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Elope in Turks and Caicos

 
 

Why Get Married in Turks and Caicos?

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The Turks and Caicos Islands is a magical place for your wedding or destination elopement because it’s secluded and offers a balance of luxury and adventure. You have options when it comes to vendors and venues but there are a few things you should know before you decide to elope in Turks and Caicos.

It was a dream when I got hired to shoot my first wedding in the TCI. Spending 3 days capturing a wedding in one of the world’s top destination wedding locations was on my photographer bucket list. I even spent some extra time on the islands and got to know some locals who lead me to secret spots that I never would have found otherwise.

Lot’s of couples would love to elope in TCI but just don’t know where to start. I made this simple guide for couples looking for a one-stop-shop on how to get married in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

 

How to Get Married in Turks and Caicos

 
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Step 1

legal requirements for getting married in the islands.

Pro Recommendation: The Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands

What do I need to get a marriage license in the Turks & Caicos Islands?

  • Photo identification/ passport id

  • Birth certificate

  • From a certificate of no-impediment the registry, country/state where you reside

  • Affidavit of single status (office will provide form)

  • Divorce decree (if needed)

  • Death certificate (if widow or widower) and, copy of marriage certificate verifying the marriage between the deceased spouse and declarant

  • Copy of legal status (work permit or immigration status)

  • Two (2) declaration forms

  • Application form for a special license. (application form can be obtained from the registrar general’s office or from any marriage officer)

  • Copy of TCI immigration arrival and departure stamp

  • Visitors or tourist must be in the Turks and Caicos 48hours before submitting an application

  • Persons under the age of 21 years must have consent from parents or guardians

  • Application fee- $250

  • All copies of documents must be notarized and sealed

*Marriage Licenses are issued at the office of the Registrar in Providenciales. Their office is open to the public Mondays through Fridays between the hours of 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Don’t forget that any passports or documents written other than in English need to be translated in advance and notarized.

**For further information please contact the registrar general’s office in the Turks & Caicos Islands: 649-946-2801


Step 2

where/When to get married in the ISlands.

Pro Recommendation:

Providenciales because of it’s established destination wedding culture like all-inclusive resorts and luxury beach venues that have been helping couples get married for years. This is the most common island to get married on.

North and Middle Caicos because it’s a short boat ride from Providenciales and the most magical beach cliffs. I explored this whole island on my last trip and it was easy to get to. If you plan on driving yourself then make sure you rent a car at the dock before getting on the boat to North and Middle Caicos.

South Caicos because it’s almost secluded and untouched. With only two luxury resorts, a hotel, and a few vacation rentals, South Caicos is the destination elopement dream.

Where Is The Best Place To Get Married In The Turks and Caicos Islands?

Providenciales is the only island that you can have larger weddings at resorts plus it’s the island with the airport. For small weddings or elopements, you can get married on any of the islands, however, there are additional transportation costs from Providenciales to another island. The smaller and less-inhabited islands are spectacular destinations, yet in addition to the transportation considerations, they do not feature the resorts and facilities for larger weddings but are perfect for elopements or smaller weddings.

Two of the most popular resorts to get married at are Beaches Resort and The Sands at Grace Bay but if you’re feeling up for an adventurous elopement then check out Middle or North Caicos (my personal favorite). At my last wedding in the islands, I explored these two less inhabited islands and found it to be perfect for elopements!

*For an alternative wedding venue check out the boat charters too!

When Is The Best Time To Get Married In The Turks and Caicos Islands?

April is the best month to visit the islands because of the beautiful weather but January and March are great too. The rainiest month is November.

Check the yearly weather in the Turks and Caicos Islands


Step 3

Plan your wedding.

Pro Recommendation: Tropical Destination Management Company

Just like in the U.S. there are many decisions to be made for your wedding day in the Islands. Here is a checklist to help you plan:

  • Hire a Wedding Planner or DIY. Both are great but one requires more work and the other requires more money.

  • Style your wedding. Decide what colors and materials you’d like to be seen at your wedding. If you’re DIYing then keep it simple.

  • Book vendors. Hiring local island wedding vendors is important to the ecosystem of the island and locals but some couples do while bringing their own photographers and videographers from their hometowns.

  • Invite guests. Think long and hard about how many guests you want because this could affect your venue or how long you stay because of the cost accrued. Elopements or small weddings are best for budget weddings in Turks and Caicos.

    *TIP: Before you leave make a checklist with items like travel documents, confirm flights, passports handy, or wedding dress.