Planning a Court Marriage in India? Here’s the Complete Process

Court marriage in India is no longer just an alternative—it has become a preferred legal route for couples who value clarity, consent, and simplicity. Whether you’re planning an inter-religion marriage, an inter-caste union, or simply want a legally secure marriage without elaborate rituals, court marriage provides a lawful and dignified option.

This guide explains the complete court marriage process in India, step by step, with legal clarity, document checklists, state realities, and FAQs, so you can proceed confidently.

What Is Court Marriage in India? (Legal Definition)

Court marriage is a civil marriage solemnized before a Marriage Registrar under Indian law, without religious rituals.

It is primarily governed by:

• The Special Marriage Act, 1954
  (Sections 5–14)

This Act applies to:

• Same-religion couples

• Inter-religion couples

• Inter-caste marriages

Who Is Legally Eligible for Court Marriage?

Under Indian law:

• Groom must be 21 years or above

• Bride must be 18 years or above

• Both parties must give free and valid consent

• Neither partner should have a living spouse

• Both should be mentally fit to consent

• Parties should not fall under prohibited relationships
  (unless permitted by custom)

Step-by-Step Court Marriage Procedure in India

Step 1: Decide the Jurisdiction (Very Important)

You must apply at the Marriage Registrar’s office of:

• The district where either partner has lived for at least 30 days

Proof of residence is mandatory (rent agreement, utility bill, etc.)

Step 2: Submit Notice of Intended Marriage (Section 5)

• A written notice is submitted under Section 5 of the Special Marriage Act

• Contains personal details of both partners

• Signed by both parties

The Registrar then:

• Enters the notice in the Marriage Notice Book

• Displays it publicly (Section 6)

Step 3: Mandatory 30-Day Waiting Period

• A 30-day notice period is compulsory

• During this time, objections can be raised under Section 7

Reality Check:

• Objections are rare

• Only valid on legal grounds (age, marital status, consent)

• Family disagreement alone is not a valid legal objection

Step 4: Document Verification (Checklist)

Documents Required (Both Partners)

Age Proof (any one):

• Birth certificate

• 10th marksheet

• Passport

Address Proof (any one):

• Aadhaar Card

• Voter ID

• Passport

• Rent agreement + utility bill

Other Documents:

• Passport-size photographs (usually 4 each)

• Identity proof

• Affidavit (marital status, nationality, consent)

If previously married:

• Divorce decree / death certificate of spouse

Step 5: Witness Arrangement (Section 11)

• Three witnesses are required

  Witnesses must be:

• • Adults

  • Carry valid ID proof

• Can be parents, relatives, or friends

Step 6: Marriage Solemnization & Registration (Section 12–13)

• Both partners and witnesses appear before Registrar

• Declaration is signed

• Marriage is solemnized

• Marriage Certificate issued

This certificate is legally valid across India and internationally.

Court Marriage Timeline in India

Total time: ~30–35 days

Court Marriage Fees (State-Wise Reality)

Government fees vary slightly:

• Typically ₹100–₹500

• Delhi, Maharashtra, Punjab: similar range

• Additional cost only if:

  • Lawyer hired

  • Extra affidavits required

Expensive “packages” are not mandatory.

Court Marriage Under Special Act vs Hindu Marriage Act

Do You Really Need a Lawyer?

Lawyer is NOT mandatory if:

• Documents are clear

• No objections expected

• Both parties available

Lawyer may help if:

• Inter-religion complications

• Address proof issues

• Family pressure or objections

Common Myths About Court Marriage

Court marriage is secret
It is public, legal, and official

Parents cannot attend
Parents can be witnesses

Court marriage has no respect
It is legally superior to rituals

FAQs 

Q1. Can court marriage be done in one day?
No. The 30-day notice period is mandatory.

Q2. Is court marriage valid abroad?
Yes. Marriage certificate is internationally accepted.

Q3. Can parents stop a court marriage?
No, if both partners are adults and consenting.

Q4. Can we have a religious ceremony after court marriage?
Yes. Court marriage does not restrict celebrations.

Court Marriage & Matrimony: The Practical Reality

Many couples:

• Meet via matrimony platforms

• Choose court marriage for legal security

• Later plan family ceremonies or receptions

Legal marriage + social acceptance often go hand in hand.

Final Thoughts

Court marriage in India is not about avoiding tradition—it is about starting marriage with legal certainty, equality, and clarity.

When done correctly, it is:

• Lawful

• Respectful

• Stress-free

Marriage begins with commitment.
Court marriage simply ensures that commitment is legally protected.