Marriage Documents in India: What You Need and How to Get Them

Planning a wedding can feel like a marathon, especially when paperwork piles up. Most couples wonder which forms are truly required and which are just optional. Below is a straight‑forward checklist of the documents you’ll need for a legal marriage in India, plus practical tips to collect them quickly.

Core Documents for Every Marriage

1. Age Proof – A valid passport, birth certificate, or SSLC (10th grade) mark sheet proves you are above the legal age (21 for men, 18 for women). If you use a school certificate, make sure the issuing authority’s stamp is clear.

2. Residence Proof – Recent utility bills, Aadhar card, or a voter ID that shows your current address. Some states accept a landlord’s affidavit if you live in rented accommodation.

3. Affidavit of Marriage – A notarized statement declaring that you are single, divorced, or widowed, and that there is no legal impediment to the marriage. The affidavit should include the names of both parties, parents’ names, and a declaration of marital status.

4. Passport‑Size Photographs – Typically four to six recent photographs of each partner. Keep them in both color and black‑and‑white versions, as some offices still request the latter.

5. Application Form – The marriage registration form (called ‘Form No. 7’ in most states). You can download it from the local Sub‑Registrar office’s website or collect it in person.

Additional Papers You Might Need

Divorce or Widower Documents – If either partner was previously married, you’ll need a divorce decree, death certificate of the former spouse, and the original marriage certificate of the previous marriage.

Conversion Certificate – For inter‑faith marriages where one partner converts, a certificate from a recognized religious body is often required.

Residency Certificate from the Sub‑Registrar – Some states ask for a certificate confirming both partners reside within the jurisdiction of the registering office.

Parental Consent (if applicable) – Minors (under 21 for men, 18 for women) need written consent from parents or a court order permitting the marriage.

Collecting these documents ahead of time saves you from multiple visits to the Sub‑Registrar office. Keep both physical copies and scanned PDFs in a dedicated folder on your phone; you’ll appreciate the backup if a document gets misplaced.

Step‑by‑Step Registration Process

1. Gather the checklist – Use the list above to verify you have every required paper.

2. Visit the local Sub‑Registrar – Bring originals and photocopies. The officer will verify each document and may ask for additional proof if something looks unclear.

3. Sign the marriage register – Both partners, two witnesses (over 18), and the registrar sign the official register.

4. Pay the fee – Fees vary by state but usually range from ₹500 to ₹2000. Keep the receipt; it’s needed for the certificate.

5. Collect the marriage certificate – You’ll receive a stamped certificate within a few days. Some states also offer a digital version via their e‑services portal.

Remember to ask for a duplicate certificate if you need one for passport or visa applications later. Duplicates cost a small extra fee and can be requested online in most states.

Having the right paperwork on hand not only speeds up registration but also protects you from future legal hassles, like disputes over property or inheritance. So, start early, double‑check each document, and enjoy the celebration without paperwork stress.