Marriage Registration

A marriage certificate is a legal document that confirms that the two people are married. Marriages in India are registered under two Acts: the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955 or the Special Marriage Act of 1954. For the safety of women, the Supreme Court declared it essential to register all weddings under the Marriage Act, regardless of the religious ceremony performed. Based on the religion(s) of the couple, they must choose to register under the particular Marriage Act.

Marriage Registration Process Under the Marriage Act

On any working day, you can apply for marriage registration at the Sub-Divisional Magistrate office in whose jurisdiction the husband or wife resides. Fill up the application form, which must be signed by both husband and wife. On the day of the application, all the documents are verified, and a date for the appointment is set, which is communicated. The to-be husband and to-be wife, and the Gazetted officer, must appear before the ADM on the specified date. On the same day, the marriage certificate is issued.

Following Are The Documents Required For The Marriage Registration Process

  • A completed application form signed by both husband and wife
  • Address Proof, such as Ration Card/Passport/Voter ID or Driving License
  • Date of Birth proof of both parties.
  • One marriage photograph
  • Two passport-sized photographs
  • Marriage Affidavits from the husband and wife in the proper format.
  • Aadhaar Card
  • Marriage invitation card

All the documents listed above must be self-attested.

Appointment 

In the event of the Hindu Marriage Act, you will receive an appointment within 15 days of completing the online registration. However, at the time of the Special Marriage Act, it might take up to 60 days.

Witness

Any person who has witnessed the couple’s wedding can be a witness. They must have a PAN card, along with any other proof of residence.

Tatkal Marriage Certificate

In April 2014, the Delhi Government’s Revenue Department created a ‘tatkal’ service, providing a single-day authorization of the marriage in which the process of registration will start on a priority basis. This service, which began on April 22, 2014, allows individuals to register their marriages and get a certificate within 24 hours.

Time Acquire to Get the Certificate

According to the rules, you will get the marriage certificate within 3 working days. Therefore, in reality, it could take anywhere between 10 to 15 days.