Steps for Marriage Registration in India

The process for marriage registration is simple and involves the following steps:

1. Eligibility Criteria

To register your marriage in India, both parties must meet the following criteria:

• Both individuals must be of legal age (21 years for men, 18 years for women).
• The marriage must be solemnized according to the personal laws of either party or under the Special Marriage Act.
• Both parties must be mentally sound and capable of understanding the responsibilities of marriage.

2. Documentation Required

The following documents are typically required for marriage registration:

• Identity Proof (Aadhar card, passport, voter ID, etc.)
• Age Proof (Birth certificate, passport, school leaving certificate)
• Address Proof (Utility bills, rental agreements, or passport)
• Photographs (Passport-sized recent photos of the couple)
• Affidavits (Confirming both parties’ unmarried status, age, and mental soundness)
• Witnesses: Two witnesses to sign the marriage registration form.

3. Application Submission

Both parties must submit the marriage registration application at the local marriage registrar office, which can be done either online or offline depending on the city. The application form must be signed by both parties and accompanied by the necessary documents.

4. Marriage Registration Ceremony

Once the application is submitted, the marriage registrar schedules a date for the registration. A simple ceremony may take place in the presence of the registrar and two witnesses. During this, both parties sign the marriage register, and the marriage is legally recognized.

5. Issuance of Marriage Certificate

After the marriage is registered, the registrar issues an official Marriage Certificate. This document serves as legal proof of your marriage and can be used for various purposes, including visa applications, passport processing, and property rights.