Getting married in Belize

Legal requirements for marriage

• Both the parties must be in Belize 3 days prior to applying for a marriage license.
• Forms can be obtained from:General Registry, Supreme Court Building, Belize City and Attorney General Office, Belmopan
• The forms must be completed and signed in the presence of a Justice of the Peace.
• The completed form must be presented with the following documents: 
•  Proof of Citizenship in the form of an ID card or Passport 
•  Photocopies of your passport showing your picture and 
•  date of entry into Belize 
•  Proof of Marital status, if widowed or divorced 
•  Marriage license fee (US $100)
• The normal approval time is one week
• Two witnesses who can be local volunteers willing to help, must accompany couples who have a legal ceremony in court.

Other Tests: None.

Under 18: Parental consent is required.

Legal costs

Marriage license - $100 US

Legal ceremony in court - $5 US

Registry Department

General Registry

Belize City

Tel: + 501 (0) 2-77377 or

Solicitor General's office

Belmopan

Tel: + 501 (0) 8-22154

Opening hours

Monday to Friday

8 am - 12 nn | 1 pm - 5 pm

Some helpful tips

• You can request the Registry Department to fax the marriage license     application before your arrival.
• You can get quotations and packages for the marriage party, for the     ceremony,honeymoon and for any other special requirements from the     providers.
• Since fewer choices are available for bridal dresses, it is advisable to bring your wedding attire. Otherwise you can choose from colorful tropical attire in the local gift shops.
• If you choose to get married at the archaeological reserves, you can fax a  letter requesting permission one week before the ceremony.

The Letters must be faxed to:

The commissioner of Archaeology

Mr. George Thompson, at 822-3345

Please include the date and time of ceremony; names of bride, groom; priest or Justice of the Peace; and site of ceremony.