A marriage validly registered in Nepal is generally recognised in India, and the certificate can be attested and translated for Indian use. A Hindu marriage performed in India can be registered under section 8 of the Hindu Marriage Act and the state rules, and civil marriages can be performed under the Special Marriage Act. Nepali citizens do not need a visa to live in India, but a registered marriage still helps with records and property.
- Document route
- Nepali notary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs attestation, then Indian Embassy attestation
- Time difference
- IST is 15 minutes behind Nepal all year
- Hindu marriages
- Section 8, Hindu Marriage Act 1955
- Civil marriage
- Special Marriage Act 1954
Marriage Registration from Nepal: how it works
For a ceremony already performed, we collect proof such as photographs, the wedding invitation and witnesses, and register the marriage with the registrar in the district where it took place or where either spouse lives. For a Nepali registration, we arrange Ministry and Indian mission attestation and translation of the certificate.
For a civil marriage in India, we file notice under the Special Marriage Act after the required 30 days of residence, deal with objections and arrange the solemnisation. We also advise on changing names in records, adding the spouse to property and bank accounts, and making wills.
What clients in Nepal should know
- Bring both spouses' citizenship certificates or passports and age proof.
- Late registration of an old marriage is possible, but may need an affidavit and a small fee.
- A registered marriage is strong evidence in later succession or maintenance cases.
Step by step from Nepal
Video consultation
A call at a time that suits Nepal, after we have read your documents.
Documents signed in Nepal
Nepali notary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs attestation, then Indian Embassy attestation
Work in India
Our team files, appears and follows up in India, and shares scans of everything filed.
Result and handover
Certified copies and originals are couriered to you in Nepal where needed.
The full guide
This page covers what changes when you are in Nepal. For the law, the documents and the step-by-step procedure, read our main page on Marriage Registration, or see all services for clients in Nepal and the Cross-Border Family Law practice area.
Questions from clients in Nepal
Is a marriage performed in Nepal valid in India?
Yes, if valid under Nepali law. Attest and translate the certificate for Indian use.
Can we register a marriage that took place years ago?
Yes, most states allow late registration with an affidavit and supporting proof.
Does my Nepali spouse need a visa to live in India?
No, Nepali citizens do not need a visa, but other records still benefit from a registered marriage.