Introduction
Court marriage is a legal process that allows two individuals to marry under the Special Marriage Act, 1954. Unlike traditional weddings, court marriages are conducted in a civil manner, ensuring legal recognition of the union. If you are planning a court marriage in Delhi, understanding the required documents is essential for a smooth process. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on the court marriage documents required in Delhi and other relevant details.
What is Court Marriage?
Court marriage is a legally recognized marriage conducted before a marriage registrar without any religious customs. It is applicable to people of different religions, castes, and nationalities. The entire procedure is governed by the Special Marriage Act, 1954 and ensures legal security for the couple.
Court Marriage Eligibility Criteria in Delhi
Before proceeding with the documentation, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Age Requirement: The groom must be at least 21 years old, and the bride must be 18 years old.
- Consent: Both parties must willingly agree to the marriage.
- Marital Status: Neither party should have a living spouse at the time of marriage.
- Mental Fitness: Both individuals should be mentally sound to give valid consent.
- Prohibited Relationships: The couple should not be related under the prohibited degree of relationships as per the Hindu Marriage Act, unless their customs allow it.
Court Marriage Documents Required in Delhi
To apply for a court marriage in Delhi, you need the following documents:
1. Identity Proof
- Aadhar Card
- Passport
- PAN Card
- Voter ID
- Driving License
2. Age Proof
- Birth Certificate
- 10th Marksheet
- Passport
3. Address Proof (Any one of the following)
- Aadhar Card
- Voter ID
- Electricity Bill
- Rent Agreement
- Bank Passbook with Address
4. Passport-Size Photographs
- 6 passport-size photographs of both bride and groom
5. Witness Documents
- Three witnesses are required, each with identity proof (Aadhar Card, Voter ID, or Passport)
6. Divorce Decree (If Applicable)
- If either party was previously married, a divorce decree is required.
7. Death Certificate (If Applicable)
- In case of a widow/widower, a death certificate of the deceased spouse is needed.
8. No Objection Certificate (For Foreign Nationals)
- Foreigners must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their respective embassies.
Step-by-Step Procedure for Court Marriage in Delhi
Step 1: Notice of Intended Marriage
- The couple must file a notice of intended marriage at the Sub-Divisional Magistrate’s (SDM) office in Delhi.
- The notice is published, and a 30-day waiting period is given for objections (if any).
Step 2: Document Verification
- All submitted documents will be verified by the marriage registrar.
- The verification process includes checking the age, identity, and residence proof.
Step 3: Marriage Solemnization
- After 30 days, the couple must appear before the marriage officer with three witnesses.
- The marriage is solemnized, and the couple signs the marriage certificate.
Step 4: Marriage Certificate Issuance
- After the completion of the process, the official court marriage certificate is issued.
Benefits of Court Marriage in Delhi
- Legally recognized marriage with a valid certificate.
- Cost-effective compared to traditional weddings.
- Simpler process with minimal legal formalities.
- Ensures legal rights of both partners.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does the court marriage process take in Delhi?
The entire process takes around 30-45 days, including the 30-day notice period.
2. Can we register a marriage online in Delhi?
You can apply for court marriage online through the official Delhi government portal, but physical presence is required for verification and solemnization.
3. Do we need parental consent for court marriage?
No, parental consent is not required if both individuals meet the age criteria.
4. How much does court marriage cost in Delhi?
The government fees for court marriage in Delhi range from Rs. 500 to Rs. 1,500, excluding advocate charges if hired.
5. What happens if someone objects to the court marriage?
If an objection is raised, the marriage officer will verify its validity. If found invalid, the marriage will proceed as planned.
6. Can interfaith couples apply for court marriage in Delhi?
Yes, interfaith couples can marry under the Special Marriage Act, 1954, without religious conversion.
7. Is the court marriage certificate valid across India?
Yes, the certificate issued is legally valid across all Indian states and internationally.
8. Can a foreigner marry an Indian citizen through court marriage?
Yes, foreign nationals can marry Indian citizens through court marriage, provided they submit an NOC from their respective embassy.
9. Can we perform a court marriage in Delhi without a witness?
No, at least three witnesses are mandatory for the court marriage process.
10. Where can I apply for court marriage in Delhi?
You can apply at the Sub-Divisional Magistrate’s office in your district or visit www.CourtMarriage.Net for assistance.
