Marriage Registration in India – What You Need to Know in 2025

Getting your marriage registered is a must, not a choice. It turns a personal ceremony into a legal union that the government recognises. Without a registration, you miss out on inheritance rights, tax benefits, and many other legal protections.

Since the 1955 Hindu Marriage Act and the Special Marriage Act, Indian law has required couples to file a notice, wait for objections, and finally receive a marriage certificate. The rules are the same across states, but the paperwork and timelines can look different.

Anyone who is at least 18 for women and 21 for men, not already married, and not within prohibited relationships can register. You don’t need a religious ceremony – the legal process works for all faiths, civil marriages, and even same‑sex unions where state law permits.

Key Documents Required

Gather these before you step into the office or log onto the portal. Missing a single item can delay the whole thing.

• Proof of age – birth certificate, school certificate, or passport.
• Proof of residence – electricity bill, ration card, or rent agreement.
• Affidavit stating that there is no legal impediment to the marriage.
• Two passport‑size photographs of each spouse.
• Notice of Intended Marriage form (signed by both partners).
• If applying under the Special Marriage Act, an additional declaration of solemnisation by an authorized officer.

Step‑by‑Step Registration Process

1. Fill the notice. Both partners must submit the Notice of Intended Marriage at the local Registrar’s office. The office will display the notice for 30 days to allow objections.

2. Wait for the objection period. If no one objects, you can move to the next step. If there is an objection, you’ll need to resolve it legally, which may take extra time.

3. Schedule the solemnisation. After the waiting period, book a date with the Registrar or an authorized officiant. The ceremony can be simple – just you, the registrar, and two witnesses.

4. Sign and receive the certificate. On the day, all three parties sign the marriage register. The registrar then issues the official marriage certificate, usually within a week.

If you prefer an online route, many states now offer e‑registration through their official portals. Upload scanned copies of the required documents, pay the fee digitally, and schedule a video solemnisation if the state allows it. The online method cuts down travel and speeds up processing, but you still need the same documents.

Fees vary by state, typically ranging from ₹300 to ₹1,200. Some states waive the fee for senior citizens or for marriages under a specific scheme.

Common mistakes include forgetting the 30‑day notice period, using expired ID proof, and not having two witnesses present at the solemnisation. Double‑check each step, and you’ll avoid endless trips back to the registrar.

FAQs:
• Can I register after the ceremony? Yes, but you must still file the notice first.
• Do I need a lawyer? Not usually, unless there’s an objection.
• What if my partner lives abroad? You can still register; just bring a passport and a No‑Objection Certificate from the foreign embassy.

Registering your marriage gives you legal security and peace of mind. Follow the checklist, respect the timelines, and you’ll have a valid marriage certificate without any hassle.