Court Marriage in Nepal: Complete Process for 2025

The Legal Alternative to Traditional Weddings

Court Marriage (Marriage Registration by Court) is gaining immense popularity in Nepal. Whether for visa purposes, inter-caste relationships, or simply to save costs, the District Court provides a streamlined path.

Governed by the Marriage Registration Act 2028 and Civil Code 2074, this process is legally binding worldwide.

Eligibility Criteria

1. Age: Both parties must be 20 Years completed. (Under 20 is illegal, even with parental consent).
2. Consent: Both must be willing.
3. Single Status: Neither party can be currently married. Divorcees must have final court decrees.

---

Process for Nepali Citizens

Timeframe: 2-3 Days.

1. Unmarried Certificate: Get a “Single Status Certificate” (Avibhahit Pramanpatra) from your local Ward Office.
2. Application: File a joint application at the District Court (usually Kathmandu or Lalitpur).
3. Appearance: Both parties + 2 Witnesses (with Citizenship) must appear before the judge.
4. Certificate: The Judge approves the marriage and issues the Certificate immediately.

---

Process for Foreigners (or Nepali + Foreigner)

Timeframe: 16-20 Days.

If one or both parties are foreign nationals, the process is stricter.

1. The 15-Day Stay Rule

The foreign national must have legally resided in the district for at least 15 days before filing the application.

• Proof: Hotel receipt or Ward letter (Temporary Stay recommendation).

2. No Objection Letter (NOC)

The foreigner must provide an NOC / Single Affidavit from their Embassy in Nepal.

• This document states they are free to marry and their country recognizes the marriage.
• Note: Some embassies (like USA, UK) provide an affidavit which then needs notarization/Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) attestation.

3. The 15-Day Court Notice

Once the application is filed, the Court issues a Temporary Order.

• A notice is pasted on the court board for 15 Days to allow public objections.
• No shortcuts: This waiting period is mandatory by law.

4. Final Registration

On the 16th day, you appear with witnesses, sign the register, and get the English-language Marriage Certificate.

Why Court Marriage?

• Visa Proof: Essential for Dependent Visas (Australia, USA, Canada).
• Property Rights: Establishes immediate legal claims.
• Inter-Caste/Religion: The court does not look at caste or religion, only legal age and consent.

Required Documents Checklist to bring to us:

• Original Citizenships / Passports.
• 4 Passport Size Photos each.
• Unmarried Certificates (Ward/Embassy).
• Witnesses (can be friends/family).

Disclaimer: We handle the entire documentation and court representation for hassle-free marriage registration.