As part of the suite of measures unveiled in Budget 2026, the Government of Guyana has moved to expand tourism‑related economic activity by removing the 14‑day residency requirement for destination weddings, a long‑standing hurdle for couples seeking to marry in Guyana.
Previously, foreign couples were required to remain in the country for at least two weeks before their marriage certificates could be issued—a provision that had been identified as a deterrent to positioning Guyana as a wedding destination in the Caribbean and beyond.
Speaking in the National Assembly during the presentation of the budget, Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh said the change will unlock new opportunities for the hospitality industry by attracting more couples and visitors who choose Guyana for their wedding ceremonies and related celebrations. The measure is expected to stimulate demand for hotel accomodation, event planning services, transportation, local vendors and cultural tourism experiences, creating jobs and increased revenue flows for small and medium enterprises across the sector.
Tourism officials and industry stakeholders have long pointed to the residency requirement as an impediment to developing “wedding tourism,” a niche market that has generated significant economic activity in other Caribbean destinations where minimal or no residency conditions apply.
By removing this barrier, Government aims to tap into a growing segment of international travellers seeking unique, culturally rich, and accessible wedding venues—helping to diversify Guyana’s tourism product while enhancing the overall competitiveness and appeal of the hospitality sector.
