Table Of Contents
Captain Cook Cruises Fiji | Blog
Many people can’t imagine a more romantic setting to tie the knot than amidst the stunningly beautiful beaches of the South Pacific’s Fijian islands. But as with any foreign ceremony, the question of being legally recognised elsewhere in the world is a concern for those traveling to their wedding ceremony.
A few rumours seem to be circulating that Fiji Weddings are not recognised in other countries. First and foremost, this is not true; weddings in Fiji are legally recognised worldwide. Still, here are the 5 most important legal requirements that should be noted when considering holding a wedding in Fiji.
MARRIAGE LICENSE
Just as in most other countries, anyone seeking to marry in Fiji is required by law to obtain a marriage license from the registry office in Nadi prior to their ceremony. This license will remain valid for 21 days after the initial application. Alternately, a special license that is valid from 28 days from issue can be obtained from Registries located in Suva, Lautoka & Labasa and District Registries in Nadi, Sigatoka, Navua, Ba, Tavua, Rakiraki, Korovou, Nausori, Levuka, Nabouwalu, Savusavu, and Taveuni.
DOCUMENTATION
In order for your nuptials to proceed in Fiji, both the bride and groom will need to provide the following documentation to the Marriage Registry in Fiji at least two weeks prior to the ceremony.
- Original birth certificates for both the bride and groom
- Certified copies of bio-data page of Valid Passport for both parties
- Divorce Papers (if divorce was granted in the last five years)
- Current marital status
- Death Certificate of former spouse if either party is a widow or widower
- Parental consent is also required if either of the parties wishing to marry are under 21 years of age.
- A ‘Certificate of Single Status’ OR ‘Certificate of no legal impediment’ is required to be produced in any of the following circumstances:
- Marriage applicants where one party is a local and the other is a foreign citizen
- Marriage applicants who were former citizens of Fiji
- Marriage applicants who are foreigners and residing in Fiji
WITNESSES AND MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE SIGNING
Every wedding ceremony in Fiji must be performed in front of at least two witnesses who are at least 21 years of age, which is a fairly standard practice regardless of location.
The information provided for the marriage certificate must match that which was written in the marriage license. All copies of the certificate must also be signed by the bride, groom, two witnesses, and the Marriage Officer/Celebrant to be valid, and one of the original copies of the certificate should be given to the married couple immediately following the wedding ceremony while the second is bundled with the license and forwarded on to the registry within seven days.
OBTAINING AN “OFFICIAL” MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE
This is important because it can really throw a bit of a monkey wrench into things if it’s ignored.
The marriage certificate signed by the newlyweds, witnesses, and Marriage Officer is not actually the “official” certificate because it does not bear the seal of the Fiji Registrar General. Therefore, it will not be recognised in other jurisdictions as an official marriage certificate.
Once the Fiji Registrar General has received the completed marriage certificate and license and verified the documents, they will officially register the marriage. An official marriage certificate can then be obtained via mail or in person for a small cost. This may need to be lodged in your home country. In Australia, for example, locations where this request can be lodged include the Fiji High Commission in Canberra or the Fiji Consulate General in Sydney.
MARRIAGE FEES
Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common marriage fees in Fiji. If the marrying couple is not in the country ahead of time, a Wedding Coordinator can also submit the payments to Registrar General or the District Registry Office.
OVERVIEW OF FEES
- Application for Special license – $FJD 20.25
- Marriage officiated in the Registry – $FJD 22.50
- Marriage officiated by the Registrar/District Registrar after official hours – $FJD 30.68
- TAPA designed Marriage Certificate – $FJD 15.34
- Normal standard certificate – $FJD 5.63
WANT TO PLAN A WEDDING IN FIJI?
Nothing can beat Fiji for crafting the perfect romantic environment for your wedding (or honeymoon!). However, the planning process can become extremely stressful for both the bride and groom. We have a dedicated wedding planner to help ensure that your special day is exactly that. Check out our wedding packages or contact us to help start your plan today!
