Marriage registration is a very essential legal step that validates a marital union and provides couples with official recognition under Indian law. In Chennai, the process is governed by the Tamil Nadu Registration Department and can be completed under either the Hindu Marriage Act (HMA), 1955, or the Special Marriage Act, 1954, depending on the couple’s religion and preferences.
Why Register Your Marriage?
- Legal Recognition: A marriage certificate serves as official recognition proof of the marital relationship which validates your marriage in the eyes of law, essential for visa applications, joint bank accounts, property rights, and inheritance claims.
- Protection Against Fraud: Registration helps prevent the various fraudulent marriages and ensures that both parties have consented freely and there is no illegality involved.
- Simplified Legal Processes: A registered marriage simplifies the basic procedures like name changes, obtaining spousal benefits, resolving disputes and many other like natures.
- Eligibility for Government Schemes: Many government schemes and benefits require proof of marriage.
Eligibility Criteria for Marriage Registration
To register a marriage in Chennai, the following conditions must be met:
- Age: The groom must be at least 21 years of age, and the bride must be at least 18 years old as prescribed by the law for legal marriage.
- Marital Status: Both parties must be unmarried at the time of registration. If previously married, a divorce decree or death certificate of the former spouse is required.
- Mental Capacity: Both individuals must be of sound mind and capable of giving valid consent.
- Residency: At least one party should be a resident of Chennai or the marriage should have been solemnized in Chennai.
Applicable Laws
- Hindu Marriage Act, 1955: Applicable to Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs. The marriage can be registered after the ceremony.
- Special Marriage Act, 1954: Applicable to all citizens irrespective of religion. It requires a 30-day notice period before the marriage can be solemnized and registered.
Required Documents for Marriage Registration in Chennai
Applicants need to submit the following documents:
- Proof of Age: Documents such as a Birth certificate, a passport, or a school leaving certificate.
- Proof of Address: Aadhaar card, voter ID, passport, or utility bills.
- Photographs: Recent passport-sized photos of both parties.
- Marriage Invitation or Proof: Wedding card or a certificate from the priest or pujari who solemnized the marriage.
- Affidavit: It states the marital status, date of birth, and nationality.
- Witnesses: Two eyewitnesses at the time of marriage with valid ID proofs…!
Marriage Registration Process in Chennai
Online Registration
The Tamil Nadu government has streamlined the marriage registration process through its online portal:
- Visit the Official Website: Navigate to the Tamil Nadu Registration Department’s website.
- Fill the Application Form: Complete the marriage registration form with accurate details.
- Upload Documents: The documents need to be scan and upload the required documents.
- Pay Fees: Pay the applicable registration fee as prescribed online.
- Book Appointment: Schedule an appointment with the Sub-Registrar’s office for document verification.
Offline Registration
For those preferring in-person registration:
- Visit the Sub-Registrar’s Office: Go to the office in the jurisdiction where the marriage was solemnized or where either party resides.
- Submit Application: Fill out and submit the marriage registration form along with the required documents.
- Verification: The registrar will then verify the documents and may interview the couple.
- Witness Signatures: Witnesses will sign in the presence of the registrar.
- Issuance of Certificate: Upon successful verification, the marriage certificate will be issued.
Fees
- Hindu Marriage Act: Rs. 100
- Special Marriage Act: Rs. 150
- Additional Charges: Affidavit preparation and notarization may cost around Rs. 400–500.
Timeframe
- Under the Hindu Marriage Act, The Registration should be done within 90 days of marriage. Delays up to 150 days are permissible with a fine.
- Under the Special Marriage Act, A 30-day notice period is mandatory before the marriage can be solemnized and registered.
Important Considerations
- Witnesses: Two witnesses are required, each with valid identification.
- Language: If documents are in a language other than English or Tamil, a translated and notarized copy may be necessary.
- Same-Sex Marriages: Currently, same-sex marriages are not legally recognized in Tamil Nadu.
Contact Information
For assistance or more information:
- Address: No. 100, Santhome High Road, Chennai-600028, Tamil Nadu, India
- Phone: 044-24640160
- Email: helpdesk@tnreginet.net
Conclusion
Registration of your marriage in Chennai is a smooth and easy process that ensures your union is legally recognized and validated in the eyes of the law, providing numerous benefits and protections as per the law. Whether you choose the online or offline method, ensuring that all the prescribed documents are accurate and submitted in a timely manner will facilitate a smooth registration experience…!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it mandatory to register a marriage in Chennai?
Yes. While traditional ceremonies validate a marriage socially and religiously, legal registration provides official proof and is mandatory for availing legal rights and government services.
2. Which Act should I register my marriage under, the Hindu Marriage Act or the Special Marriage Act?
- Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 – If both bride and groom are Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, or Sikhs.
- Special Marriage Act, 1954 – If the couple belongs to different religions or prefers a civil marriage.
3. Can interfaith couples register their marriage in Chennai?
Yes. Interfaith couples can register under the Special Marriage Act, 1954, which allows people of other religions or those who prefer a civil marriage to legally register their union.
4. How long does it take to get a marriage certificate?
- Under the Hindu Marriage Act (HMA) – The certificate is typically issued on the same day or within a few days after document verification.
- Under the Special Marriage Act (SMA) – The 30-day notice period is required to be serve before the marriage can be solemnized and registered.
5. What documents are needed for marriage registration?
- Age proof (e.g., birth certificate, SSLC, passport)
- Address proof (e.g., Aadhaar, voter ID)
- Marriage invitation or priest’s certificate
- Passport-sized photographs
- Two witnesses with ID proof
- Affidavit (in some cases)
