What is marriage registration?
Registration records a marriage that has already been performed. It does not create the marriage. A certificate is widely needed for passports, spouse visas, insurance, bank nominations and inheritance.
In Delhi, registration of marriages is compulsory under the Delhi (Compulsory Registration of Marriage) Order, 2014, and marriages are registered at the office of the SDM who acts as Registrar for the area. In Uttar Pradesh and Haryana, separate state rules apply.
Who may need this service
- Couples married with Hindu, Sikh, Jain or Buddhist rites
- Couples married in an Arya Samaj ceremony
- Couples who married years ago and never registered
- Couples who need a certificate urgently for a visa or passport
Legal framework
Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and Sikhs usually register under section 8 of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 read with the applicable state rules. Other marriages may be registered under section 15 of the Special Marriage Act, 1954 if its conditions are met.
Muslim marriages (nikah) and Christian marriages are governed by their own laws; the Delhi Compulsory Registration Order covers the registration of marriages solemnised in Delhi generally, and we advise on the correct procedure case by case.
Eligibility and key conditions
- The marriage has actually been solemnised according to the rites that apply
- Both parties met the legal age at the time of marriage
- Neither party had a living spouse at the time
- Jurisdiction: where the marriage took place or where either party lives, depending on the rules
Documents generally required
- Application form with photographs of both parties
- Age proof and identity proof
- Address proof
- Proof of marriage: wedding photographs, invitation card, and certificate from the temple, gurdwara or Arya Samaj where available
- Affidavits in the prescribed format
- Witness ID and address proof
- Divorce decree or death certificate of former spouse, if applicable
Document requirements may vary depending on the applicable legal route, individual circumstances and the concerned authority.
Procedure
- Identify the law. We confirm whether Hindu Marriage Act or Special Marriage Act registration applies.
- Collect proof. Gather ID, age proof and proof of the ceremony.
- Apply. Apply online to the concerned Registrar and book the appointment.
- Appearance and verification. Both parties and witnesses appear with originals.
- Certificate. The certificate is issued after verification.
Common problems we see
- No proof of the religious ceremony
- Name spellings that differ between Aadhaar and passport
- Late registration long after the wedding
- Marriage performed in another state
How an advocate can help
- Choose the right law and authority
- Prepare affidavits and check documents
- Guide you through appointment and verification
- Handle late-registration and correction issues
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
Is marriage registration compulsory in Delhi?
Is there a notice period for registration?
Do both spouses need to be present?
Can we register a marriage that happened in another state?
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.