processing
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Pick up your marriage license
📌 Additional Tips
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Double-check all spellings and document details — errors can delay your application
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Make copies of all documents before submitting
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If you’re not in Jamaica, authorize a local representative or wedding planner to assist
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Some resort packages include help with marriage license processing — ask ahead
✅ Final Thoughts
Getting a marriage license in Jamaica is one of the simpler processes — but it still requires preparation and the right documents. Whether you’re a local couple or planning your dream wedding on the island, starting the process early will ensure everything runs smoothly.
If you need help applying for your marriage certificate after the wedding, check out our full guide.
