Court Marriage in Nepal

Marriage is a social and legal relationship. It is defined as a contract between a woman and a man of full age. It is important to obtain legal recognition even if a marriage is conducted socially. In Nepal, marriage is legally recognized in two ways: through registration at the local government (ward office) or through court marriage. Marriage registration at the ward office is done under the Birth, Death, and Personal Events Registration Act and Marriage Registration Act. Court marriage at the district court is carried out according to the legal provisions of the Muluki Civil Code 2074.

To register a court marriage in the district court, certain documents and procedures must be completed. These mandatory documents include:

1. Duly filled and signed application form in the prescribed format.
2. Bridegroom's self-declaration letter.
3. Groom’s recommendation letters issued from local wards prove his unmarried or single status.
4. The bride’s recommendation letters were issued from local wards proving her unmarried or single status.
5. Four copies of passport-size photographs of the bride and groom.
6. Original citizenship of the bride and the bridegroom.
7. Both bride and groom must be 20 years old.
8. Citizenship of two witnesses who are over 18 years old and Nepali citizens.
9. If the marriage is to be registered from the place of temporary residence, a temporary residence recommendation letter from the ward is required (at least 15 days of temporary residence).
10. In the case of foreign nationals, a No Objection Letter from the local government of their country stating unmarried or divorced, an Affidavit of Eligibility to marry from the embassy in Nepal, and a copy of the Nepali translation of the marriage law of that country, Citizenship of his /her respective country, Passport, Visa and 4 pp sizes photos are required documents. Also, a temporary Residence Certificate(must have been residing in Nepal for a minimum of 15 days) from the ward office of your temporary address, and if divorcee then an original Judgement of Divorce Paper is required.
11. And, If all the requirements are fulfilled and verified, then a marriage will be legally completed and confirmed by the court.