Getting married is one of life’s most beautiful milestones. Whether you’re planning a civil, religious, or traditional ceremony, understanding the steps involved can make the process so much smoother. Let me walk you through everything you need to know, including the different types of marriages recognized in Trinidad and Tobago.
Highlights
Step 1: Post Your Banns
The Posting of Banns is the first step in the legal marriage process in Trinidad and Tobago. Think of it as a public announcement of your intention to get married, which allows anyone to raise legal objections if necessary.
- What You Need:
Valid IDs: Ensure both you and your partner bring government-issued IDs (passport, national ID, or driver’s license).
Decree Absolute: If either of you is divorced, you’ll need this document to prove your legal freedom to remarry.
Death Certificate: If either of you is widowed, bring the death certificate of your late spouse.
Valid Passport: If either of you is a non-national, this is required for verification. - The Process:
Visit your nearest District Registrar’s Office together.
Fill out the Notice to District Registrar form.Pay the required fee (currently TT$10). - The Timeline:
Your banns will be posted for seven working days. This waiting period allows for transparency and ensures no legal objections are raised.After the posting period, you can collect your marriage license.
Step 2: Obtain Your Marriage License
Once the banns posting period is over, you can collect your marriage license from the District Registrar’s Office. This document is valid for six months, so make sure to plan your wedding within that timeframe.
Step 3: Choose the Type of Marriage Ceremony
In Trinidad and Tobago, there are several types of marriages recognized under the law. Each type has specific steps and requirements:
- Civil Marriage
Conducted by the Registrar of Marriages at the Warden’s Office or your venue of choice.
Both parties and their witnesses must be present on the wedding day.
Additional Steps: Schedule your wedding date with the Registrar after obtaining your marriage license. - Hindu Marriage
Conducted by a Pundit in accordance with Hindu rites and customs.
The marriage must be registered with the District Registrar by the officiating Pundit after the ceremony.
Additional Steps: Ensure the Pundit is registered and submit any documents they require before the wedding. - Muslim Marriage (Nikah)
Conducted by a Maulvi or Muslim marriage officer in accordance with Islamic traditions.
The Maulvi must register the marriage with the government to make it legally binding.
Additional Steps: Consult your Maulvi regarding documentation and requirements. - Orisa Marriage
Conducted by an Orisa Marriage Officer according to Orisa traditions.
Like other religious ceremonies, it must be registered with the Registrar’s Office to be legally recognized.
Step 4: Plan Your Wedding Ceremony and Get Married!
Once you’ve decided on the type of marriage, it’s time to finalize the details of your ceremony:
- Venue: Whether it’s a church, temple, mosque, or garden, make sure to book your venue early.
- Witnesses: You’ll need at least two witnesses who are 18 years or older to sign the marriage register.
- Marriage Officer: Ensure your officiant is licensed to perform legal marriages in Trinidad and Tobago.
Additional Steps for Non-Nationals
If you or your partner is not a citizen of Trinidad and Tobago, there are extra steps involved:
- Immigration Approval: Non-nationals may need to provide proof of legal status in the country, such as a visa or residency permit.
- Affidavit of Marital Status: Some non-nationals may be required to provide a sworn affidavit confirming their single status.
- Waiting Period: Ensure you have enough time in the country to complete the entire process, including the posting of banns and the wedding itself.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose a civil ceremony at the Warden’s Office or a traditional religious wedding, following these steps will ensure your process goes smoothly.
If you’re ready to start this exciting chapter, we have blogs to help you through this exciting time.
