Marriage Registration
Obtain a legal marriage certificate from your local ward or municipality.
Marriage Registration Guide Nepal 2026
1. Legal Age for Marriage
Under the Muluki Civil Code 2074, the legal age for marriage for both men and women is 20 years. Marriages involving anyone under this age are legally void and carry criminal penalties.
2. Two Ways to Register
Ward Registration (Social)
For couples already married via social/religious rituals. This is done at the Ward Office of the husband's permanent address (or the wife's, if residing there).
Court Marriage (Legal)
For couples who wish to marry legally through a formal application at the District Court. This is common for inter-caste, inter-religious, or international marriages.
3. Required Documents
- Citizenship Certificates: Original and notarized photocopies of both bride and groom.
- Unmarried/Single Status Certificate: Issued by your respective local Ward Office. Note: This document is typically valid for 30 days only.
- Passport Size Photos: 4 copies each.
- Witnesses: Two witnesses (one from each side) with their original citizenship certificates.
- Temporary Residency Letter: If applying in a district where you don't have permanent residency, you must prove you have lived there for at least 15 days.
4. The Registration Process (2026)
- Step 1: Online Pre-Enrollment: Visit the Vital Registration Portal. Enter details for "Marriage" to generate a Token/Submission Number.
- Step 2: Document Verification: Visit the Ward Office (for Social) or District Court (for Court Marriage) with your submission number and original documents.
- Step 3: Declaration & Signatures: Both parties and witnesses must sign the register in the presence of the Registrar or Judge.
- Step 4: Certificate Issuance: You will receive a digitally signed Marriage Registration Certificate.
5. Fees & Costs
| Service | Standard Fee | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Ward Registration | NPR 100 – 500 | Same Day |
| Court Marriage | NPR 500 (Court Tax) | 2 – 7 Working Days |
International Couples: If one partner is a foreign national, you must provide a No Objection Letter (NOC) from your embassy and a translated copy of your home country's marriage laws.
Marriage registration Nepal 2026, court marriage process Kathmandu, single status certificate ward office, bihe darta online Nepal.