Marriage creates legal implications which bind spouses with duties and bestow them with certain rights. It is therefore suggested that couples obtain a marriage certificate. Applicants can apply either online or offline for a marriage certificate. This article explains the online process of obtaining a marriage certificate in Mumbai.
The process of obtaining a marriage certificate in Mumbai has been partially digitalised by the government. The application is to be filled online, while verification of documents remains an offline process. Applicants are to fill Form D, available on the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) website, and are required to upload their own documents as well as those of their witnesses. Following is the list of documents required:
- Age proof of the bride and groom: birth certificate, passport, domicile certificate, or HSC/SSC certificate.
- Proof of residence of the bride, groom and the three witnesses: election card, electricity bill, telephone bill, passport, or Aadhaar card.
- A copy of the wedding card.
- Passport-size photographs of the bride, groom, and the three witnesses.
This process is followed by making a payment of Rs. 16 on the portal. A receipt is generated, and applicants are to take a print of the same. The receipt specifies the date and time of appointment. On the designated date, the bride, groom and the three witnesses are to visit their designated BMC ward office, the location of which will be mentioned on the receipt. Applicants must note that the witnesses must be above 18 years of age.
On the date of appointment, the bride, groom and witnesses sign certain documents in the presence of the BMC officer. Upon completion, applicants will have to again make a payment, on the BMC's website itself, for obtaining the marriage certificate. Subsequently, they will receive a receipt and the marriage certificate on their email ID.
Things to Remember
- Applicants are to initiate the application process within 60 days of marriage.
- Make sure you get the signature of the priest or kazi on the PDF of the marriage application form.
- You might be required to fill additional forms; carry extra passport-size photographs.
- Carry all important documents: a photocopy of the application form, print of the payment receipt, and originals and photocopies of the uploaded documents.
- Applicants should be attentive regarding the information being filled in. Once the application is approved by the officer, modifications are not permitted.
Obtaining a marriage certificate is not merely a legal formality. It comes with additional benefits: spouses can claim tax benefits, apply for a spouse visa, and it is a necessary document where spouses are looking for a joint home loan or purchasing joint property. So, apply for a marriage certificate and enjoy these benefits.
Disclaimer: The content of this article is intended to provide general guidance on the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.