How To Register Your Marriage In Kerala: A Step-by-step Guide Using Akshaya

Marriage is a sacred institution that marks the beginning of a lifelong journey between two individuals. In the state of Kerala, India, registering a marriage is an essential legal process that ensures the rights and responsibilities of both partners are recognized and protected. The Akshaya e-Governance Services, a pioneering initiative by the Government of Kerala, has revolutionized the marriage registration process, making it convenient, transparent, and accessible to all. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps, requirements, and procedures involved in registering a marriage in Kerala using Akshaya, empowering you to embark on this momentous occasion with confidence.

Benefits of Registering Marriage through Akshaya

Registering your marriage through Akshaya offers several advantages:

• Legal Recognition: A registered marriage is legally recognized and provides a solid foundation for the rights and obligations of both spouses.

• Simplified Property Transactions: A marriage certificate facilitates seamless property transactions, enabling joint ownership and inheritance.

• Access to Government Benefits: Registered couples are eligible for various government benefits, including tax breaks, subsidies, and social welfare schemes.

• Legal Protection: In case of separation or divorce, a marriage certificate serves as legal proof of the marital relationship.

• Peace of Mind: Registering your marriage brings peace of mind, knowing that your union is officially recognized and protected by the law.

Eligibility Criteria for Marriage Registration in Kerala

To register a marriage in Kerala through Akshaya, both partners must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Age: Both partners must be at least 18 years of age.

• Sound Mind: Both partners must be of sound mind and capable of giving consent to the marriage.

• Unmarried Status: Both partners must be unmarried at the time of registration.

• No Prohibited Relationships: The partners must not be related to each other in a way that prohibits marriage under the law.

Required Documents for Marriage Registration

To complete the marriage registration process through Akshaya, the following documents are required:

• Proof of Age: Birth certificates, school leaving certificates, or any other valid documents establishing the age of both partners.

• Proof of Identity: Aadhaar cards, passports, or other government-issued identity cards for both partners.

• Proof of Address: Ration cards, utility bills, or any other documents verifying the residential addresses of both partners.

• Passport-Size Photographs: Recent passport-size photographs of both partners.

• Declaration Form: A duly filled and signed declaration form provided by the Akshaya center.

• Witness Statements: Statements from two witnesses who can attest to the marriage ceremony.

Step-by-Step Guide to Marriage Registration through Akshaya

1. Visit an Akshaya Center: Locate the nearest Akshaya center in your area and visit during their operating hours.

2. Obtain the Application Form: Request the marriage registration application form from the Akshaya center.

3. Fill out the Application Form: Carefully fill out the application form with accurate information about both partners, including names, addresses, occupations, and other relevant details.

4. Attach Required Documents: Attach the necessary documents mentioned above along with the completed application form.

5. Pay the Registration Fee: Pay the prescribed registration fee at the Akshaya center.

6. Submit the Application: Submit the completed application form, along with the documents and fee, to the Akshaya center official.

7. Receive Acknowledgment: You will receive an acknowledgment receipt confirming the submission of your application.

8. Marriage Ceremony: Conduct the marriage ceremony as per your cultural and religious traditions.

9. Submit Marriage Certificate: After the ceremony, submit the marriage certificate issued by the marriage officiant to the Akshaya center.

10. Receive Registered Marriage Certificate: Once the verification process is complete, you will receive the registered marriage certificate from the Akshaya center.

Post-Registration Requirements

After registering your marriage through Akshaya, it is essential to:

• Update Documents: Update your official documents, such as Aadhaar card, passport, and PAN card, to reflect your marital status.

• Inform Banks and Financial Institutions: Notify your banks and financial institutions about your marriage to update your joint accounts and beneficiaries.

• Change of Name: If one partner wishes to change their surname after marriage, they must follow the legal procedures for name change.

Takeaways: Ensuring a Secure and Recognized Marital Union

Registering your marriage through Kerala Akshaya is a crucial step in securing the legal and social recognition of your marital union. By following the outlined steps and fulfilling the requirements, you can ensure a seamless and successful marriage registration process. The registered marriage certificate serves as a testament to your commitment and provides a solid foundation for your journey together. Embrace this opportunity to embark on a new chapter in your lives with confidence and celebrate your love in the eyes of the law.

What People Want to Know

1. Can I register my marriage through Akshaya if one partner is from outside Kerala?
Yes, you can register your marriage through Akshaya even if one partner is from outside Kerala. However, you may need to provide additional documents, such as a passport or proof of residence outside Kerala.

2. How long does it take to get a registered marriage certificate after submitting the application?
The processing time for a registered marriage certificate can vary depending on the workload at the Akshaya center and the verification process. Typically, it takes around 10 to 15 working days to receive the certificate.

3. What if I lose my registered marriage certificate?
In case you lose your registered marriage certificate, you can apply for a duplicate certificate at the Akshaya center where you originally registered your marriage. You will need to provide a copy of your identity proof and pay a nominal fee.