Planning a destination wedding in Belize? Getting legally married here requires some paperwork and patience, but with the right information—or professional assistance—you can navigate the process smoothly.
If you hire a marriage officer through your resort concierge or wedding coordinator, you don’t have to visit the mainland; they will handle all the paperwork for you. Alternatively, you can legally marry in the U.S. and have a symbolic ceremony in Belize, hiring an officiant for anywhere between $200 USD and $600 USD, depending on travel distance.
Residency Requirement & Expedited Options
By law, couples must be in Belize for at least three full days (72 hours) before applying for a marriage license. If you’re short on time, an expedited option is available for an additional fee. Approval times for the expedited process vary, but it’s a good solution if you’re on a tight schedule.
Application Process
Once the residency requirement is met, your application must be submitted to either:
The Registrar General’s Office in Belize City
The Attorney General’s Ministry in Belmopan
Processing usually takes one day, but expect some back and forth. The process can require up to three separate trips to the government office, which is why many couples opt to hire a marriage officer to handle it.
Required Documents
To apply for a marriage license, you’ll need:
Valid passports with Belize entry stamps
Original birth certificates or passports for proof of citizenship
Divorce decree (if applicable) or death certificate for widowed applicants
Fees & Costs
Marriage License Fee:
Non-Belizean applicants: $200 BZD
Belizean applicants: $50 BZD
Marriage Officer Fees:
Hiring a registered marriage officer through your resort or wedding coordinator costs between $600 – $1,200 USD, depending on location and travel expenses. Their fee covers the Marriage License Fee, multiple government office visits, and mailing of the Marriage Certificate.
Witnesses & Ceremony
You’ll need two witnesses (one male, one female) for the ceremony. If you’re eloping, your photographer and coordinator are usually happy to step in as witnesses.
Your marriage can be officiated by:
A Senior Justice of the Peace
A Registered Minister
A Boat Captain (if marrying at sea)
Marriage Certification & Registration
After your ceremony, your marriage must be registered with the Registry Department. This process takes around 10 weeks, after which your official marriage certificate will be mailed to you.
Final Thoughts
Getting legally married in Belize isn’t the fastest process, but it’s worth it if you want international recognition or a specific wedding date. Hiring a marriage officer through your resort or coordinator can save you time and stress. If you’re getting married on one of the islands, travel to the mainland will be required. Avoiding these extra trips can save time and money, as transportation and wait times can be challenging in the heat.
We’re not discouraging anyone from getting legally married in Belize, but we do receive many questions about the costs involved. This breakdown helps explain why the process can be expensive and what options you have. Whether handling the paperwork yourself or hiring a professional, knowing these details will help you make the best decision for your special day.
Still have questions? Your resort or wedding coordinator can guide you through the process and handle the legalities for you! Contact us at dulcebelizeweddings@gmail.com.
