How to Apply for Marriage Certificate Online in India

Getting a marriage certificate is one of the most important legal steps after your wedding. In India, marriage registration is now available online in most states, making the process faster and more convenient. This guide explains everything you need to know — from documents to the step-by-step process.

What is a Marriage Certificate?

A marriage certificate is an official government document that legally proves your marriage has been registered under Indian law. It is issued by the Sub-Registrar of the area where the marriage took place or where either spouse resides.

In India, marriages are registered under one of two laws:

• Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 — for Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, and Jains
• Special Marriage Act, 1954 — for inter-faith marriages, court marriages, or anyone who prefers a civil ceremony

Both acts allow online application in most states.

Why is a Marriage Certificate Important?

A marriage certificate is not just a formality. You will need it for:

• Name change after marriage (in passport, Aadhaar, PAN, bank accounts)
• Passport application — required as proof of marriage
• Visa applications — especially spouse/dependent visas for abroad
• Joint property purchase or home loan applications
• Insurance and pension — to add spouse as nominee
• Legal protection — proof in case of disputes or claims
• Government schemes — many welfare schemes require marriage proof

Note: While marriage registration is not yet compulsory by central law, the Supreme Court of India has strongly recommended it, and many states have made it mandatory.

Documents Required for Marriage Certificate

Keep these documents ready before starting your application:

For Both Husband and Wife

Additional Documents

Tip: Requirements vary slightly by state. Always check your state's official portal for the exact list.

How to Apply for Marriage Certificate Online — Step by Step

The process is similar across most states. Here is the general flow:

Step 1: Visit Your State's Official Portal

Go to your state government's marriage registration or e-District portal. Some common ones:

• Delhi: edistrict.delhigovt.nic.in
• Maharashtra: registration.mahagov.in
• Karnataka: kaveri.karnataka.gov.in
• Uttar Pradesh: igrsup.gov.in
• Tamil Nadu: tnesevai.tn.gov.in
• Telangana: registration.telangana.gov.in

You can also search on india.gov.in for your state's link.

Step 2: Register and Create an Account

• Click on "Marriage Registration" or "Apply for Marriage Certificate"
• Create a new account using your mobile number and email
• Verify through OTP

Step 3: Fill the Application Form

Enter the following details:

• Husband's and wife's full name, date of birth, and address
• Date and place of marriage
• Type of marriage (Hindu Marriage Act or Special Marriage Act)
• Witness details (name, address, Aadhaar number)
• Priest/officiant details (if applicable)

Step 4: Upload Documents

Upload scanned copies of all required documents:

• ID proof and address proof of both spouses
• Age proof of both spouses
• Joint photograph and individual passport photos
• Witness ID proofs
• Marriage invitation card or ceremony photos

File format: Usually PDF or JPEG, under 200 KB to 1 MB per file (varies by state).

Step 5: Pay the Fees

Pay the registration fee online through net banking, UPI, or debit/credit card.

Note: Late registration (after 1 year of marriage in some states) may attract a penalty of ₹5 to ₹50 per day.

Step 6: Book an Appointment

After successful submission, book an appointment at the Sub-Registrar's office. Both husband and wife, along with the witnesses, must appear in person on the scheduled date.

Step 7: Visit the Sub-Registrar Office

On the appointment day:

• Both spouses must be present with original documents
• 2 to 3 witnesses with their original ID proofs must accompany you
• The Sub-Registrar will verify all documents
• Signatures and photographs are taken

Step 8: Receive Your Marriage Certificate

After verification, the marriage certificate is issued. In many states, you can download the digitally signed certificate from the same portal within 7–15 working days.

Some states also issue the physical certificate on the spot or by post.

Hindu Marriage Act vs Special Marriage Act

Understanding the difference helps you choose the right registration path.

Key Points

• Under the Hindu Marriage Act, you first perform the marriage ceremony and then register it. There is no mandatory waiting period.
• Under the Special Marriage Act, you must give 30 days' notice to the Sub-Registrar. During this period, anyone can raise an objection. After 30 days, the marriage is solemnised at the registrar's office.
• If both spouses are Hindu (including Sikh, Jain, Buddhist), they can choose either act for registration.

State-Wise Variations

While the basic process is similar, some states have specific differences:

• Delhi: Fully online application through e-District portal. Both parties must appear at SDM office.
• Maharashtra: Registration done through IGR portal. Both online and offline options available.
• Karnataka: Kaveri Online portal handles registration. Marriage must be registered within 30 days of the ceremony.
• Kerala: Registration is mandatory within 30 days. Can be done at the local panchayat or municipality.
• Tamil Nadu: Online application through e-Sevai. Certificate issued within 7–10 days.
• Uttar Pradesh: IGRS UP portal. Stamp duty of ₹10 is applicable.

Tips for a Smooth Application

1. Apply early — Don't wait months after marriage. Some states have deadlines.
2. Keep witness details ready — Witnesses must be present in person at the registrar.
3. Match your name — Ensure your name is exactly the same across all documents (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.).
4. Carry originals — The Sub-Registrar will check original documents.
5. Check state portal — Each state has slightly different requirements. Always verify on the official website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is marriage registration compulsory in India?

The Supreme Court has recommended mandatory registration, and many states have made it compulsory. Even where it is not strictly mandatory, it is highly recommended because the certificate serves as legal proof of marriage.

2. Can I register my marriage online from a different state?

Generally, you must register in the state where the marriage was performed or where either spouse currently resides. Most state portals only accept applications from residents of that state.

3. How long does it take to get the marriage certificate?

After the Sub-Registrar visit, the certificate is usually issued within 7 to 15 working days. In some states, it is available for download on the same day or within 2-3 days.

4. What if I lost my marriage certificate?

You can apply for a duplicate marriage certificate through the same state portal or by visiting the Sub-Registrar's office. A small fee (usually ₹50–₹200) is charged.

5. Can NRIs register their marriage in India?

Yes. NRIs can register their marriage in India if the marriage was performed in India. They need to appear in person or, in some states, authorize someone through a power of attorney. Some Indian consulates abroad also facilitate marriage registration.

6. Is a marriage certificate valid across all states in India?

Yes. A marriage certificate issued by any state government is valid across India and is accepted by all central and state government departments.

7. What is the penalty for late registration?

Penalties vary by state. In Delhi, a late fee of ₹2 per day applies after 60 days. In Maharashtra, a penalty may apply after 90 days. Check your state portal for exact timelines and fees.

Summary

Applying for a marriage certificate online in India is a straightforward process. Visit your state's official portal, fill the form, upload documents, pay the fee, and visit the Sub-Registrar with your spouse and witnesses. Whether you married under the Hindu Marriage Act or the Special Marriage Act, getting your marriage registered is essential for legal protection and accessing various government services.

Start your application today on your state's official marriage registration portal.