Navigating Marriage Laws in Trinidad & Tobago: Understanding the Legal Framework

In Trinidad & Tobago, marriage is legally defined as the union between a man and a woman as husband and wife. The country recognizes four distinct types of marriages, each with its own specific requirements and procedures governed by the Civil Marriage Act and overseen by licensed Marriage Officers.

Types of Marriages Recognized

Civil Marriage

Trinidad & Tobago Marriage Laws
    • Can be performed by designated officials such as Wardens, the Registrar General, or licensed Marriage Officers.
    • All Christian marriages conducted in churches by a licensed Marriage Officer are considered civil marriages.

Hindu Marriage

Trinidad & Tobago Marriage Laws

    • Governed by specific Hindu Marriage laws and practices.
    • Requires solemnization by a licensed Marriage Officer.

Muslim Marriage

Trinidad & Tobago Marriage Laws
    • Governed by Islamic laws and practices.
    • Requires solemnization by a licensed Marriage Officer.

Orisa Marriage

Trinidad & Tobago Marriage Laws
    • Governed by specific Orisa Marriage laws and practices.
    • Requires solemnization by a licensed Marriage Officer.

Legal Requirements and Procedures

Minimum Age and Exceptions

  • The minimum age to marry under Trinidad & Tobago’s Civil Marriage Act is 18 years, with exceptions possible on religious grounds.
  • Muslim marriages can be solemnized from age 12.
  • Hindu marriages can be solemnized from age 16.
Arranging a Civil Marriage
  1. Giving Notice of Marriage
    • Couples must appear in person at a Civil Registry office to submit a Notice of Marriage.
    • This requirement also applies to those planning religious ceremonies.
  2. Documentation Required
    • Proof of identity (e.g., National ID Card, Driver’s Permit, or Passport).
    • Proof of address (e.g., utility bill).
    • Non-Trinbagonian nationals must provide permission to marry from Immigration Control.
  3. Waiting Period
    • After submitting the Notice of Marriage, a mandatory waiting period of at least seven days applies before the marriage ceremony can take place.
    • The notice remains valid for one year.
  4. Previous Marriages
    • Individuals with prior marriages must present evidence of dissolution (e.g., original divorce decree or death certificate of the former spouse).
  5. Fees
    • The cost for a marriage license is TT$62.50.
    • An additional TT$25.00 is charged for a certified copy of the Marriage Certificate (subject to change).

Additional Considerations for Foreign Nationals

  • Foreign nationals and individuals subject to Immigration Control must obtain prior authorization from the Registrar General before their marriage can proceed.
  • Marriage in Trinidad & Tobago or with a Trinidadian citizen does not confer automatic residency or immigration rights.

Where to Obtain Further Information

For comprehensive guidance on civil or religious marriages, interested parties are advised to contact the Registrar General’s Office or visit the Ministry of Legal Affairs via the Government of Trinidad & Tobago – TT Connect.

Contact Information:

Registrar General’s Office (Port of Spain)
Registration House
South Quay
Port of Spain
Trinidad, West Indies
Tel: (868) 624-1660
Opening hours: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays)
Registrar General Division (Tobago)
Central Administrative Services, Tobago (CAST)
Jerningham Street
Scarborough
Tobago, West Indies
Tel: (868) 639-2652-7
Fax: (868) 639-2505
Email: [email protected]
Opening hours: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays)
This structured approach provides clarity on the legal requirements and procedures for marriage in Trinidad & Tobago, ensuring individuals are well-informed when navigating the process.

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