Personal, Family & Injury
Marriage Registration
Registering a marriage under the Hindu Marriage Act or the Special Marriage Act, and the documents involved.
DLP's chamber: No. 548, A Block, High Court, Lucknow
What the law says
A marriage already solemnised under the Hindu Marriage Act can be registered under Section 8 of that Act and the State's rules; in Uttar Pradesh, the Uttar Pradesh Marriage Registration Rules, 2017 apply. A marriage between persons of any religion can also be solemnised and registered under the Special Marriage Act, 1954, which requires a notice to the Marriage Officer and a notice period before solemnisation. The Supreme Court in Seema v. Ashwani Kumar (2006) directed that marriages be registered. A marriage certificate is commonly needed for passports, visas, bank and insurance records.
Consultation
Speak to the chamber.
Leave your name, number and a line about the matter. A member of the chamber will call or message you back during working hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which law should we register under?
If the marriage has already taken place under Hindu rites, it is registered under the Hindu Marriage Act and the State rules. Couples of different religions, or who prefer a civil marriage, use the Special Marriage Act.
What documents are usually needed?
Proof of age and identity of both parties, address proof, photographs, proof of the marriage ceremony where already solemnised (such as an invitation card or photographs), and witnesses with identity proof. Check the current list with the registrar.
Can a marriage be registered years later?
Yes, a marriage can be registered after it was solemnised, with proof that it took place. Late registration may involve additional steps under the State rules.
Does registration make a marriage valid?
Registration is evidence of the marriage. Validity depends on the conditions of the personal law or the Special Marriage Act being met.