Travel Tips for Turks & Caicos

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Note: All United States citizens are required to have a valid passport to re-enter the United States.

Size / Population: The Turks & Caicos Islands are two groups of thirty islands totaling 166 square miles with population of 32,000. The tourist island of Providenciales (Provo) is about 38 square miles and has a population of 6,600.

Political Status: British Overseas Territory.

Language: English is the primary language.

Currency: The U.S. dollar is the national currency. ATMs are available in tourist areas and credit cards are widely accepted – not at every establishment so be sure so ask beforehand in smaller shops and restaurants.

Electricity: The tourist resorts use 110 volts, same as U.S.

Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time; Daylight Saving Time is observed.

Communication: To call Turks & Caicos (Provo) from the U.S direct dial 1 + 649 + the 7-digit local number. Internet is available mainly via internet cafes around Grace Bay. Check with your cell phone provider for international coverage.

Drinking Water: Water is generally safe to drink in resorts. As on many islands, fresh water is precious, as they depend upon rainfall or desalinated water produced by reverse osmosis for the supply. Please be conservative in using water. Bottled water is readily available.

Transportation: Taxis are abundant but be sure to set a price before you go. There is the Gecko Shuttle that runs the length of Grace Bay that can take you around to the many hot spots. A one day pass is $11. Another good way to get around this peaceful island is to rent a car or a scooter. Drivers must be 21-25 years old (varies by rental company) and must be in possession of a valid driver’s license and major credit card.

Local Customs: The legal drinking age is 18. Driving is on the left. Tipping: generally 15-20% in restaurants; bellmen: $1 per bag; housecleaning staff: $1-$2 per day. Taxi drivers expect tips, generally 10% of fare.

Getting Married: U.S. citizens can legally get married in Turks & Caicos. Please contact a NEWSOME TRAVEL representative for details on resorts offering special wedding packages and to discuss your particular wedding requirements. Our experienced group department will be happy to assist with travel arrangements for all attendees.

Wedding Requirements
The information below is a general list of requirements to perform a legal wedding ceremony in Turks & Caicos. Please check with the Turks & Caicos tourism department or wedding coordinator at your resort for additional information on legal requirements and fees for weddings in Turks & Caicos. All information below is subject to change without notice.
Documentation: The bride/groom must bring original copies of the following documents:
• Notarized original copy of official birth certificate
• A valid, non-expired passport
• Deed Poll if there has been a name change (If a legal name change has occurred a notarized copy of this is required.)
• Evidence of date of arrival to Turks & Caicos (copy of entry cards received upon arrival)
• Written authorization from the parents/guardians if the bride or groom is under 21 years of age in the form of an affidavit stamped by the Notary Public
• A declaration must be filled out by both parties stating you are of legal age, not related, etc.
• Divorce or death certificate if applicable
Divorced/Widowed Travelers: Divorced or widowed parties must provide official copies of the divorce decree or a certified death certificate.
Waiting Period/Residency Requirement: The bride/groom must be in the destination for at least 72 hours prior to the wedding, which must include 3 business days to process paper work (day of arrival can't be included). You must be on island for 24 hours to establish residency.
Witnesses: n/a
Fees: There is a US$100 license fee. A special license will need to be filled out to apply for the government marriage certificate - this needs to be filled out by the groom only.