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

Types of Marriages Recognized

Civil Marriage

• • 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

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

Muslim Marriage

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

Orisa Marriage

• • 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.

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.