Legal & Statutory Framework for Court Marriage in India
In India, court marriage is primarily governed by the Special Marriage Act, 1954 (SMA), providing a secular, universal mechanism for couples of any religion, nationality, or caste to solemnize and register their marriage directly before an authorized Marriage Officer. Alternatively, couples who have already solemnized religious ceremonies (Hindu, Sikh, Jain, Buddhist) may register under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 (HMA) or compulsory state marriage registration acts.
State-by-State Court Marriage Fee & Process Matrix (2026)
While the Special Marriage Act is Central legislation, marriage portal procedures, registrar appointment slots, and statutory stamping fees are administered by State Governments:
| State / UT | Official Portal | Statutory Govt Fee | Notice Period (SMA) | Tatkal Mode |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi (NCR) | e-District Delhi | ₹100 (HMA) / ₹150 (SMA) | 30 Days Mandatory | Available (₹10,000 govt fee, 24-hr HMA) |
| Maharashtra | IGR Maharashtra | ₹150 + Stamping | 30 Days Mandatory | Priority Slot Booking |
| Karnataka | Kaveri 2.0 Portal | ₹120 - ₹250 | 30 Days Mandatory | Online Slot Scheduling |
| Uttar Pradesh | IGRSUP Portal | ₹100 (Within 30d) / ₹200 | 30 Days Mandatory | Base Online Submission |
| Tamil Nadu | TNREGINET Portal | ₹150 + Registration Fees | 30 Days Mandatory | Digital Token System |
Comprehensive Document Checklist
To avoid registrar objections, ensure complete documentation before filing Notice of Intended Marriage:
- Age Proof (Both Parties): 10th Class Certificate, Birth Certificate, or Valid Passport (Male: 21+ yrs, Female: 18+ yrs).
- Residential Proof: Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Utility Bill, or Registered Rent Agreement proving at least 30 days residence in the registrar's district.
- Photographs: 6 passport-size photographs of each party with clear white background.
- Witness Requirements: Exactly 3 witnesses with original PAN Cards, Aadhaar Cards, and address verification.
- Marital Status Affidavits: Sworn affidavit declaring bachelorhood, widowhood, or certified divorce decree if previously married.
30-Day Notice Period & Objection Adjudication
Under Section 6 of the Special Marriage Act, a copy of the notice is affixed in a conspicuous place in the office of the Marriage Officer. Any person may raise a legal objection within 30 days strictly on grounds specified in Section 4 (such as pre-existing living spouse, unsound mind, or prohibited degrees of relationship). Objections cannot be entertained on caste or parental disapproval grounds.
Tatkal Marriage Registration: How It Works
For couples who have already solemnized religious rituals under the Hindu Marriage Act and require immediate certification for visa applications or passport updates, several states (notably Delhi) offer Tatkal Marriage Registration enabling certification within 24 hours upon physical document verification.
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