Jamaica offers beach, garden, and resort wedding options with on-site coordinators and honeymoon convenience. Prepare passports, birth certificates, divorce or death records if applicable, and obtain a marriage licence. Confirm current residency rules and religious requirements with Jamaican authorities or your resort.

Why choose Jamaica for your wedding?

Jamaica remains a popular choice for destination weddings thanks to its beaches, tropical gardens, and wide range of resorts and villas. Couples can choose a simple beachfront ceremony, a garden or cliffside exchange, or a full resort package that includes flowers, cake, photography and a coordinator.

Venues and planning

Many resorts across Montego Bay, Negril, Ocho Rios, and the South Coast offer on-site wedding coordinators and turnkey packages. Boutique villas and private estates also host intimate ceremonies. Ask resorts whether they include legal paperwork, an officiant, and local vendors in their package, and confirm cancellation and weather policies.

You can plan everything yourself or let a local coordinator handle permits, vendors, and day-of logistics. Having your honeymoon at the same property is common and convenient.

Legal requirements (what to prepare)

Legal rules for marrying in Jamaica are straightforward, but you must meet documentation and residency rules. Commonly required items include:

  • Valid passports or national photo ID for both parties
  • Birth certificates (some offices may request proof of parentage)
  • Proof of single status: certified divorce decree if divorced, or death certificate if widowed
  • Parental consent if either party is under the legal age to marry
  • Occupations of both parties (sometimes requested on forms)
You will also need to obtain a marriage licence before the ceremony. Many couples must register with local authorities and allow a short residency period in Jamaica prior to the wedding date. Blood tests are not required.

Note: Specific documentation, residency periods, and office locations can change. Check with the Jamaican Registrar General's Department, the nearest Jamaican consulate/high commission, or your resort wedding coordinator for the latest requirements and fees.

Religious ceremonies

Religious rules vary by denomination. For example, some Catholic dioceses require weddings to take place inside a church or according to particular pastoral guidelines. Consult your local parish and the relevant Jamaican diocese well in advance if you plan a religious ceremony in Jamaica. 1

Practical tips

  • Apply for any required licence early; processing times can vary.
  • Use vendors with current reviews and written contracts.
  • Plan for weather: many venues have a rain plan or indoor option.
  • Have digital and printed copies of all documents, and bring originals to Jamaica.
  • Confirm travel requirements and health advisories before travel.

Final note

A Jamaican wedding can be simple, spontaneous, or highly curated. With basic paperwork in order and a clear plan, you can focus on the ceremony and the start of your married life in a memorable tropical setting.

  1. Confirm current residency requirement (minimum hours/days) for marriage in Jamaica with the Registrar General's Department or official government sources.
  2. Verify whether the Jamaican Ministry of Justice or another body issues a 'Minister's licence' and the exact process for officiants.
  3. Check current diocesan policy of the Roman Catholic Church in Jamaica regarding weddings outside church buildings.
  4. Confirm any recent changes to required documentation or fees with the nearest Jamaican consulate or high commission.

FAQs about Weddings In Jamaica

Do I need to live in Jamaica before my wedding?
You may need to satisfy a short residency requirement before the ceremony. Residency length and rules can change, so confirm current requirements with the Jamaican Registrar General's Department, a Jamaican consulate, or your resort wedding coordinator.
Are blood tests required to marry in Jamaica?
No. Blood tests are not required for marriage in Jamaica.
Can a Catholic priest marry us on the beach in Jamaica?
Religious rules differ by denomination and diocese. Some Catholic authorities may require weddings to occur in a church or follow specific pastoral guidelines. Check with your parish and the local Jamaican diocese before planning a beach ceremony.
What documents should we bring to Jamaica for the wedding?
Bring valid passports or photo IDs, birth certificates, certified divorce decrees or death certificates if applicable, and any parental consent if under the legal age. Also bring digital and paper copies and confirm exact requirements ahead of travel.
Can a resort handle all wedding paperwork?
Many resorts offer wedding coordinators who can assist with paperwork and local arrangements, but you should verify exactly which legal steps they handle and confirm timelines and fees.