How to Get a Marriage Certificate in Tamil Nadu

Introduction

Getting married is one of the most significant and beautiful milestones in a person’s life, and while you are busy making memories, don’t forget to take care of an essential legal task—obtaining your marriage certificate. Ensuring that your marriage is officially documented is equally important.

A marriage certificate is not just a piece of paper; it’s an official document that validates your union in the eyes of the law. Whether for visa applications, joint bank accounts, or name changes, this certificate comes in handy for several purposes.

In Tamil Nadu, the process to obtain a marriage certificate is straightforward, thanks to the state’s online and offline registration systems. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of obtaining a marriage certificate in Tamil Nadu, the documents you’ll need, eligibility criteria, and more.

What Is a Marriage Certificate?

A marriage certificate is an official document issued by the government, ​​certifying that two people are legally married. It acts as proof of marriage under the laws of India. In Tamil Nadu, marriages can be registered under two acts:

• The Hindu Marriage Act, 1955– Applicable to Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs.
• The Special Marriage Act, 1954– Applicable for inter-religious marriages, civil marriages, or those outside the purview of the Hindu Marriage Act.

For example: If two Hindus marry according to traditional rituals, their marriage falls under the Hindu Marriage Act. On the other hand, if a Hindu marries a Christian, the Special Marriage Act applies.

Why Is a Marriage Certificate Important?

Having a marriage certificate isn’t just a formality; it’s a legal necessity. Here’s why:

• Legal Proof: It acts as evidence of marriage in case of disputes or inheritance claims.
• Visa Applications: Required for spousal visa applications or dependent visa processing.
• Name Changes: Essential for updating a surname post-marriage in legal documents.
• Joint Accounts and Properties: Mandatory for joint bank accounts, insurance policies, or property ownership.
• Divorce Proceedings: Crucial in court for divorce or legal separation cases.

Did you know? 

In 2006, the Supreme Court of India made marriage registration mandatory to prevent child marriages and ensure the rights of women.

Eligibility for Obtaining a Marriage Certificate, Tamil Nadu

To register your marriage in Tamil Nadu, the couple must meet the following criteria:

Age:

• Groom: At least 21 years old.
• Bride: At least 18 years old.

Religion:

• Hindu Marriage Act: Both parties must be Hindus.
• Special Marriage Act: No religious restrictions.

Marital Status:

• Both parties must be unmarried, widowed, or legally divorced before registering.

Residency:

• At least one party must reside in Tamil Nadu.

Consent:

• Both parties must give free and voluntary consent.

Proof of Marriage:

The ceremony must be completed as per religious or civil rites.

Marriage Certificate Documents For Registration in Tamil Nadu 

Ensure you have the following marriage certificate documents ready before initiating the process for a hassle-free process:

1. Identity Proof: Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Driving License or Passport.
2. Age Proof: Birth certificate, school leaving certificate, or passport.
3. Address Proof: Ration card, electricity bill,  utility bill, or Aadhaar card.
4. Marriage Invitation: A copy of the wedding invitation (optional but recommended).
5. Wedding Photos: Photographs of the ceremony (particularly with the couple and witnesses) or a certificate from the priest.
6. Affidavit: Signed Declaration of the date, time, and place of marriage.
7. Witness Documents: ID proofs of at least three witnesses.
8. Passport-sized Photos: Usually 3-4 of each spouse.

Step-by-Step Guide to Registering Your Marriage in Tamil Nadu

Step 1: Choose Your Act

Decide whether your marriage falls under the Hindu Marriage Act or the Special Marriage Act.

Step 2: Visit the Registrar’s Office

Locate the Sub-Registrar office in your jurisdiction. You can also use the Tamil Nadu e-Services platform for online registration.

Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form

Complete the marriage registration form, either online or offline. Ensure all details match your official documents and provide accurate details about both parties and the marriage.

Step 4: Submit the Documents

Provide the required documents mentioned above. Ensure they are self-attested and accurate.

Step 5: Verification by Registrar

The Registrar will verify the submitted documents and may ask for witnesses (usually 3 witnesses for the Special Marriage Act).

Step 6: Pay the Fees

Pay the nominal registration fee as prescribed by the government.

Step 7: Obtain the Marriage Certificate

Upon successful verification, you’ll receive the marriage certificate, either in person or digitally usually within 15-30 days.

Online vs. Offline Marriage Certificate Registration: Which is Better?

Online Registration

• Convenient and time-saving.
• Access the Tamil Nadu Registration Department’s portal for e-registration.
• Upload documents and book an appointment.

Offline Registration

• Suitable for those not comfortable with online procedures.
• Requires a visit to the Sub-Registrar Office.

​Registration Under the Hindu Marriage Act and Special Marriage Act in Tamil Nadu

In Tamil Nadu, marriages can be registered under two primary acts: the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, and the Special Marriage Act, 1954.

• Hindu Marriage Act: 

Applicable when both parties are Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, or Sikhs. Registration can be done at the local Sub-Registrar office within 30 days of marriage. The application requires the presence of both parties, three witnesses, and the submission of necessary documents. 

• Special Marriage Act: 

Suitable for interfaith marriages or when either party is not Hindu. A 30-day notice period is mandatory before registration. The application must be submitted at the Sub-Registrar office, and both parties should be present along with three witnesses.

Processing Time and Validity of the Marriage Certificate

After submission, the marriage certificate is typically issued within 7 working days. The certificate serves as legal proof of marriage and is valid indefinitely. 

How to Verify and Download a Marriage Certificate Online

In Tamil Nadu, marriage certificates can be verified and downloaded online through the Tamil Nadu e-District portal.

1. Verify Certificate:
   
   • Visit the Verify Certificate page.
   • Enter the certificate number and captcha code.
   • Click on “Verify” to check the certificate’s authenticity.
2. Download Certificate:
   
   • Go to the Download Certificate page.
   • Enter the valid certificate number and captcha code.
   • Click on “Download” to obtain a digitally signed copy of the certificate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incomplete Documentation: Double-check your documents to avoid rejections.
2. Missed Deadlines: Register within 90 days of the wedding ceremony to avoid penalties.
3. Spelling Errors: Ensure names and details match across all documents.
4. Witness Availability: Confirm witness availability before visiting the office.

Conclusion

Registering your marriage in Tamil Nadu is an essential step that secures your legal rights and simplifies several life processes. With the state offering both online and offline options, the process is now easier than ever.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can interfaith marriages be registered under the Hindu Marriage Act?
No, interfaith marriages must be registered under the Special Marriage Act.

Q2: Is online marriage registration available in Tamil Nadu?
Yes, you can register online through the Tamil Nadu e-Services portal.

Q3: How long does it take to get a marriage certificate?
The process typically takes 15-30 working days after successful verification.

Q4: Can I apply for a marriage certificate after several years of marriage?
Yes, you can register your marriage even years later with valid proof.

Q5: What are the fees for marriage registration in Tamil Nadu?
The fee ranges from ₹100 to ₹150 depending on the registration method.