Marriage Registration for NRIs and Foreign Nationals in Delhi: A Simple Guide by Legal Light Consulting

Legal Light Consulting (LLC), a trusted law firm in Delhi since 2019, specializes in helping Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and foreign nationals register their marriages under the Special Marriage Act, 1954.

This guide explains the rules and process for marriage registration in Delhi when both the bride and groom are foreign nationals, ensuring a smooth and legal process.

Rules for Marriage Registration (Foreign Nationals)

If both the bride and groom are foreign nationals, you can register your marriage in Delhi under the Special Marriage Act, 1954, by following these rules:

• Residency: Both the bride and groom must have lived in the Delhi district of the Marriage Officer for at least 30 days before applying for registration.

• Presence: Both the bride and groom, along with three witnesses who are permanent residents of Delhi, must be present in person at the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) office to confirm the marriage.

• Marriage Location: The marriage must have taken place in Delhi.

Documents Needed

To register your marriage, you need these documents:

1. Proof of Residence in Delhi (for both bride and groom):

   • Documents like a rent agreement, electricity bill, water bill, or any government-recognized proof showing you’ve lived in Delhi for at least 30 days.

2. Valid Visas:

   • Both bride and groom must have valid visas on the date of registration.

3. Affidavit (notarized on Rs. 10 e-stamp paper):

   • A sworn statement from both bride and groom, verified by:

     • Their country’s embassy in India, or

     • An Executive Magistrate based on their passports (if the embassy does not attest the affidavit).

   • The affidavit should include:

     • Citizenship and nationality.

     • Date of birth and confirmation of legal age (groom: 21 or older, bride: 18 or older).

     • Marriage date and place.

     • Marital status (unmarried, divorced, or no other living spouse).

     • No pressure or influence was used for the marriage.

     • All documents are genuine.

4. Identity Proof (for both bride and groom):

   • Passport or any government-recognized ID.

5. Date of Birth Proof (for both):

   • Passport, birth certificate, or other official document.

6. Witness Documents:

   • Three witnesses who are permanent Delhi residents must provide:

     • Identity proof (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Passport, etc.).

     • Residence proof (Aadhaar Card, rent agreement, electricity bill, etc.).

7. Other Documents (if needed):

   • Divorce decree if either is divorced.

   • Death certificate if either is a widow/widower.

   • Embassy certificate showing marital status and nationality.

8. Photographs:

   • One passport-sized colored photo (5cm x 4.5cm) of both bride and groom, showing full face, no sunglasses or hats, with a plain white or off-white background.

Note:

• Submit self-attested copies of documents. Originals may be checked at the SDM office.

• For online applications, upload scanned affidavits and photos. Send original affidavits to the SDM office by hand, speed post, or registered post with the application number.

How to Register Your Marriage

1. Find the Right Office:

   • Apply at the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) office in the Delhi district where you’ve lived for at least 30 days.

2. Submit Application:

   • Online: Use the Delhi government’s e-district portal (https://edistrict.delhigovt.nic.in/). Create an account, fill the form, upload documents, and pay the fee.

   • Offline: Get the form from the SDM office, fill it, attach documents, and submit with the fee.

3. Verification:

   • A 30-day public notice is posted at the SDM office and sent to your addresses. Any objections are resolved during this period.

4. Appointment Day:

   • The bride, groom, and three witnesses must go to the SDM office with ID and residence proofs.

   • Witnesses confirm the marriage took place.

5. Get the Certificate:

   • After verification, the marriage certificate is issued, usually on the same day or within a few days.

   • Download it from the e-district portal within 21 days.

Why Register Your Marriage?

• Legal Proof: The certificate is valid for visas, passports, or international use.

• Protects Rights: Ensures rights to property, inheritance, or support.

• Government Benefits: Access schemes for married couples.

• Global Recognition: Especially important for NRIs and foreign nationals.

Why Choose Legal Light Consulting?

Legal Light Consulting specializes in NRI and foreigner marriage registration:

• Expert Lawyers: Guides you through complex requirements, like embassy-verified affidavits.

• Fast Service: Offers same-day registration in some cases.

• Clear Pricing: No hidden fees.

• NRI and Foreigner Expertise: Handles special documents like visas and embassy certificates.

• Full Support: From paperwork to certificate issuance.

• Contact: Visit canada.legallightconsulting.com or call/WhatsApp for help.

Important Tips

• Live in Delhi for at least 30 days before applying.

• Ensure all documents, especially visas and affidavits, are correct to avoid delays.

• Confirm that three witnesses have valid Delhi residence proof.

• Contact Legal Light Consulting for expert help with NRI and foreigner marriages.

Conclusion

Marriage registration for NRIs and foreign nationals in Delhi is simple with the right support. Legal Light Consulting ensures your marriage is legally recognized, handling all legal needs for a hassle-free process. Contact LLC for expert help with NRI and foreigner court marriages in Delhi.

Disclaimer: This guide is for information only. Consult a lawyer for advice specific to your case.