7 Marriage Registration Mistakes That Cause Rejection or Delay

Last reviewed: 27 September 2026. Laws and procedures change; check current rules before acting.

Most delays in registration are caused by a handful of avoidable problems. Check these before you apply.

1. Names spelt differently. Aadhaar, school certificate and passport must match, or an affidavit and supporting proof are needed. Fix this first; it also affects visas later.
2. No proof of the ceremony. For a religious marriage, keep photographs, the invitation card and any certificate from the venue. A registration certificate cannot substitute for the ceremony itself.
3. Wrong office. After Delhi's 2026 reorganisation, many addresses moved to a different sub-division. Check the SDM office list.
4. Residence proof that does not match. The address on your proof must be the address in the application. See the residence guide.
5. An earlier marriage not properly dissolved. Bring the final divorce decree and, if relevant, proof that no appeal is pending. A foreign divorce may need assessment.
6. Witnesses without valid ID. Each witness needs identity and address proof and must attend.
7. Not checking the certificate. Check every detail before leaving the office. Corrections later take longer. See certificate correction.

Also avoid

• Agents promising same-day registration.
• Letting a Special Marriage Act notice lapse after three months.
• Using a certificate abroad without apostille where required.

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Disclaimer: This page gives general information about the law and procedure as understood at the time of writing. It is not legal advice for your situation. Requirements may vary depending on the parties' circumstances, applicable law, jurisdiction and the concerned authority, and rules and forms change from time to time. Please consult an advocate before acting.