A Step by Step Guide for Marriage Registration in India

A marriage certificate is a crucial legal document that officially recognizes a marital union. In India, marriages are registered under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, or the Special Marriage Act, 1954. The Supreme Court of India mandated marriage registration in 2006. This discussion provides a step-by-step guide for both online and offline marriage registration processes in India.

Online Marriage Registration

Online marriage registration is a convenient option, saving time and effort. Here’s how to register a marriage online:

1. Visit the Official Website: Open the official government website of your home state.

2. Find the Registration Form: Locate the online marriage registration form on the site.

3. Fill in Personal Details: Enter the required personal details of both parties.

4. Submit the Form: Submit the completed form.

5. Attend Registrar’s Office: The marriage registrar will schedule an appointment. Both parties must attend with all required documents and two witnesses from each side.

The appointment for a marriage under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, is typically 15-30 days after submission. For the Special Marriage Act, 1954, it’s approximately 60 days.

Offline Marriage Registration

Offline registration involves visiting the sub-registrar’s office. Here’s how it works:

Under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955:

• Applicable to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists.

• Visit the sub-registrar’s office where the marriage was solemnized or where either partner has resided for over six months.

• The marriage must be solemnized according to the customs and rituals of either party.

Under the Special Marriage Act, 1954:

• Applicable to all citizens, regardless of religion.

• A 30-day notice must be given to the sub-registrar where either partner resides.

• The registrar posts a notice for 30 days, and if no objections are received, the marriage is registered.

• The marriage is solemnized by a marriage officer.

Where to Register a Marriage

Marriage registration can be done both online and offline.

• Online: Visit the official website of the state where the marriage was solemnized or where either partner resides. Fill out the online form, and then attend a meeting with the registrar for document verification.

• Offline: Visit the sub-registrar’s office where the marriage was solemnized. Fill out the application manually, and after 30 days with no objections, the marriage will be registered.

Required Documents for Marriage Registration

The required documents may vary slightly by state, but generally include:

• Signed application form by both parties.

• Proof of birth (matriculation certificate, birth certificate, passport). The groom must be 21, and the bride must be 18.

• Residential proof (Election Voter ID, PAN Card, Aadhar Card, Ration Card, electricity bill).

• Certificate from the religious institution if the marriage was solemnized there.

• Payment receipt (Rs 100 for Hindu Marriage Act, Rs 150 for Special Marriage Act).

• Two passport-size photos of both parties and a marriage photo if already solemnized.

• Wedding invitation card if the marriage is solemnized.

• Affirmation that the parties are not within prohibited relationships.

• Attested copy of the divorce decree if either party is a divorcee.

• Death certificate of the spouse if either party is a widow or widower.

• Affidavit stating the place, date, time, marital status, and nationality of both parties.

• Two witnesses from each side with valid PAN Cards and address proof.

Hindu Marriage Registration – Requirements & Precautions

• Bride’s minimum age: 18 years.

• Groom’s minimum age: 21 years.

• Online application with prescribed fee.

• Wedding invitation card.

• Marriage ceremony photograph.

• Residential proof of either spouse.

• Copies of SSC certificates or passport for DOB proof.

• Three witnesses to sign the form and register.

• Verify all details in Form A, especially names.

• Mention the wife’s name before and after marriage.

• Check the certificate for discrepancies and rectify them immediately.

• Register at the sub-registrar’s office where the marriage took place or where either spouse has resided for six months.

• The registrar may attend the ceremony if requested.

Marriage Certificate

A marriage certificate is an official document attesting to the union of two people. It is required for legal recognition and various purposes. Key points include:

• Mandatory for all marriages in India.

• Issued under the Hindu Marriage Act or the Special Marriage Act.

• Groom must be over 21, and the bride must be over 18.

• Essential for legal purposes and to uphold women’s rights.

Procedure for Obtaining a Marriage Certificate

1. Eligibility Verification: Ensure both parties meet the age criteria.

2. Document Collection: Gather all required documents.

3. Application Submission: Complete the application form.

4. Document Submission: Submit the form with all required documents.

5. Verification and Processing: The registrar’s office verifies the documents.

6. Fee Payment: Pay the prescribed fees.

7. Marriage Registration: The marriage is registered.

8. Certificate Issuance: The certificate is issued in physical or electronic format.

Key Takeaways

Marriage registration in India is a crucial legal process that can be done both online and offline. The process involves submitting the required documents, meeting the eligibility criteria, and attending the registrar’s office. Whether you choose online or offline registration, it is essential to follow the steps carefully and ensure all details are accurate. Understanding the requirements under the Hindu Marriage Act and the Special Marriage Act is vital for a smooth registration process.