Marriage in Belize

Many couples from around the world have chosen to celebrate their most important day in our tropical paradise. According to Belizen legislation, civil marriages are celebrated by a Notary Public; catholic marriages are celebrated by catholic priests, who act as a representative of the Church and notary publics at the same time. Marriage ceremonies in Belize are internationally valid.


Following are the documents required to get married in Belize.
1. Both parties must be in Belize at least three days before applying for a marriage license.
2. Couples getting married must reside in Belize for at least three days prior to their license application being processed. Applications must be made with the Registrar General's Office in Belize City. The Voting Statistics Office's phone number is (501) 227-2053. Their fax number is (501) 227-0085.
3. Forms must be completed and signed in the presence of a Justice of the Peace (J.P.). Ask for J.P.s in your area.
4. Completed forms along with the items in the following list must be presented to General Registry or Attorney General.
• 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)
5. The normal approval time is one week
6. Two witnesses who can be local volunteers willing to help, must accompany couples who have a legal ceremony in court. Cost: US $5

Most hotels will help with your arrangements including securing a minister or officer of the court to perform the ceremony. However, if you wish to make these arrangements on your own, please contact the Registry Department before you leave home to secure a licensed person and court date to perform a legal ceremony.

Cost to get Married in Belize
Marriage license - $100 US
Legal ceremony in court - $5 US
Religious officer - Varies (donations to the churches and schools are welcomed)

Registry Department
Treasury Lane
Belize City
Telephone: 011-501-227-7377
Fax: 011-501-227-0181
Opening hours:
Monday to Friday 8 am - 12 noon and 1 pm - 5 pm

Registration of your marriage in the United States and Canada
You should arrange with your lawyer in Belize the presentation of the appropriate documents in order to register the marriage in the United States or Canada.

See Also:
Wedding Planners and Coordination - Wedding Planners Directory
Belize Consulates
Belize state Governments