Marriage registration is a legal step for couples in Nepal for the purpose of entering into a civil union, or registering a traditional ceremony. It ensures legal recognition of the relationship and grants access to rights related to property, inheritance, immigration, and social status. The matters relating to marriage registration in Nepal is governed by the National Civil Code, 2017 (2074) which outlines legal grounds and eligibility, procedures and types of marriage registration, and its recognition.
This article outlines the methods, procedures, documentation, and legal considerations involved in marriage registration in Nepal.
A. Marriage Registration
A marriage, whether via traditional ceremony or court, must be compulsorily registered pursuant to the National Civil Code 2017(2074). A valid application must be processed within 15 days of marriage at the relevant local level ward office, where a marriage certificate is issued accordingly.
B. Types of Marriage Registration
The types of marriage registration in Nepal are as follows:
| Types | Description |
| Marriage registration at local level ward office | If the couples have already married through customary/religious practices, the marriage must be registered at the relevant local level ward office. |
| Court marriage | Marriage can be registered before the District Court, commonly referred to as a “paper marriage”. Such marriage must also be registered at the relevant local level ward office. |
| Note: The existing law also allows for the option of registering a marriage through the Embassy of Nepal or a Consulate Office in a foreign jurisdiction; however, this has not yet been implemented in practice. | |
C. Eligibility Criteria
For marriage registration, the couples must have met certain eligibility criteria pursuant to National Civil Code 2017(2074), as listed below:
- Both parties must have completed the age of 20;
- Neither party should be currently married (unless legally divorced or widowed);
- Both parties must accept each other as husband and wife; and
- The couple must not be related in a prohibited degree of kinship.
D. Registration Procedure
As per the National Civil Code of Nepal 2017 (2074), matters relating to marriage registration in Nepal is governed by the National Civil Code, 2017 (2074) individuals who wish to do court marriage must follow a specific legal process. The steps outlined below provide the guidance on how to complete the procedure in accordance with the law.
| Steps | Procedure |
| Step 1 | Fulfill the eligibility criteria |
| Step 2 | Submission of Application (Can submit the application at the District Court or Local Ward) |
| Step 3 | Proof of Residence (One party must submit 15-day local residence) |
| Step 4 | Submission of Required Documents |
| Step 5 | Decision and Consent (Upon verification, a deed of consent is recorded in the presence of two witnesses) |
| Step 6 | Issuance of Certificate (Issued within 7 days) |
E. Required Documents
The documents that are required for registration of marriage in Nepal are as follows:
| S.N. | Documents Required |
| 1. | Completed application form |
| 2. | Four passport-sized photographs (each) |
| 3. | Citizenship Certificates |
| 4. | Letter of single status from Ward Office |
| 5. | Citizenship copies of two witnesses |
Additional for Foreign Nationals:
Foreign nationals must provide extra documents along with the regular documents needed for marriage registration in Nepal.
| S.N. | Documents Required |
| 1. | No-objection certificate from embassy |
| 2. | Translated and notarized copy of foreign marriage law |
| 3. | Temporary residence certificate |
| 4. | Passport and visa copy |
F. Issuance of Marriage Certificate
Couples married through customary or religious practices can apply for registration at their permanent residence’s Ward Office. Required documents include evidence of rituals (photos, videos). Upon verification, a certificate is issued.
G. Digital Services and Online Availability
Although full digital submission is not yet operational, selected services are available online:
| Online Service | Status |
| Procedure Information | Available |
| Downloadable Forms | Available |
| Appointment Booking | Available in select areas |
| Online Application | Not Available |
| Status Tracking | Available |
Visit the official websites of Kathmandu Metropolitan City or Department of National ID and Civil Registration for access.
H. Timelines
The timelines for marriage registration in Nepal are as follows:
| Court Marriage (Nepali couple) | 2–3 working days |
| Court Marriage (if one party is a foreigner) | 19–24 working days |
| Traditional Marriage Registration: 7–10 days | 7–10 days |
| Certificate Issuance | Within 7 days of verification |
I. Provisions on Re-Marriage
The National Civil Code 2017 (2074) allows re-marriage in the following circumstances:
- Legal divorce between spouses
- Death of one spouse
- Termination of marriage by court or property separation by law.
Final Thoughts
Marriage registration in Nepal is a formal and essential procedure that ensures legal recognition of a union. While the system is largely paper-based, gradual digital transformation is underway. Whether you are a Nepali national, foreigner, or residing abroad, it is advisable to seek professional legal guidance for smooth compliance with procedural requirements.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice, advertisement, personal communication, solicitation or inducement. No attorney-client relationship is created through this content. Gandhi & Associates assumes no liability for any consequences resulting from actions taken based on information contained herein.
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