Overseas Weddings
A Guide to marrying abroad and a look at the top overseas wedding destinations
According to the research organisation Mintel, in 2005 the number of couples marrying abroad was over 45,000; and the numbers seem to be growing each year. It’s now estimated that around 15% of all marriages are taking place overseas.
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When you consider the expense of getting married in the UK, the costs associated with an overseas wedding seem small by comparison. Add the bonus of predictable good weather and you wonder why many more couples don’t do the same? Figures vary but the average cost in the UK is often mentioned as being between £16,000 to £20,000 while the average overseas wedding tends to cost an average of around £6,000.
A lot of couple are put off the idea by the complications of various formalities in different parts of the world. Around the European Union, and particularly in France, the rules are quite complex and rather prohibitive. But, with most, more exotic locations, the procedures are really quite straightforward and there is a lot of help available if you need it. Often many essential wedding items such as the bride's bouquet, groom's buttonhole, the marriage licence, cake and registrars fees are included as part of the wedding package.
Don’t forget to change the name on your passport. You can arrange this up to three months before the ceremony, although you’ll be unable to use your passport until the actual day of your marriage or civil partnership.
If you apply to amend your passport before you get married you will need leaflet PD1, which explains what you need to do, and form PD2 which is the passport application form.
Some of the most popular wedding destinations
Antigua
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The twin islands of Antigua and Barbuda are renowned for their 365 beautiful beaches. Antigua is the perfect Caribbean holiday destination. Tiny sister island Barbuda, the quintessential unspoilt paradise of pristine pink-white sands and luxurious resorts, elevates relaxation to an art form.
- Antigua Weddings with Virgin Holidays
- Antigua & Barbuda Weddings with Kuoni
- Expedia Destination Guide - Antigua & Barbuda
Weather: Avoid the hot, rainy season from May to September. The best time to visit is from December to March, excepting Valentine's Day.
Currency: East Caribbean Dollar EXD Symbol: $
- High Commission for Antigua and Barbuda
- Getting Married on Antigua and Barbuda
- Foreign & Commonwealth Office Travel Advice - Antigua and Barbuda
Sri Lanka
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Palm-lined Indian Ocean beaches and a fascinating culture, offering a more active honeymoon, plus the option of a twin-centre stay including the Maldives. Set in the Indian Ocean breathtaking views, magical experiences and friendly encounters define Sri Lanka.
Highlights include the ancient capitals of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, the cave temples at Dambulla, outstanding cousin and not to forget the magnificent elephants!
- Sri Lanka Weddings with Virgin Holidays
- Sri Lanka Weddings with Kuoni
- Going Places Destination Guide - Sri Lanka
The climate is tropical. Upland areas are cool and dry; coastal areas are warm but refreshed by sea breezes. The northeast monsoon blows from November to February, and the southwest monsoon from May to September. Temperatures are at their most pleasant from February to September.
Couples must spend four days in the country before the wedding. Documents required include valid passports, birth certificates and proof of single status.
Currency: Sri Lanka Rupees LKR Symbol: ₨
- SRI Lanka Tourist Board
- High Commission of Sri Lanka
- Registration of Marriages of Foreign Nationals in Sri Lanka
- Foreign & Commonwealth Office Travel Advice - Sri Lanka
Mauritius
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Lovely beaches, an interesting culture and good hotels. Set in a turquoise sea Mauritius is an oasis of peace and tranquillity.
- Mauritius Weddings with Virgin Holidays
- Mauritius Weddings with Kuoni
- Expedia Destination Guide - Mauritius
Weather: The best weather is in January to May, and October to November. The temperature on the coastal areas varies between 22°C in winter and 34°C in summer.
In Mauritius the 'Marital Status Act' requires that you should be resident for 24 hours, and produce valid passports and original birth certificates. You will also need a certificate stating that you are not Mauritian citizens.
Currency: Mauritian Rupees MUR Symbol: ₨
- Mauritius Welcomes You – Tourist Site
- Honeymoons & Marriage in Mauritius
- Foreign & Commonwealth Office Travel Office - Mauritius
Jamaica
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Jamaica one of the most laid back countries on Earth is the perfect location for a relaxed and informal wedding ceremony.
Jamaica's immaculate white sanded beaches, sparkling waterfalls and rivers, majestic mountains and multi-coloured gardens create a magical settings in which to celebrate your marriage.
Weather: The best time to visit is from December to March.
You can be married just 24 hour after arriving in Jamaica providing prior application has been made for a marriage license.
Currency: Jamaican Dollar JMD Symbol: J$
- Jamaican High Comission
- Explore Jamaica
- Weddings & Honeymoons Jamaica
- Foreign & Commonwealth Office Travel Office - Jamaica
Overseas weddings: Cyprus, South Africa & Mexico
Getting Married & Honeymoons in the USA