FOREIGN NATIONAL COURT MARRIAGE
Foreign national court marriage in India is a legally recognized process that allows an Indian citizen and a foreigner or two foreign nationals to marry under the Special Marriage Act, 1954. This ensures a lawful and hassle-free marriage while complying with Indian legal requirements.
To be eligible, both partners must be of legal marriageable age—18 years for females and 21 years for males—and should provide valid documents, including:
- Passports and visas (for foreign nationals)
- Address proof (such as a utility bill or rental agreement)
- Birth certificates
- Marital status affidavit (confirming single/divorced/widowed status)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the respective embassy (if required)
- Passport-size photographs
The couple must submit a notice of intended marriage to the registrar, followed by a 30-day notice period for objections. After verification, the marriage is solemnized in the presence of a marriage officer and three witnesses, and a legal marriage certificate is issued.
Foreign national court marriage ensures legal security and international validity, making it an ideal option for couples seeking a smooth and lawful marriage process in India.
Documents required
Identity & Age Proof
Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID, ,Driving License, PAN Card, Birth Certificate, 10th or 12th Marksheet, Passport (for DOB proof) (Any one from each category)
Address Proof
Aadhaar Card,
Passport,
Voter ID,
Ration Card,
Utility Bill (Electricity/Water)
(Any one)
Photographs
4 to 6 recent
passport-sized photos
of both parties
Witnesses (2 or 3 Persons)
Witnesses must have
valid ID proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport)
Documents for NRI
Valid Passport, Visa Copy, No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Embassy
Marital Status Proof
Divorce Decree (if divorced), Death Certificate of Spouse (if widow/widower)
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Common questions
What is court marriage?
Court marriage is a legal marriage process conducted in front of a marriage registrar under the Special Marriage Act or respective religious laws. It is legally recognized and does not require religious rituals.
Who can apply for court marriage?
Any Indian citizen or foreign national above 18 years (female) and 21 years (male) can apply for court marriage, provided both individuals consent willingly and meet legal eligibility criteria.
What documents are required for court marriage?
The basic documents include:
- Aadhar Card / Passport / Voter ID (as identity proof)
- Birth Certificate / 10th Certificate (for age proof)
- Address Proof (Electricity Bill, Rent Agreement, etc.)
- Passport-size photographs (4-6 copies)
- Affidavit of Marital Status (Single/Divorced/Widowed)
- Witness ID Proof (Two or three witnesses required)
How long does the court marriage process take?
- Under the Special Marriage Act, it takes 30 days (including notice period).
- For Hindu, Muslim, or Christian marriages, it can be done on the same day if all documents are available.
Can an inter-religion couple apply for court marriage?
Yes, inter-religion couples can marry under the Special Marriage Act, 1954, which allows marriage without religious conversions.
Is parental consent required for court marriage?
No, parental consent is not required if both individuals are legally adults (18+ for females, 21+ for males).
Can foreign nationals marry in India through court marriage?
Yes, foreign nationals can marry an Indian citizen or another foreign national in India by providing a valid passport, visa, and NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective embassy.
What are the additional requirements for court marriage?
Apart from documents, you may need:
- Two or three witnesses
- Marriage attire (Traditional or Formal)
- Garlands for the ceremony
- Marriage declaration affidavit
Is court marriage legally valid across India?
Yes, court marriage is legally recognized nationwide and holds the same legal status as any religious marriage. The marriage certificate issued by the registrar serves as valid proof.
How can I apply for court marriage?
You can apply by:
- Filling a marriage application form with a marriage registrar.
- Submitting required documents along with witnesses.
- Completing verification and oath-taking in front of the registrar.
- Receiving your legally valid marriage certificate after successful registration.