Smiling Indian couple in traditional wedding attire promoting court marriage in Delhi complete guide

Court Marriage Delhi – Everything Couples Need to Know

Court Marriage Delhi?

Court marriage in Delhi (under the Special Marriage Act, 1954) offers a fast, secular and legally recognised route to marriage. It is ideal for inter-faith or inter-caste couples, cost-conscious couples, or those who prefer a minimal ceremony with immediate legal documentation.

  • Universal legal validity: Certificate accepted by government departments, banks and embassies.
  • Cost-effective: Official fees are typically a fraction of traditional wedding costs.
  • Equal & secular: No conversion or religious rites are required by law.
  • Transparent process: Notice period and documentation make the procedure predictable.

Eligibility Requirements

Both partners must meet the legal criteria below to proceed with court marriage in Delhi:

  • Minimum age: Groom ≥ 21 years; Bride ≥ 18 years.
  • Marital status: Unmarried, divorced or widowed (with proof).
  • Mental capacity: Both partners must be able to give informed consent.
  • Relationship: Not within prohibited degrees of blood relation unless custom permits.

Document Checklist (Originals + 1 set self-attested)

ApplicantMandatory DocumentsPurpose
Bride & Groom Aadhaar / Passport / Voter ID; Birth certificate or 10th mark sheet; 4 passport photos each Identity, address & age proof
Both Affidavit of marital status, nationality & DOB Legal declaration
Divorced / Widowed Decree absolute or spouse's death certificate Proof of freedom to marry
Foreign National Passport, valid visa, NOC from embassy Immigration & embassy compliance
Witnesses (3) Any government photo ID + PAN (3 persons) Verification during solemnization

Pro tip: Arrange witnesses who can spare ~2 hours on the solemnization day — they will sign multiple registers.

Step-by-Step Procedure for Court Marriage in Delhi

  1. File the Notice (Form IV): Visit the SDM office in the district where at least one partner has lived for 30 days; submit Form IV + documents + fee (approx. ₹100–₹150).
  2. 30-Day Public Notice: Your details are displayed on the SDM noticeboard for objections; copies sent to other relevant districts if needed.
  3. Handle Objections (if any): Any valid objection (e.g., incorrect age) is considered by the Marriage Officer; most couples face none.
  4. Day 31 — Solemnization: Return with 3 witnesses; sign declarations before the Marriage Officer; exchange garlands or rings if you wish.
  5. Receive Certificate: The officer records the marriage (Form V) and issues the court marriage certificate — keep certified copies for passports, banks, etc.

Fees & Timelines (2025)

ItemApprox. Cost (₹)Timeline
Notice filing100 – 150Day 1
Solemnization500 – 1,000Day 31+
Certified copies10 – 20 eachSame day

Tip: Many Delhi SDM offices accept online appointment bookings — print your appointment slip to reduce wait times.

Common FAQs

Can parents block our court marriage?

Legally, consenting adults do not need parental approval. Objections succeed only on statutory grounds (age, existing spouse, mental incapacity).

Can we skip the 30-day notice if we're in a hurry?

No — the 30-day public notice is mandatory under the Special Marriage Act. Some couples perform an Arya Samaj ceremony and later register, but legal registration still requires appropriate paperwork.

Are medical tests required?

Delhi does not currently mandate premarital medical tests for court marriage, though voluntary tests are encouraged for transparency.

Conclusion

Choosing court marriage in Delhi is a practical, legal, and affordable way to formalize a relationship. With the correct documents, an understanding of the 30-day notice, and the SDM's steps, couples can obtain a certificate that is recognized across India and abroad.