For the NRI partner
- Valid Indian passport (and OCI card, if a foreign citizen of Indian origin).
- Visa or residence permit of the country of residence.
- Single-status or no-impediment certificate, or a declaration, as the concerned office asks. This is often obtained from the Indian mission or the local authority abroad.
- Divorce decree or death certificate of a former spouse, if applicable, with proof the decree is final.
- Proof of address in India, if relying on Indian residence.
For both partners
- Age and identity proof.
- Residence proof showing 30 days in the district (for Special Marriage Act marriages).
- Photographs and affidavits.
- Three witnesses with identity proof.
Document requirements may vary depending on the applicable legal route, individual circumstances and the concerned authority.
Attestation and apostille
Documents issued abroad may need to be apostilled in the issuing country (if it is a Hague Apostille member) or attested by the Indian mission. Documents in another language usually need a certified translation.
Foreign divorce decrees
If an earlier marriage was dissolved by a foreign court, its recognition in India depends on section 13 of the Code of Civil Procedure and the Supreme Court's ruling in Y. Narasimha Rao v. Y. Venkata Lakshmi (1991). Check this before you remarry.
Related pages
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a single-status certificate from the Indian embassy?
Is an OCI card holder treated as an NRI?
Do Indian documents need apostille?
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.