How to register a marriage in India?

Step 1: Choose the Type of Marriage Registration

Marriage Act: Decide under which act you want to register your marriage:

Hindu Marriage Act: If both partners are Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, or Sikhs.
Special Marriage Act: If the partners are of different religions or none of the above.

Step 2: Visit the Marriage Registrar's Office

Find the Office: Locate the nearest Marriage Registrar's Office. This is usually at the district or sub-district level.

Step 3: Collect the Necessary Forms

Get the Forms: Visit the office and ask for the marriage registration forms. Alternatively, you can often download these forms from the official website of your state's registration department.

Step 4: Fill Out the Forms

Fill in Details: Complete the forms with your personal details like names, addresses, dates of birth, and details of your parents. Sign the Forms: Both partners must sign the forms.

Step 5: Gather Required Documents

Proof of Age: Birth certificate, school leaving certificate, or passport.

Address Proof: Aadhar card, voter ID, passport, or utility bill.

Passport-Sized Photos: Typically, three photos of both partners.

Witnesses: You need three witnesses who will also sign the forms. Witnesses should have valid ID proof.

Step 6: Submit the Forms and Documents

Go to the Office: Both partners, along with the witnesses, should visit the Marriage Registrar's Office.

Submit Everything: Submit the filled forms and all the required documents.

Pay the Fee: There is a nominal fee for registration, which you need to pay at the office.

Step 7: Verification Process

Wait for Verification: The Registrar will verify all the documents. Sometimes this process might take a few days.

Publication of Notice (Special Marriage Act): If registering under the Special Marriage Act, a notice will be put up for 30 days to allow for any objections.

Step 8: Marriage Certificate

Receive Certificate: Once verification is complete, you will receive your marriage certificate.

Sign the Register: Both partners and the witnesses will sign the marriage register in the presence of the Registrar.

Step 9: Keep Copies

Keep Safe: Keep multiple copies of the marriage certificate for future use.

FAQs

FAQ 1: What is the procedure to register a marriage in India?

Answer: Submit a marriage application form, along with proof of age, address, and photos to the local marriage registrar. Witnesses and a marriage certificate are also required. Check The Special Marriage Act, 1954.

FAQ 2: Is it mandatory to register a marriage in India?

Answer: Yes, for legal recognition and proof of marriage, it is mandatory to register your marriage.

References

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Written by Arshita Anand

Arshita is a final year student at Chanakya National Law University, currently pursuing B.B.A. LL.B (Corporate Law Hons.). She is enthusiastic about Corporate Law, Taxation and Data Privacy, and has an entrepreneurial mindset