- Published on
How to register a marriage in India?
- Authors

- Name
- Arshita Anand
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.