The following are the basic requirements for obtaining a marriage licence in St. Maarten. 

All documents should be submitted at least 6 weeks in advance so we can  have time to submit them and have them verified (they're being very strict about the exact documents) and so please make sure of the following:

• The couple have either an original or certified copy (with an 'Apostille Stamp, which is basically a raised seal in the States) of their FULL birth certificates which state their PARENTS' NAMES, including their mothers' MAIDEN names. This is absolutely essential.
  
  
• A certified copy of their PASSPORT.
  
  
• A Certificate of no Impediment (not older than 3 months) which can be obtained from their local City Hall (or in Britain from their registry office)... this will state that a search has been conducted and no application for a marriage license has been found and they are therefore legally single and free to wed. It should also have an Apostille.
  
  
• In the case of divorce a certified copy of divorce DECREE ABSOLUTE (which must also mention the maiden name of the ex-wife). It should also have an Apostille.
  
  
• In the case of death of previous spouse a certified copy of DEATH CERTIFICATE, again which mentions maiden name of ex-wife.