What U.S. Couples Need To Know For A Seamless Antigua & Barbuda Destination Wedding

If you’re dreaming of soft white sand, turquoise water, and a celebration wrapped in Caribbean sunshine, a wedding in Antigua and Barbuda may be exactly the paradise you’ve been picturing.

Known for its 365 beaches (yes, one for every day of the year) and famously warm hospitality, Antigua and Barbuda has become one of the Caribbean’s most effortless and rewarding destinations for U.S. couples planning a legal wedding abroad.

Even cruise ship guests can tie the knot here, and the process is refreshingly streamlined. 

Below, we break down everything you need to know about marriage requirements in Antigua and Barbuda, from documents to fees to insider tips that make the process feel simple and stress-free.

As always, KT Travel & More is here to help you navigate every detail with clarity and confidence.

Is A Marriage In Antigua And Barbuda Legal In The U.S.?

Yes.

Marriages performed according to Antigua and Barbuda law are recognized as legal and binding in the United States. Once the ceremony is complete, you’ll receive a signed marriage license from the Marriage Officer, and you can later obtain an official marriage certificate from the Registrar General’s Office.

No extra legalization, translations, or U.S. Embassy steps are required.

How To Get Married In Antigua And Barbuda

Planning your destination wedding here is straightforward, just three simple steps:

1. Visit The Ministry Of Justice

Located on Nevis Street in downtown St. John’s, this is where you’ll submit your application, provide your documents, and pay the applicable fees.

2. Confirm Your Ceremony Date & Time

You’ll coordinate with a Marriage Officer (or your travel advisor will assist) to choose your ceremony time and location.

3. Get Married! Congratulations!

Once approved, your ceremony can take place almost immediately. No residency period is required, making Antigua one of the most flexible Caribbean islands for weddings.

Marriage Requirements In Antigua And Barbuda

Here’s what U.S. couples need to provide:

Required Documents

• Valid passports for both partners
• Original divorce decree (if previously married)
• Original marriage certificate and death certificate (if widowed)
• All documents must be original or certified originals
• All documents must be in your legal name
• Affidavits may be required if you have changed your name

Age Requirements

• Both parties must be over 15 years old
• If under 18, written parental or guardian consent is required

Witnesses

• Your ceremony must be witnessed by two people, not including the Marriage Officer

(If you’re eloping or traveling solo, don’t worry, your resort or onsite coordinator can help.)

Marriage Fees In Antigua And Barbuda

Here are the standard government fees:

• Registration fee: $40 USD
• Special Marriage License fee: $150 USD
• Marriage Officer’s fee: $50 USD

Fees must be paid at the courthouse or the Ministry of Justice.

Important timing note: Flights arriving after 3:00 pm may not allow you to reach the Ministry of Justice in time to apply the same day. In that case, you can apply the next morning and marry later that day or the following day.

Can You Get Married In A Church In Antigua & Barbuda?

Yes, church weddings are welcome, but they require coordination with the church authorities. Your pastor will need to contact the local church to confirm requirements, and some churches ask couples to complete pre-nuptial consultations.

If you’re dreaming of a religious ceremony, plan for a little extra lead time.

Do Resorts Assist With Destination Weddings In Antigua?

Absolutely.

Most resorts in Antigua and Barbuda offer dedicated wedding and honeymoon packages, and many include on-site coordinators to help with ceremony logistics.

At KT Travel & More, we work closely with these teams to ensure your entire group, no matter how big, is supported, cared for, and fully taken care of from the moment they land.

Why Couples Choose Antigua & Barbuda For A Destination Wedding

Besides the ease of getting legally married, the islands offer:

• Year-round sunshine and ideal beach weather
• Wide selection of luxury, boutique, and all-inclusive resorts
• Quick processing times, no waiting days to marry
• Warm, romantic Caribbean charm that feels intimate and elevated

Whether you’re planning a private elopement or a full weekend of events, Antigua and Barbuda offers the relaxed elegance so many couples crave.

Your Caribbean Wedding, Made Effortless

Navigating international paperwork and government offices doesn’t have to be overwhelming. That’s exactly why KT Travel & More exists.

We guide you through the legal requirements, coordinate with local authorities, assist your guests, and help you select the perfect resort for your celebration.

If Antigua and Barbuda is calling your name, we’d love to help you turn the dream into a perfectly planned reality.

Ready to plan your Antigua destination wedding? Reach out today to book your complimentary destination wedding consultation!

Or, if you want even more clarity before making big decisions, discover The Travel Agent’s Guide to Planning a Destination Wedding!