Beyonce Knowles and Jay-Z have taken out a marriage licence, prompting rumours that wedding bells may be just around the corner.

Having successfully applied for the licence in Scarsdale, New York, yesterday, the former Destiny’s Child singer and the hip-hop entrepreneur now have 60 days to exchange vows, according to People.

The couple began dating in 2002 but have always refused to talk publicly about their relationship.

Jay-Z - real name Shawn Carter - has previously collaborated with his Queen B on her tracks, Crazy In Love and De-ja Vu.