Marriage Certificate

An affidavit of the couple is needed stating the place of marriage that occurred, including the details of the marriage date, marital status, and nationality. Passport-size photo and photograph of a marriage invitation card, if any. Residency proof of the Applicant. Birth certificate of the groom (Age Proof)

What is the cost of marriage registration in India? Under the Hindu Marriage Act, the cost of marriage registration is Rs 100 as application fee and Rs 150 under the Special Marriage Act. However, along with affidavits it costs around Rs 400-500 for submitting an application for marriage registration.

What is a Marriage Certificate?

A marriage certificate is a legal document that records the marriage between two individuals. It's issued by a government authority and includes important details like the names of the couple, the date of the marriage, and the place where the marriage was solemnized. Think of it as the official stamp that says, "Yes, these two are married."

Legal Validation

A marriage certificate is your ticket to being recognized as legally married in the eyes of the law. It’s crucial for changing your marital status on legal documents and for any legal proceedings.

Proof of Relationship

This document serves as undeniable proof of your relationship. Whether you're applying for a loan, buying a house, or dealing with immigration paperwork, your marriage certificate is your go-to document.

Social and Financial Benefits

Being married often comes with social and financial perks like tax benefits, spousal insurance coverage, and inheritance rights. Your marriage certificate is key to unlocking these benefits.

Prerequisites

Before you can get your hands on that certificate, there are a few things you need to have in place.

Age Requirements

Both parties usually need to be of a certain age, typically 18 or older. If you're younger, you might need parental consent or a court order.

Documentation

You’ll need to provide identification documents like birth certificates, passports, and proof of residency. Make sure you have all your paperwork in order.

Application Process

Once you’ve got the prerequisites sorted, it’s time to get down to business.

Filing the Application

Head to your local registry office or its online portal to fill out the application form. Some places might allow you to book an appointment in advance to make things smoother.

Fees and Costs

There’s usually a fee involved in obtaining your marriage certificate. Costs can vary, so it’s a good idea to check with your local authority.

Waiting Period

After you’ve submitted your application, there might be a waiting period before you can collect your certificate. This can range from a few days to a few weeks.

Differences in Marriage Certificate Requirements by Country

The process and requirements for obtaining a marriage certificate can vary greatly depending on where you are. Let’s take a look at a few examples.

United States

In the U.S., each state has its own set of rules. Some states require a blood test, while others do not. Be sure to check the specific requirements for your state.