Explore the easy steps for online registration, the eligibility criteria for offline registration, and the process to get an original court marriage certificate under the Hindu Marriage Act and Special Marriage Act.
Overview
Getting married is a significant milestone in anyone’s life. It marks the beginning of a new journey with your partner, and you want to ensure that everything is done correctly.
What is a Court Marriage Certificate?
Marriage certificates are legal documents issued by the court that prove two individuals are married legally. Many legal purposes require this document, such as applying for a passport, opening a joint bank account, or applying for a visa. Additionally, you must register your marriage under the Special Marriage Act, of 1954.
Online Registration for a Marriage Certificate
In India, just like many other essential services available online these days, marriage registration can also be done through the Internet. Opting for online registration is increasingly preferred as it saves time and eliminates the hassle of standing in long queues, which is especially beneficial during the era of social distancing. It also reduces the need for multiple in-person meetings with the marriage registrar. Here are the steps to follow:
- Access the official website of your home state government.
- Locate and fill out the marriage registration form available on the website.
- Provide the required personal details of both parties involved in the marriage.
- Submit the filled-out form online.
After form submission, the marriage registrar will schedule a specific date and time for you to appear in person at their office. It is essential to be punctual and bring all the necessary documents mentioned in the article. Additionally, two witnesses from each side should be present at the time of marriage at the marriage registrar’s office.
For marriages under the Hindu Marriage Act, of 1955, the given date and time are typically around 15-30 days after form submission. In the case of the Special Marriage Act, of 1954, it usually takes around 60 days.
Offline Registration for a Marriage Certificate
For Indian citizens, the process of registering a marriage offline involves visiting either the Marriage Registrar Office (MRO) or the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO). Both options offer a straightforward and legal way to obtain a marriage certificate. Let’s explore the details of each method:
Through Marriage Registrar Office (MRO)
Marriage Registrar Offices are governed by government-appointed officials who maintain records of various vital events, including marriages. To register a marriage through this method, applicants need to visit the MRO with the required documents and a duly filled application form. The registrar will verify the documents and process the registration, ultimately issuing the marriage certificate.
The Marriage Registrar’s Office plays a crucial role in legalizing marriages and ensuring that they are officially recognized by the government. This process is important for establishing the legitimacy of the marriage and availing various benefits provided to married couples.
Through Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO)
Sub-Divisional Officers, appointed by the state government, perform various administrative functions, including keeping track of births, deaths, marriages, and divorces. Apart from their administrative duties, SDOs are also authorized to issue marriage certificates.
To register a marriage through the Sub-Divisional Officer, the couple needs to visit the SDO’s office and submit the necessary documents along with the completed application form. The SDO will verify the details and complete the registration process, culminating in the issuance of the marriage certificate.
Under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955
In India, marriages can be registered under two acts: the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, or the Special Marriage Act, 1954. Regardless of religion, these acts are applicable to all Indian citizens. Eligibility for marriage registration is limited to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, or Buddhists. Couples can apply for registration once their marriage is solemnised.
To register a marriage, the couple must visit the office of the sub-registrar who holds jurisdiction over the location where the marriage took place. Alternatively, registration can be done at the sub-registrar’s office where either partner has resided for more than six months. Hindu marriages can be solemnised based on the customs and rituals of either party involved.
Under the Special Marriage Act, 1954
Regardless of their religion, all Indian citizens have the option to register their marriage under the Special Marriage Act, 1954. This registration includes solemnisation by the marriage officer. Couples applying under this act must provide a 30-day notice to the sub-registrar in whose jurisdiction either partner resides.
The sub-registrar displays the notice on the board for 30 days, and if no objections are raised during this period, the marriage is officially registered. A copy of the notice is retained by the jurisdiction’s sub-registrar.
Unlike religious ceremonies, this entire process enables the completion of marriage registration without any religious customs. The Special Marriage Act, 1954 serves as an alternative for those ineligible to register their marriage under the Hindu Marriage Act in India.
Steps to Get an Original Court Marriage Certificate
Step 1: Determine the Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for an original court marriage may vary from one state to another. However, some common eligibility criteria include:
- Both parties should be 18 years or above.
- Both parties should be of sound mind and capable of giving valid consent.
- The parties should not have a living spouse during the marriage.
Step 2: Documents required for Original Court Marriage Certificate
The next step is to obtain the necessary documents required for a court marriage certificate.
- Proof of age (birth certificate, school leaving certificate, etc.)
- Proof of residence (voter ID card, Aadhaar card, etc.)
- Passport size photographs
- According to the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, an affidavit must be signed by both parties to declare that they are not related to one another within the prohibited degree of relationship
- A copy of the divorce decree is required if one or both parties are divorced.
- One or both parties must provide a copy of the death certificate of the deceased spouse if they are widowed.
Step 3: Submit the Application
After gathering all the necessary documents, you must submit an application for a court marriage registration certificate. In order to file an application, either party must have lived in the district where the registrar’s office is located for at least 30 days before applying.
Step 4: Verification of Documents
After you have submitted the application, the documents will be verified by the marriage registrar. This verification process may take a few days to a few weeks, depending on the workload of the office.
Step 5: Fix a Date for the Marriage
Once the documents are verified, the marriage registrar will fix a date for the marriage. Marriages are usually scheduled within one month of the application.
Step 6: Get Married
On the day of the marriage, both parties need to be present before the marriage registrar, along with two witnesses. The marriage ceremony is conducted by the marriage registrar, and both parties need to sign the marriage register. The witnesses also need to sign the register.
Step 7: Obtain the Court Marriage Certificate
After the marriage is solemnized, the court marriage certificate is issued by the marriage registrar. You can collect the certificate from the office of the marriage registrar on a specified date.
How to Get Original Court Marriage Certificate
Step 1: Visit the Website
Visit Vakilsearch website
Step 2: Go to the Marriage Registration Page
Once you are on the Vakilsearch website, navigate to the “Marriage Registration” page.
Step 3: Select Your State
Select the state in which you want to register your marriage. The procedures and requirements for court marriage registration can vary from one state to another, so it is essential to choose the correct state.
Step 4: Fill in the Application Form
After selecting your state, you will be directed to an application form that you need to fill in. Provide accurate information about yourself, your partner, and your witnesses, as this information will be used to create your marriage certificate.
Step 5: Pay the Fees
After you have filled in the application form, you will be directed to a payment page where you can pay the fees for Vakilsearch’s services. Depending on the state you select and the services you need, fees can vary.
Step 6: Submit the Application
Once you have paid the fees, submit your application form. Your application will be reviewed by our experts in Vakilsearch, and any additional information will be contacted by them. (pharmacy Geoff modafinil)
Step 7: Wait for the Original Court Marriage Certificate
You will be assisted by Vakilsearch lawyers in getting a court marriage date and completing the necessary documentation. As soon as the court marriage is solemnized, Vakilsearch will obtain the court marriage certificate for you and deliver it to you.
Conclusion
Getting an original court marriage certificate is a straightforward process, and with the right documents and information, you can obtain it quickly. Remember to check the eligibility criteria and obtain the necessary documents before applying for the certificate. The court marriage certificate is an essential legal document that can be used for various legal purposes, so make sure you keep it safe and secure. Getting a court marriage registration in Vakilsearch is a simple process that can be completed online.
FAQs
What is the total cost of a marriage certificate in India?
Under the Hindu Marriage Act, the marriage certificate costs ₹ 100, whereas under the Special Marriage Act, the fee is ₹ 150. The payment for the marriage certificate should be made to the district cashier.
Can I get a marriage certificate the same day in India?
As per the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955, if both partners are Hindus, including Sikhs, Parsis, and Jains, the marriage and registration can be conducted on the same day. Court marriage can be completed in just two simple steps, all in one day.
