What is marriage certificate?
There is no separate application for “a certificate” on its own. You get one by either marrying under the Special Marriage Act or registering a marriage that already took place. After that, you can obtain certified copies if the original is lost.
Certificates are needed for passports, spouse visas, insurance, pension and bank nominations and property matters. For use abroad, many countries require an apostille from the Ministry of External Affairs.
Who may need this service
- Couples who need a certificate for a visa or passport
- Couples who lost their certificate
- Couples whose certificate has an error
Legal framework
Section 13 of the Special Marriage Act makes its certificate conclusive evidence of the marriage. Certificates under the Hindu Marriage Act and state rules are evidence of registration.
Eligibility and key conditions
- The marriage must have been solemnised or registered with the competent authority
Documents generally required
- Details of the original registration (number and date), if known
- ID of both spouses
- Application for a certified copy or correction
- Supporting documents for any correction
Document requirements may vary depending on the applicable legal route, individual circumstances and the concerned authority.
Procedure
- Identify the authority. Where the marriage was solemnised or registered.
- Apply. For registration, a copy, or a correction.
- Verification. The authority checks the records.
- Issue. Certificate or certified copy is issued.
Common problems we see
- Spelling mismatches with passports
- Certificates from Arya Samaj or religious bodies mistaken for government certificates
- Old manual records
How an advocate can help
- Advise the right application
- Prepare correction affidavits
- Guide on apostille
Where we assist
We assist couples across Delhi and Delhi NCR, including Noida, Greater Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, Faridabad. The authority you approach depends on where you live and, for registration, where the marriage took place.
Related services
Legal guides
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a marriage certificate in Delhi?
Can I download my marriage certificate?
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.