St. Martin

Motto: "The Friendly Island"
Language: French
Currency: Euro (€) (EUR)
Airports: Princess Juliana Int'l Airport (SXM, Dutch side), Grand Case–Espérance Airport (SFG)
Known for: French sophistication, white-sand beaches, duty-free shopping
Official Tourism Website: https://st-martin.org
Drives on the: Right Side
Calling Code: +590

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The Isle of Two

One Island, Two Nations, Infinite Possibilities St. Martin is a unique gem in the Caribbean, a single island shared by two nations. The northern French side, known as St. Martin, is an overseas collectivity of France, while the southern Dutch side, Sint Maarten, is an autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

St. MartinThough divided by nationality and culture, the island functions seamlessly. There is normally no routine border control at the land crossing, although each side has its own entry rules. Keep your travel documents with you when exploring both sides.

A Shared-Island Experience

With its stunning landscapes, pristine beaches, and countless opportunities for watersports, St. Martin caters to both relaxation and adventure seekers alike. Choose from bustling beaches with lively music to secluded, romantic coves ideal for quiet reflection or couples' escapes.

French St. Martin

The capital, Marigot, charms visitors with its sheltered marina, vibrant Caribbean architecture, open-air markets, and duty-free boutiques featuring high-end fashion, jewelry, cosmetics, and liquor. Dining here is a must—the island is often called one of the gastronomic capitals of the Caribbean. Indulge in fine French-Caribbean fusion cuisine at any of the many exquisite restaurants.

Dutch Sint Maarten

Energetic and eclectic, the Dutch side is known for nightlife, casinos, and beach bars. It also serves as a hub for island-hopping adventures.

Island-Hopping Adventures

St. Martin is perfectly located for quick trips to neighboring islands. Take a ferry to Anguilla, St. Barts, or Saba, or a short flight to St. Eustatius or St. Kitts & Nevis. Ensure your travel documents and visas are in order, and your Caribbean escape could easily extend across several cultures and countries.

A Lovers’ Paradise

Whether you stay in a luxury resort, a charming hillside villa, or a cozy guesthouse, the island promises white sands, turquoise waters, and hidden romantic getaways. Picture yourself sipping a fresh island cocktail, strolling hand-in-hand at sunset, or sharing a candlelit beachfront dinner. St. Martin is tailor-made for love. Savor every moment.

Marriage Requirements for St. Martin

Reviewed 9 November 2026. Requirements depend on your circumstances and may change. Confirm with the official marriage authority before booking.

Arrange a legally recognized civil marriage through the Collectivité de Saint-Martin. The normal minimum age is 18. A religious or symbolic celebration does not replace the civil ceremony.

Marriage banns must be published for ten days. Contact the civil-status office well in advance: document checks and publication must be complete before the ceremony date can be confirmed.

Contact the civil-status service to obtain its current marriage dossier and confirm your eligibility, documents and ceremony date.

Hôtel de la Collectivité, Rue de la mairie, Marigot, 97801 Saint-Martin
Telephone: +590 590 87 50 04
Email: etat-civil@com-saint-martin.fr

Expect to provide identity documents, birth records, proof of address and witness information, plus divorce or death records if previously married. Foreign nationals may also need certificates of custom and unmarried status. A marriage contract, where applicable, must be declared.

Ask the civil-status service which documents, issue dates, certified French translations and apostilles or legalization apply to your nationality and circumstances. Do not assume that every document needs the same certification.

The local ordinary procedure requires at least one partner to have a qualifying domicile or residence in Saint-Martin; the residence period is at least one month by the publication of banns.

French national guidance also provides an overseas-collectivity option for two foreign nationals who do not live in France. For this exceptional route, Article 58 of the 2009 law requires the dossier at least one month before publication of the banns, with a sworn translator-interpreter present for the ceremony; a consular interview may also be required. Confirm the procedure directly with the Collectivité before planning a destination wedding. Do not assume nationality alone establishes eligibility.

Submit a complete file and obtain the civil-status office’s confirmation before committing to a date. The ten-day banns publication period must be respected. Ask the office about your particular residence connection, witness requirements and any additional approvals.

Important Links for St. Martin

To learn more about St. Martin, please see the important links below:

Entry Requirements for St. Martin

How to Get to St. Martin

Places to Stay

Things To Do

Getting Around St. Martin

Events

Dining

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