Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between registering under the Hindu Marriage Act and the Special Marriage Act?
Religious ceremony registration (e.g. under the Hindu Marriage Act) is for couples who've already had a religious wedding; the Special Marriage Act is a civil registration route usable by any couple regardless of religion, often used for inter-faith marriages.
Do we need witnesses?
Yes, most registration routes require two witnesses with their own ID proof (Aadhaar) at the time of registration.
How soon after the wedding should we register?
There's no strict deadline, but registering promptly avoids complications later — many institutions (like passport offices) expect a certificate issued reasonably close to the marriage date.