Court Marriage in Delhi Under Special Marriage Act, 1954 – A Simple Guide

If you are planning to get married in Delhi and you and your partner follow different religions, the Special Marriage Act, 1954 is the law under which your marriage can be legally registered.

This act is also used when foreign nationals or NRIs (Non-Resident Indians) wish to get married in Delhi. Here’s a simple explanation of the rules and process — and how Legal Light Consulting can assist you in this journey.

Who Can Register a Marriage Under the Special Marriage Act, 1954?

You can register under this law if:

• The groom is 21 years or older, and the bride is 18 years or older at the time of marriage.

• The marriage is between two people of different religions.

• At least one person is a citizen of India (this rule is not required if both are foreign nationals).

• The marriage took place within the territorial limits of Delhi (NCT).

• Neither person has another living spouse at the time of registration.

• Both people are mentally fit to give consent and are not suffering from serious mental disorders.

• The couple is not closely related by blood, unless their customs allow it.

• The couple has been living together as husband and wife.

Special Rules for Foreign Nationals

If both the bride and groom are foreign nationals, they can still register their marriage in Delhi, but they need to provide some extra documents:

• Proof that they have been living in Delhi (same address) for at least 30 days before applying.

• Valid visa for both at the time of registration.

• An affidavit confirming their identity and marital status. This affidavit should be attested by either:

  • The Embassy of their country in India, or

  • An Executive Magistrate in India (if the embassy refuses to attest).

Other Requirements

• The couple must have lived in the district in Delhi where they apply for marriage registration for at least 30 days.

• Both the bride and groom must be present in person on the day of registration.

• Three witnesses who are permanent residents of Delhi must also be present on the day of the appointment. They must bring their ID proof and confirm that the marriage took place.

Need Legal Help? Contact Legal Light Consulting

Getting a court marriage or registering an NRI marriage can sometimes be confusing or stressful, especially with all the documents and legal steps involved.

That’s where Legal Light Consulting (LLC Lawyer) comes in.

We are experts in handling:

• Court marriages in Delhi

• Inter-religion marriages

• NRI and foreign national marriages in India

Our legal team ensures that all paperwork is correct, all steps are followed as per law, and your marriage is registered without delay or issues.

Final Words

The Special Marriage Act, 1954 makes it possible for couples from different religions or nationalities to legally marry in India. If you meet the conditions, you can register your marriage in Delhi with proper documents and witnesses.

For stress-free and professional legal support in court marriages and NRI marriages, contact Legal Light Consulting today.