How to Apply for Court Marriage in Delhi

India is a diverse and youthful country, and modern couples aspire for a court marriage instead of the traditional wedding. Court marriages are performed as per the Special Marriage Act of 1954, and there are no elaborate rituals or ceremonies. 

Have a look at some important facts, requirements, documents, and method associated with court marriage in Delhi, or other parts of India.

Court Marriage In Delhi Procedure

Court Marriage Requirements

• Age: The bride has to be at least 18 yrs. of age and the groom must be 21 yrs. or older.
• Region: They can belong to any race, region, religion, caste, community, or tribe.
• Unmarried: Both of them should be willing, unmarried, mature, and of sound mind.
• Prohibited relationships: The couple should not be in prohibited relationships category.
• Health: Both of them should be in good health and fit for procreation.

Who Performs a Court Marriage in Delhi? 

Court marriage is a civil ceremony, and it is performed in the presence of a marriage registrar and 2 to 4 witnesses. The couple has to contact the nearest office of Deputy Commissioner, Sub-registrar, or Sub-divisional magistrate to complete the formalities. 

If the marriage is already solemnized under a different Act, the couple can visit the sub-registrar or magistrate office for registering the marriage and receiving the marriage certificate as proof. 

What Documents Are Required for A Court Marriage? 

The following original documents are necessary to apply for a court marriage in Delhi-

• The couple has to submit 4 recent color passport size photographs.
• Residential proof of the couple using documents such as Voter Card, Ration Card, Bank Passbook, Driving License, Passport, Lease Deed, or Rent Deed.
• Date of Birth Proof of the couple using documents such as Municipal Corporation Certificate, X or XII Examination Certificate, Passport, or PAN Card
• 2 or 4 witnesses should also bring ID and Address proof, and 2 passport photos.
• If the couple is divorcees or widowers, then they should also submit divorce decree and widower certificate.

How to Do Court Marriage in Delhi?

1. The couple have to file a joint application at the nearest office of the marriage bureau and a notary attested individual affidavit with proof of age, address, etc.,
2. The marriage registration fee of Rs 100 to Rs 150 should also be paid, and the receipt has to be submitted along with application form.
3. Make sure you submit all the document original and photocopies, photographs, signatures, and witness documents also.
4. After that, the marriage officer releases a month notice of prospective marriage at his office, and also forwards copies to concerned individual parties as well as the marriage officer under whose jurisdiction one of the couples lives.
5. The marriage date, venue, etc., are fixed after one month, and the couple and witnesses have to appear before the officer. If there are any valid objections, the officer resolves them as per the required norms of his office.
6. A brief marriage ceremony is performed with exchange of rings or garlands, etc., in the presence of the officer and witnesses.
7. Everyone present submits their signatures wilfully, and the registrar declares the couple as married.
8. The marriage certificate remains valid and legal in a court of law.

Note: The marrying couple can also take legal support from a practicing advocate who has the regional/state bar council membership.