Jamaican Weddings In Canada: Legally Binding Or Not?

Jamaica is a popular destination for weddings, with its golden sandy beaches, sweeping mountain panoramas, and crystal-like waters. But are Jamaican weddings legal in Canada?

In Canada, the law of the country where the marriage took place determines whether the marriage is valid. Generally, an international marriage will be recognised in Canada as long as it complies with Canadian federal law and is considered legal in the country where it took place.

Therefore, a marriage in Jamaica that complies with Canadian federal law will be considered legal in Canada. However, it is important to note that same-sex marriages are not legal in Jamaica, so same-sex couples should be aware of this when considering a destination wedding in Jamaica.

Obtaining a marriage license in Canada before the wedding

Obtaining a marriage license in Canada before a wedding is a smart move for peace of mind. Here's a step-by-step guide to obtaining a marriage license in Canada:

• Understand the difference between a marriage license and a marriage certificate: A marriage license is required to make your union legal, while a marriage certificate is a separate legal document that proves your marriage and provides details. You will need the marriage certificate for things like changing your name on your ID and for certain legal matters.
• Decide on the type of marriage ceremony: In Canada, you have the option of a religious or civil marriage service. For a religious ceremony, ensure that the recognized religious official is authorized to perform marriage rites in Canada. For a civil ceremony, the officiant is typically a judge, municipal clerk, or justice of the peace.
• Determine the required forms: The forms needed depend on the type of ceremony. If both parties are marrying for the first time, you may choose the "publication of banns," a traditional religious ritual. Otherwise, you will need to apply for a marriage license.
• Gather the necessary documents: When applying for a marriage license, each individual will need to present two pieces of valid government-issued identification. Accepted forms of ID include a valid passport, birth certificate (with any name changes), record of immigration, Canadian citizenship card, driver's license, or a valid Ontario photo card.
• Pay the required fee: The cost of the marriage license varies depending on the Canadian province where you apply.
• Be mindful of timing: A marriage license is typically valid for a limited period, such as 90 days from the date of issue. Plan your application accordingly to ensure the license remains valid for your wedding date.
• Apply at the correct location: Obtain your marriage license from the local town hall, city hall, or municipal court office in the province or territory where your wedding will take place.
• Order your marriage certificate: After your wedding, you will need to order your marriage certificate. This legal document provides proof of your marriage. In most cases, you must order it after your marriage has been registered by your officiant in the province or territory where the wedding took place.

By following these steps, you can obtain a marriage license in Canada before your wedding, ensuring that your special day complies with the legal requirements.

Getting a Jamaican marriage license

If you're planning to get married in Jamaica, there are a few things you need to know and some steps you need to take to obtain a marriage license. Here's a guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Meet the Requirements

• Age: Both parties must be at least 18 years old. If either party is 16 or 17, parental consent is required.
• Relationship Status: Neither party should already be legally married to someone else.
• Blood Relatives: The parties should not be blood relatives.
• Presence in Jamaica: Visitors planning to get married in Jamaica must be in the country for at least 24 hours before the wedding ceremony. There is no such restriction for those who permanently reside on the island.

Step 2: Gather the Necessary Documents

• Declaration Form: Obtain a declaration form, which can be downloaded from the Ministry of Justice website or collected from their office. This form needs to be completed by someone who has knowledge of the impending marriage (a friend or family member) and signed in the presence of a Justice of the Peace in Jamaica.
• Minister's Marriage License Form: Collect a blank minister's marriage license form from the Ministry of Justice office. This form cannot be obtained online or by mail.
• Supporting Documents: Gather the following original or certified supporting documents for both parties:
• Picture identification (passport, driver's license, or national identification)
• Birth certificate (including the father's name)
• Final divorce decree/certificate (if applicable)
• Death certificate of former spouse (if applicable)
• Documents supporting any change of name (if applicable)
• Letter of consent from a legal parent/guardian if either party is 16 or 17 years old, signed in the presence of and certified by a Justice of the Peace or Notary Public.
• Translation: If the documents are not in English, they must be translated by certified translators, and the certification of authenticity should be attached.

Step 3: Submit the Application

• Stamping the Marriage License Form: Take the blank minister's marriage license form to the Stamp Duty Office in Kingston and pay the stamp duty fee of approximately $50 USD. The form will be stamped after payment.
• Submit Documents: Return the completed declaration form, stamped minister's marriage license form, and supporting documents to the Ministry of Justice. You can submit them in person or by mail.

Step 4: Obtain the Marriage License

• Processing Time: For walk-in clients, the processing time is typically within the same day or the next business day. However, applications that include divorce granted locally may take up to 7 business days.
• Validity: The minister's marriage license is valid for 90 days from the date of issuance. If it expires before use, you will need to reapply for a new license.
• Marriage Ceremony: Once you have obtained the marriage license, you can proceed with your wedding plans. Marriage ceremonies can be conducted every day between 6:00 AM and 8:00 PM.

Step 5: After the Wedding

• Marriage Register: Immediately after the ceremony, you will receive a copy of the Marriage Register, which serves as proof of marriage. This is signed by the marriage officer, the couple, and their witnesses. However, please note that this is not a legal document and cannot be used for official purposes.
• Marriage Certificate: To obtain a legal marriage certificate, apply through the Registrar General's Department. The processing time is typically between 7 working days to 1 month. You can apply for it yourself or have the marriage officer do it for you.

By following these steps, you will be able to obtain a Jamaican marriage license and have a hassle-free wedding in this beautiful country. Congratulations and best wishes on your special day!

Documentation required for a Jamaican wedding

To get married in Jamaica, you must have been in the country for at least 24 hours before the ceremony can be performed. A blood test is not required.

To obtain a marriage licence, you will need the following documentation:

• Proof of citizenship — a certified copy of your birth certificate, which includes your father's name
• Parental consent in writing if you are under 18 years of age
• Proof of divorce (original certificate of divorce) if applicable
• Certified copy of death certificate for widow or widower
• Proof of identity — a passport or driver's licence
• Occupations of both parties

If your documents are not in English, they will need to be translated by an official translator and then certified by your local Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as by your nearest Jamaican Mission or Honorary Consulate.

The cost of a marriage licence is four thousand Jamaican dollars (approximately US$75-US$80).

Legalising a Jamaican marriage certificate for non-English speaking countries

If you are a non-English speaker and are looking to legalise your Jamaican marriage certificate, there are a few important steps you need to follow. Firstly, it is important to understand that marriages performed in Jamaica are recognised as legal in many countries, including the United States. However, if your country of origin does not have an embassy or consulate in Jamaica, you may need to take additional steps to legalise your marriage certificate. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Obtain the Necessary Documents

Before your wedding, you will need to gather several mandatory documents, including a certified copy of your birth certificate, parental consent if you are under 18, proof of divorce or a death certificate if applicable, and a completed declaration form. These documents must be translated into English and notarised, if necessary. It is important to contact the Jamaican Consulate or Embassy in your home country to ensure you have all the required documents.

Step 2: Apply for a Marriage Licence

Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you can apply for a marriage licence by contacting a wedding planner or the Registrar General's Department in Jamaica. This process can usually be completed within two weeks of your wedding. There is a fee for the marriage licence, which is typically around $50 USD.

Step 3: The Wedding Ceremony

After obtaining your marriage licence, you can proceed with your wedding ceremony. By law, you must be in Jamaica for at least 24 hours before the ceremony can take place. The ceremony can be performed by a marriage officer, who may charge a fee for their services. The marriage officer will present the couple with a signed marriage licence after the ceremony.

Step 4: Obtain a Certified Marriage Certificate

Following the ceremony, you will need to obtain a certified copy of your marriage certificate. This can be applied for through the Registrar General's Department, either by the couple or the marriage officer. The processing time is typically between 7 working days to 1 month. There is also an express service available for faster processing.

Step 5: Legalisation by Your Embassy/Consulate

If your country's language is not English, the final step is to legalise your marriage certificate through your Embassy or Consulate in Jamaica. They will authenticate the document, and in some cases, forward it to your home country's Embassy or Consulate for further legalisation. Only after this step is complete, will your marriage be recognised as a legal union in your country of origin.

Additional Considerations:

It is important to note that the Marriage Register provided immediately after the ceremony is not a legal document and cannot be used for official purposes. Additionally, if you are a French Canadian, you will need to provide notarised translations of all documents, along with photocopies of the original French documents. For Italian nationals, the marriage certificate must be forwarded to their embassy for legalisation and translation.

In summary, getting married in Jamaica as a non-English speaker requires careful planning and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your marriage is legally recognised in your home country.

The role of a marriage officer

Marriage officers are responsible for collecting and verifying all the required documentation from the couple, including IDs, divorce decrees, and witness IDs. They also ensure that the couple has fulfilled the requirements to be married, such as age, marital status, and resident status.

On the day of the wedding, the marriage officer is expected to arrive early, coordinate with the venue and DJ, and dress appropriately. They are also responsible for delivering the ceremony according to the couple's wishes and directions.

After the ceremony, the marriage officer completes the register and provides the couple with a marriage certificate. The officer then submits the documentation to the relevant authorities and verifies that the marriage has been registered. They also advise the couple on any delays or problems with the registration process.

Marriage officers may also meet with the couple beforehand to discuss their ceremony needs and guide them through the planning process. They are responsible for answering any questions or concerns the couple may have leading up to the wedding day.

Frequently asked questions