Key points
- In Kerala, marriage registration is mandatory for all marriages solemnized under the Special Marriage Act, 1954, the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, the Muslim Personal Law (Shariat) Application Act, 1937, and the Christian Marriage Act, 1872.
- The marriage can be registered at the office of the Marriage Registrar in the district where either of the parties resides.
- Both parties will be required to make a declaration in front of the Marriage Registrar affirming the truthfulness of the information provided in the application.
Getting married is a significant milestone in one’s life, and obtaining a marriage certificate is an essential step in formalizing the union. In Kerala, the process of acquiring a marriage certificate is straightforward and can be completed with proper preparation and understanding of the required documents and procedures. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the necessary information on how to get a marriage certificate in Kerala.
Understanding Marriage Registration in Kerala
In Kerala, marriage registration is mandatory for all marriages solemnized under the Special Marriage Act, 1954, the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, the Muslim Personal Law (Shariat) Application Act, 1937, and the Christian Marriage Act, 1872. Registration of marriages helps maintain an official record of the union and ensures legal recognition of the marriage.
Documents Required for Marriage Registration in Kerala
To register a marriage in Kerala, the following documents are required:
1. Application Form: A prescribed application form (Form No. 1) is available at the office of the Marriage Registrar or can be downloaded from the official website of the Kerala government.
2. Proof of Identity: Both parties must provide valid photo identification documents such as Aadhaar card, PAN card, driving license, or passport.
3. Proof of Address: Both parties must provide proof of residence in the form of a ration card, utility bills, or a rent agreement.
4. Proof of Age: Both parties must submit birth certificates or other valid documents as proof of age.
5. Passport-Size Photographs: Two passport-size photographs of both parties are required.
6. Affidavit of Celibacy: Both parties must submit an affidavit stating that they are not currently married to any other person.
7. Consent of Parents or Guardians: If either party is below the age of 21, the consent of their parents or guardians is required.
8. Witness Statements: Two witnesses who were present at the marriage ceremony must provide their statements.
Procedure for Marriage Registration in Kerala
1. Select the Marriage Registrar: The marriage can be registered at the office of the Marriage Registrar in the district where either of the parties resides.
2. Submit the Application: The completed application form along with all the required documents must be submitted to the Marriage Registrar‘s office.
3. Verification of Documents: The Marriage Registrar will verify the authenticity and validity of the submitted documents.
4. Declaration by the Parties: Both parties will be required to make a declaration in front of the Marriage Registrar affirming the truthfulness of the information provided in the application.
5. Registration of Marriage: Upon satisfaction with the submitted documents and declarations, the Marriage Registrar will register the marriage and issue a marriage certificate.
Fees for Marriage Registration in Kerala
The fee for marriage registration in Kerala is nominal and varies depending on the type of marriage. The fees are as follows:
- For marriages solemnized under the Special Marriage Act, 1954: Rs. 100
- For marriages solemnized under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955: Rs. 50
- For marriages solemnized under the Muslim Personal Law (Shariat) Application Act, 1937: Rs. 25
- For marriages solemnized under the Christian Marriage Act, 1872: Rs. 25
Validity of Marriage Certificate in Kerala
A marriage certificate issued in Kerala is valid throughout India. It serves as legal proof of the marriage and is required for various purposes such as obtaining a passport, applying for a visa, claiming inheritance rights, and filing for divorce.
Renewal of Marriage Certificate in Kerala
Marriage certificates in Kerala do not require renewal. Once issued, they remain valid indefinitely. However, in case of loss or damage, a duplicate marriage certificate can be obtained by submitting an application to the Marriage Registrar‘s office.
Online Application for Marriage Registration in Kerala
The Government of Kerala has introduced an online portal for marriage registration. This facility allows couples to register their marriage online without having to visit the Marriage Registrar’s office. The process involves uploading the required documents and making the payment online. Once the application is processed and approved, the marriage certificate can be downloaded from the portal.
What People Want to Know
Q: Can I register my marriage in Kerala if I am not a resident of the state?
A: Yes, you can register your marriage in Kerala even if you are not a resident of the state. However, you must provide proof of residence in the form of a ration card, utility bills, or a rent agreement.
Q: What is the procedure for obtaining a duplicate marriage certificate in Kerala?
A: To obtain a duplicate marriage certificate, you must submit an application to the Marriage Registrar’s office along with a copy of the FIR (First Information Report) filed for the loss or damage of the original certificate. You will also need to pay a nominal fee for the duplicate certificate.
Q: How long does it take to get a marriage certificate in Kerala?
A: The processing time for marriage registration in Kerala varies depending on the workload at the Marriage Registrar’s office. Typically, it takes around 15 to 30 days to receive the marriage certificate after submitting the application.
