Introduction
A court marriage in Delhi is a legal and straightforward way for couples to register their marriage under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, or the Special Marriage Act, 1954. To ensure a hassle-free process, couples must submit the required documents to the Marriage Registrar.
This guide provides:
✔ A detailed list of documents required for court marriage in Delhi
✔ Eligibility criteria and document verification process
✔ Step-by-step court marriage procedure in Delhi
✔ Government fees and timelines for marriage registration
✔ Common reasons for document rejection & how to avoid them
By following this guide, you can ensure a smooth and legally valid court marriage in Delhi.
Why Are Documents Important for Court Marriage in Delhi?
The Delhi Marriage Registrar requires valid identity, age, and address proofs to prevent fraudulent marriages. Submitting complete and correct documents ensures:
✔ Legally recognized marriage under Indian law
✔ Quick approval without unnecessary delays
✔ Avoidance of legal objections from authorities
✔ Eligibility for a marriage certificate, which is essential for visa applications, joint accounts, and legal claims
Let’s explore the documents required for court marriage in Delhi in detail.
Eligibility Criteria for Court Marriage in Delhi
Before applying, both partners must meet the following eligibility criteria:
✅ Minimum Age:
- Groom must be at least 21 years old
- Bride must be at least 18 years old
✅ Marital Status:
- Both partners must be single, divorced, or widowed
- If previously married, a divorce decree or death certificate is required
✅ Mental Fitness:
- Both individuals should be of sound mind and capable of giving valid consent
✅ Prohibited Relationship:
- The couple should not be closely related by blood under Hindu Marriage Law
Now, let’s check the full list of documents required for court marriage in Delhi.
List of Documents Required for Court Marriage in Delhi
1. Proof of Age (Any One)
- Birth Certificate (Issued by Municipal Corporation)
- 10th Class Marksheet (with Date of Birth)
- Passport
- PAN Card (with Date of Birth)
📌 Tip: The birth certificate is the most widely accepted proof of age. Ensure that the date matches other documents.
2. Proof of Identity (Any One)
- Aadhaar Card
- Voter ID Card
- Passport
- Driving License
📌 Tip: The ID proof should clearly display the full name and photograph of the applicant.
3. Proof of Address (Any One)
- Ration Card
- Electricity Bill (in applicant’s name or parents’ name)
- Rent Agreement
- Aadhaar Card
- Passport
- Voter ID
📌 Tip: If the address on Aadhaar does not match the current residence, provide an additional utility bill or rental agreement.
4. Passport-Size Photographs
- 6 to 8 recent passport-size photos of both partners
- Must have a clear background and be recent (not older than 6 months)
5. Marital Status Affidavit
- Single Status Affidavit (if never married)
- Divorce Decree (if divorced)
- Death Certificate of Spouse (if widowed)
📌 Tip: The affidavit must be notarized and signed by both partners.
6. Witness Documents
Each couple needs three witnesses, and they must provide:
- Aadhaar Card / Passport / Voter ID
- Address Proof
- Passport-size photographs
📌 Tip: Witnesses must be above 18 years of age and mentally sound.
7. Special Cases (If Applicable)
- Conversion Certificate (if either partner converted to another religion)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) (for foreign nationals)
Step-by-Step Court Marriage Process in Delhi
Step 1: Document Verification & Application Filing
- Collect and verify all required documents
- Visit the Marriage Registrar’s Office in Delhi
- Submit the court marriage application form along with affidavits and witness details
Step 2: Issuance of Notice (Special Marriage Act Only)
- If applying under the Special Marriage Act, 1954, the Registrar issues a 30-day public notice
- If no objections are raised, the marriage is solemnized
Step 3: Marriage Solemnization & Witness Signatures
- Both partners appear before the Marriage Officer
- The marriage is conducted in front of three witnesses
- The couple signs the marriage register
Step 4: Issuance of Marriage Certificate
- After the ceremony, the couple receives a legally valid marriage certificate
- The certificate is essential for legal, financial, and immigration purposes
Common Reasons for Document Rejection & How to Avoid Them
🔴 Incorrect or Mismatched Details
✔ Ensure that names, birth dates, and addresses match across all documents
🔴 Incomplete Application Form
✔ Fill in all fields correctly and attach all required documents
🔴 Improper Witness Identification
✔ Choose eligible witnesses with valid ID and address proof
🔴 Expired or Invalid Documents
✔ Ensure all ID proofs and certificates are up-to-date
Government Fees for Court Marriage in Delhi
| Marriage Type | Government Fee (₹) |
|---|---|
| Hindu Marriage Act (Same-Day Registration) | ₹500 – ₹1,500 |
| Special Marriage Act (30-Day Notice) | ₹2,000 – ₹3,000 |
📌 Additional Costs: Lawyer fees, affidavit charges, and document notarization fees may range from ₹5,000 – ₹20,000, depending on complexity.
