Second Marriage in Anguilla: A Complete Guide to Legal Requirements, Process, and Tips

Dreaming of starting a beautiful new chapter of your life in a tropical paradise? Whether you’re saying “I do” for the second time or renewing your vows, Anguilla is a serene, sun-kissed Caribbean island that offers a perfect backdrop. But before you start planning your beachfront ceremony, it’s important to understand the legal requirements for a second marriage in Anguilla.

This detailed guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from eligibility rules and paperwork to helpful tips that make your special day smooth and stress-free. Let’s dive in!

Why Choose Anguilla for Your Second Marriage?

First, let’s take a moment to appreciate why so many couples choose Anguilla for their destination wedding. Small, peaceful, and stunningly scenic, the island offers:

Romantic beaches with turquoise waters and white sands
Fast and simple marriage process
Friendly wedding laws for foreigners
A relaxed atmosphere, far from the bustle of big cities
Charming resorts, villas, and churches for every style and budget

Whether you’re planning a low-key ceremony or a more elaborate event, Anguilla delivers in both beauty and simplicity.

Who Can Get Married in Anguilla?

The good news? You don’t have to be a resident of Anguilla to get married there. In fact, people from all over the world come here for legal weddings, including second and third marriages.

Basic Eligibility Requirements

Both parties must be at least 18 years old. If you or your partner is under 18, special written consent is required.
Both parties must be single, divorced, or widowed at the time of marriage. You can’t be legally married to someone else.
Proof of identity and marital status is mandatory.

This means you’ll need to provide the right documentation—and we’ll get to that next.

Legal Documents Required for a Second Marriage in Anguilla

When getting married for the second time, you’ll need to submit specific documents to prove your eligibility. Here’s what’s typically required:

Valid passports (or other official ID like a driver’s license)
Birth certificates for both parties
Divorce decree absolute, if either of you was previously married and divorced
Death certificate and marriage certificate from previous spouse if widowed
Two witnesses must be present at your ceremony (some venue services provide them if needed)

Important note: All documents should be in English. If they aren’t, you must provide an official certified translation.

How Long Do You Need to Stay in Anguilla Before Getting Married?

One of the best things about tying the knot in Anguilla is that the residency requirement is very minimal. Unlike some destinations that require you to be present for several days in advance, Anguilla is much more flexible.

If you’ve already made travel plans, you’ll be happy to know that:

There is no residency requirement for couples getting married in Anguilla.
However, both parties must be physically present in Anguilla when applying for the marriage license.

Getting the Marriage License: Step-by-Step Guide

Even with a second marriage, the process of obtaining a marriage license in Anguilla is quick and efficient. Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Visit the Judicial Department or the Ministry of Home Affairs

You can go to either the Judicial Department or the Ministry of Home Affairs to apply. It usually doesn’t take more than a day for the application to be processed. Make sure to bring all the necessary documents with you.

Step 2: Choose the Right Type of Marriage License

There are two kinds of marriage licenses you can apply for:

Special License: Costs more but allows you to get married almost immediately—within 24 hours of arrival.
Ordinary License: More affordable but comes with a waiting period of at least 3 days.

Step 3: Pay the Fees

The marriage license isn’t free. Fees can vary depending on the type of license you’re applying for. Be prepared to pay in East Caribbean Dollars (XCD) or equivalent in US dollars.

Step 4: Schedule Your Wedding

Once your license is approved, you can choose your preferred wedding location and officiant. Marriages can be conducted by a licensed minister, registrar, or notary public.

Who Can Officiate at Your Ceremony?

In Anguilla, several official roles are allowed to conduct marriage ceremonies:

Registrar of marriages
Licensed marriage officer
A religious officiant or a minister

Just make sure the person officiating is legally recognized by the government of Anguilla.

Religious vs. Civil Ceremonies

When planning your second marriage in Anguilla, you can choose between two types of ceremonies:

Civil Ceremony: Conducted by a government official such as the Registrar. This is ideal for those who prefer a simple, non-religious ceremony.
Religious Ceremony: Conducted in a church or faith-based venue by an ordained clergy member.

You can even combine both if you’d like a legal civil wedding followed by a religious blessing or celebration.

Where Can You Get Married in Anguilla?

From beach resorts to boutique hotels and private villas, Anguilla offers countless dreamy venues for your second marriage. Here are some popular options:

Beachfront weddings with stunning ocean views
Luxurious resorts with full wedding planning services
Rustic villas or garden venues for a more intimate ambiance
Historic churches for traditional religious ceremonies

Need help choosing? Many local wedding planners can assist with venue selection, decoration, and logistics, especially useful if you’re organizing from abroad.

Tips for a Successful Second Marriage in Anguilla

Planning a second wedding can be just as exciting as the first. Here’s how to make it special:

Create a personalized ceremony that reflects your journey together
Don’t stress about traditions—make your own rules this time around
Include your children or family if you have them—many second marriages are about uniting existing families
Go minimalist or extravagant—it’s your day, your way

If you’ve been married before, you know that it’s not about the glitz—it’s about the love, trust, and partnership you share.

Is Your Anguilla Marriage Legally Valid Back Home?

Yes, marriages performed in Anguilla are legally recognized worldwide, including in the U.S., Canada, UK, and most European countries. However, it’s always smart to check with your local registrar or legal advisor back home for peace of mind.

Summary Checklist: What You Need for a Second Marriage in Anguilla

Here’s a quick reference to keep your planning on track:

Valid ID and passport
Certified copy of birth certificate
Proof of divorce (divorce decree) or death of previous spouse (death certificate)
Witnesses (usually two adults)
Marriage license (special or ordinary)
Officiant (civil or religious)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I remarry in Anguilla if I’m not from the island?

Absolutely! Anguilla welcomes non-residents to marry on the island. Just follow the legal steps, have your documents ready, and you’re good to go.

2. How fast can we get married?

If you apply for a special license, you can get married within 24 hours of arrival.

3. Can I marry my partner in a church if one of us isn’t religious?

Most churches require at least one partner to be a member of the faith, but civil ceremonies are a great alternative. You can always follow up with a blessing service if desired.

4. What if my divorce decree is in another language?

You’ll need to provide an official English translation of the document, along with a certified copy of the original.

Final Thoughts: A Fresh Start in Paradise

Whether you’re celebrating newfound love or marking a second chance, a wedding in Anguilla offers everything you need: legal ease, natural beauty, and unforgettable moments. With friendly people, clear skies, and gentle waves, you can focus on what truly matters—each other.

Planning a second marriage doesn’t have to be complicated. Just follow the steps, gather your documents, and let Anguilla’s natural charm do the rest.

Your love story deserves a beautiful new beginning—and Anguilla is the perfect place to write your next chapter.

Second Marriage in Anguilla: Legal Requirements, Process and Tips