Getting married in India involves a lot of documentation and legal procedures. One of the most important documents you will need is a marriage certificate, which serves as legal proof of your marital status. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get a marriage certificate in India:
Step 1: Solemnize your marriage according to religious/civil procedures
The first step is to ensure your marriage is solemnized and registered according to the religious or civil procedures applicable to you. For Hindu marriages, this involves rituals like ganesh puja, varmala, saptapadi etc. in the presence of a pandit. For civil marriages, you need to provide notice of intended marriage to the Marriage Registrar and then solemnize it in their presence. Christians, Muslims, Parsis, Jews also have their own customs and rituals for marriage. Ensure all traditions and ceremonies are correctly followed on your wedding day and you obtain the certificate from priest/pandit/qazi.
Step 2: Apply for marriage registration
Once married, you need to register your marriage to get a marriage certificate. The process differs slightly across states but broadly involves:
- Filling an application form with personal details of bride and groom. You may need to attach proofs like age, address, ID, photos.
- Providing witnesses or oath from someone who attended the wedding.
- Submitting the religious marriage certificate issued by priest/pandit etc.
- Paying the registration fees which is usually between Rs. 100-500.
- Providing a valid address proof where you want the certificate sent.
Submit this application at the office of Regional Marriage Registrar or Municipal Corporation. You can also apply online. Ensure all documents are appropriately attested.
Step 3: Attend appointment at Marriage Registrar’s office
Once you apply, you will be given a date to visit the Registrar’s office with your spouse and witnesses. The Registrar will examine your application and entered details will be verified. Biometric information like photographs and fingerprints are also taken during this stage. You must carry original documents for verification. If everything is in order, your marriage will be registered.
Step 4: Collect marriage certificate
The final marriage certificate will be issued within 1-2 months of registering the marriage. You can collect the signed certificate from the Registrar’s office on the allotted date. Check all details like names, age, parental details, wedding date are accurately entered before receiving the document. The certificate is issued as a printed document on security paper and stamped with registrar office seal.
Some tips when applying for marriage registration:
- Apply within 60 days of getting married, there is a late fee after 2 months.
- Get atleast 2-3 certified photocopies of original marriage certificate.
- Verify spellings, age, parental names are correct in all documents.
- Bribe is illegal, do not pay any money beyond official fees.
- Make joint applications if marrying an NRI/foreign citizen.
- Contact office beforehand to find out required documents and fees.
- Appear for appointments together with spouse, delays if one person is absent.
- Marriage certificate is valid across India, no need to register more than once.
Some frequently asked questions:
- When is a marriage certificate required in India?
A marriage certificate serves as important legal proof of marriage for procedures like applying for a passport, buying life insurance, filing joint taxes, visa for spouse etc.
- What documents are needed for marriage registration?
You need identity and age proof, marriage ceremony certificate, photos, witness/priest oath, address proof and fees. Additional affidavits, conversion certificates may be required for inter-religion marriages.
- How much does a marriage certificate cost in India?
The fees is nominal, around Rs. 100-200 for basic registration. Add Rs.100-300 for fancy certificates or commemorative prints. Late registration charges apply after 2 months.
- Is marriage certificate mandatory for passport?
Yes, marriage certificate is required as proof of name change for married applicants getting a passport reissued in married name.
- How long is the marriage registration process?
It takes 1-2 months from submitting application to getting the final signed certificate. Registration process takes 30-60 minutes on your appointed date.
In summary, getting a marriage certificate in India involves solemnizing the wedding as per religious/civil rites, registering the marriage at the Registrar’s office by providing the right documents and fees, attending an appointment for verification and finally collecting the marriage certificate when issued. Ensure all details are accurately entered and verified. Carry certified copies as marriage certificate serves as a key legal proof of marital status.
