A marriage certificate is the legal proof of a registered marriage in India. Marriages are registered either under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 (for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and Sikhs) or the Special Marriage Act, 1954 (for inter-faith and civil marriages). Registration is handled by your State Government / Municipal Corporation, usually through the state's e-District or marriage-registration portal. A registered marriage certificate is required for visas, passports, name changes, joint bank accounts, insurance and legal matters.
Official website
State Government / Municipal e-District portals
https://services.india.gov.in
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Find your State/Municipal marriage-registration or e-District portal (linked from the National Services directory).
Register and choose the applicable Act (Hindu Marriage Act or Special Marriage Act).
Fill the application with both spouses' and witnesses' details.
Upload the required documents and photographs.
Book an appointment at the Sub-Registrar / Marriage Officer's office (if required).
Visit with both spouses and witnesses on the appointment date for verification.
Collect or download the digitally-signed marriage certificate once approved.
Official fees
A nominal registration fee applies and varies by state (often ₹100–₹500). Exact fees are shown on your state portal.
Processing time
Under the Hindu Marriage Act, registration can be quick (often the same day/within a few days). Under the Special Marriage Act, a 30-day public notice period usually applies before the certificate is issued.
Validity
A marriage certificate is a permanent legal document and does not expire.
How to apply
Online (state e-District portal) · Offline (Sub-Registrar / Municipal office)
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Following Supreme Court directions, most states have made marriage registration compulsory. Even where it isn't strictly mandatory, a registered certificate is essential for passports, visas, insurance and legal purposes.