How to Apply for a Marriage Certificate

Disclaimer:

The sample Application form provided below is only for illustrative and reference purposes and has been taken from the Chandigarh Government Marriage Certificate Application format to help applicants understand the general nature of information required.

Each State/UT in India prescribes its own marriage registration form, eligibility conditions, documentation requirements, fee structures, competent authority, and procedure.

What Is a Marriage Certificate

A Marriage Certificate is an official document issued by the State/UT Government certifying that a marriage has been legally registered.

It serves as legal proof of marriage for:

• Passport and visa Applications
• Change of name after marriage
• Spouse benefits, insurance, pensions
• Bank, property, and succession matters
• Court and Government records

Marriage registration is handled by the Marriage Registrar / Sub-Registrar / SDM, depending on the state.

Key Points to Know

• Registration is mandatory for legal proof, regardless of religion.
• Procedure and forms differ by state/UT.
• Some states offer fully online appointments and document uploads; others require
• Both spouses must usually be present at registration, along with witnesses.

How to Apply for a Marriage Certificate

Online Method

Step 1

Visit your State Marriage Registration / e-District portal.

Step 2

Register/log in as a citizen.

Step 3

Choose the Marriage Registration / Marriage Certificate service.

Step 4

Fill out the application form and upload documents.

Step 5

Book appointment.

Step 6

Pay the prescribed fee online.

Step 7

Visit Registrar office on the scheduled date for verification.

Step 8

Certificate issued physically or available for download.

Offline Method

Step 1

Visit the Marriage Registrar / Sub-Registrar / SDM office.

Step 2

Collect the state-specific marriage registration form.

Step 3

Submit the form with documents and witnesses.

Step 4

Pay the applicable fee.

Step 5

Certificate issued after verification and record entry.

Common Documents Required

(Exact Requirements vary by state.)

• Identity proof of both spouses
• Address proof
• Proof of marriage (photographs, invitation card, certificate by priest/authority if applicable)
• Date of birth proof
• Passport-size photographs
• Witnesses

State-Wise Overview

FAQs - Marriage Certificate

1. Is marriage registration compulsory?

Yes. Registration is essential for obtaining a legally valid marriage certificate.

2. Can we apply online only?

Online application is common, but physical appearance before the Registrar is usually required.

3. How many witnesses are needed?

Usually two or three adult witnesses, depending on state rules.

4. Is there a time limit after marriage?

Some states prescribe timelines; delayed registration may attract an additional fee.

5. Can interstate marriages be registered?

Yes, subject to residence or jurisdiction rules of the concerned Registrar office.

6. Can I download the marriage certificate online?

Many states allow digital download after approval.