How to Do Court Marriage in India — Easy 7-Step Process
📅 May 2026⏱ 8 min read✍️ Editorial Team
Court marriage in India sounds complex but is actually a simple 7-step process under the Special Marriage Act, 1954. This guide breaks each step down so any couple — Hindu, Muslim, Christian, inter-religion — can do it confidently in 2026.
Court Marriage in India — The 7-Step Easy Process
Court marriage in India is governed by the Special Marriage Act, 1954. Whether you're in Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, or any city, the process follows these 7 steps. It works the same nationwide.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Ensure both partners meet:
Boy 21+, Girl 18+
Of sound mind
No existing spouse
Not within prohibited degree of relationship
Free consent (no coercion)
If yes, you're good to proceed.
Step 2: Choose the Correct SDM Office
File at the SDM/Marriage Officer Office where at least one of you has lived 30+ days. Each city has multiple SDM jurisdictions. In Delhi alone, there are 33 SDM offices. In Mumbai, the Marriage Registrar Office handles this.
Step 3: Submit Notice of Intended Marriage (Form-A)
Fill Form-A at the SDM Office. Submit:
Form-A duly filled
Aadhaar of both parties
Age proof + address proof
4 photographs each
Fee: ₹100-₹150
SDM enters this in the Marriage Notice Book and pastes a copy on notice board.
Step 4: Wait 30 Days for Public Notice
This is the longest part. 30 days from notice publication. During this:
Anyone with legal objection can file written objection
SDM examines objections (most are dismissed)
You can use this time to prepare witness IDs, certified affidavits
Step 5: Solemnize the Marriage
After 30 days, schedule the marriage day at the SDM Office. Both parties + 3 witnesses (with IDs) appear. Sign Form-B — Declaration of Marriage. Marriage Officer countersigns. You're legally married now.
Step 6: Receive the Marriage Certificate
Govt Marriage Certificate is issued within 7-15 working days. Bilingual (English + Hindi/local language). Bears SDM seal and signature. Valid across India and abroad with apostille.
Step 7: Apostille & Use Certificate
If you need it abroad (spouse visa, work, study):
Get MEA Apostille — ₹500 + service charges
Embassy attestation (if specific country requires)
