Documents required for marriage registration

A marriage certificate is needed for a passport name change, visas, bank nominations, insurance claims and more. Here is what both partners and the witnesses should bring to the registrar.

Checklist · Last checked 2 November 2026

The short answer

Both partners need age proof, address proof, passport-size photos and usually an affidavit. Bring a wedding photo and the invitation card if the marriage has already happened, and witnesses with their own ID. The exact list depends on your state and the Act you register under.

Which Act applies?

Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and Sikhs who have already married usually register under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955. Couples of different religions, or anyone who prefers a civil marriage, use the Special Marriage Act, 1954, which needs a 30-day notice before the marriage is registered. Some states also have their own compulsory registration rules.

Checklist

For both partners

Marriage proof (if already married)

Witnesses

If it applies to you

How to register, step by step

  1. Find your state's marriage registration portal or visit the office of the Sub-Registrar or Marriage Officer for your area.
  2. Fill the application online or on paper and book a date.
  3. Pay the fee, which is small and set by the state.
  4. On the day, both partners and the witnesses appear in person with originals.
  5. Collect the certificate. Many states let you download it online.

Mistakes that slow it down

  • Names or dates of birth spelled differently across documents.
  • Witnesses forgetting their own ID.
  • Missing the 30-day notice period under the Special Marriage Act.
  • Not checking your state's extra requirements, such as local residence proof.

Where to get each document

  • Affidavit: prepared on stamp paper and signed before a notary. Many registrars give a format.
  • Birth certificate or 10th certificate: from the municipal body or your school board.
  • Photos: recent passport-size photos with a plain background, the same for every form.
  • Application form: from your state's registration portal or the registrar's office.

After you get the certificate

  • If you change your surname, update it on your passport, PAN, Aadhaar and bank account. See documents required for a passport.
  • Update nominees on bank accounts, insurance policies and provident fund.
  • Keep a few certified copies; embassies and some offices ask for one they can keep.

Questions people ask

Is marriage registration compulsory?

The Supreme Court has said marriages should be registered, and many states have made it compulsory. Even where it is not, a certificate saves trouble later.

How long does it take?

Under the Hindu Marriage Act it can be done within days in many states. Under the Special Marriage Act there is a 30-day notice period first.

Can parents be witnesses?

In most states, yes, as long as they are adults with valid ID. Check with your registrar.

Can we register long after the wedding?

Yes. Late registration is allowed, sometimes with a small late fee or an extra affidavit.

Rules, fees and forms vary by state. Check your state's registration portal or the local Sub-Registrar's office. Rules change; this page is general information, not legal advice. Kaagaz is not a government service.