Court Marriage in Nepal

Court Marriage in Nepal: A Complete Chronological Guide

Court marriage in Nepal is a straightforward legal process available to Nepalese citizens living within or outside Nepal, as well as to foreign nationals. This guide explains the legal framework, required documents, step-by-step procedures, and timelines to help couples understand the entire process clearly.

1. Introduction & Background

In Nepal, marriage registration can be completed through two legal pathways:

1. Court Marriage (Marriage Through District Court) – where the couple directly registers their marriage at a District Court based on mutual consent.
2. Marriage Certificate from Local Government (Ward Office) – issued after a traditional wedding conducted through religious or social rituals.

Although the law also allows marriage registration through Nepali Embassies or Consulate Offices abroad, this practice is currently not in use.

This guide focuses on court marriage, also called paper marriage or legal marriage registration through court.

2. Governing Laws

Court marriage in Nepal is governed by the National Civil Code (NCC) Act, 2074.

This Act defines the eligibility, rights, procedures, and legal effects of marriage registration.

3. Eligibility Criteria for Court Marriage

To apply for court marriage in Nepal, the couple must meet these requirements:

• Both individuals must have a single status (unmarried, divorced, or legally separated).
• Both must be 20 years of age or above.
• Both must voluntarily accept each other as husband and wife.
• No existing legal disqualifications should apply (such as prohibited blood relations).

4. Court Marriage Between Two Nepalese Citizens

4.1 Chronological Procedure

Step 1: Obtain Single Status Certificate

Both individuals must receive a Single Status Recommendation Letter from their respective ward office.

This letter confirms that the person is unmarried or legally divorced.

Note: Apply for marriage within 30 days of receiving this letter.

Step 2: Submission at District Court

Submit an application for court marriage at any of the 77 District Courts of Nepal. Couples may choose a district based on convenience.

Step 3: Verification of Documents

The court verifies the submitted documents and checks whether all legal requirements are met.

Step 4: Final Appearance and Witness Verification

Both individuals and their witnesses must be physically present on the appointed date.

Step 5: Issuance of Marriage Certificate

After verification and declaration, the court grants the official Court Marriage Certificate.

4.2 Required Documents for Nepalese Couples

1. Notarized copy of citizenship certificates of both man and woman
2. Single status recommendation letter from respective ward offices
3. Notarized citizenship copies of two witnesses
4. Temporary residence certificate from the ward office of the district where the application is submitted
5. Not needed if applying in the district where citizenship was issued.
6. Four passport-size photos of each person
7. Divorce decree if previously married

4.3 Timeline

For Nepalese citizens, the court marriage process generally takes:

➤ 2 to 3 working days

5. Court Marriage Involving a Foreign Citizen

The same legal process applies, but with additional requirements.

5.1 Additional Requirements for Foreign Nationals

Foreign nationals must stay in Nepal for at least 15 days before applying.

Additional documents required:

1. Single Status Certificate from their Embassy in Nepal
2. If no embassy exists in Nepal:

• Provide single status proof issued by the government authority in their home country
• The document must be in English and properly notarized

1. Temporary Residence Certificate
2. Issued by the local ward office after completing 15 days of stay in Nepal
3. English-translated and notarized copy of marriage laws of the applicant’s home country

5.2 Timeline for Foreign Nationals

• Minimum time required: 19 days
• Recommended stay: 22 to 24 days, as the court may request additional documents

5.3 Government Fees (Tentative)

Document / Process Fee (NPR)

Temporary residence certificate (Nepalese citizen)—2,000

Temporary residence certificate (foreigner)—20,000

Court registration fee: 500

6. Notarization & International Use of Marriage Certificate

If the marriage certificate is to be used abroad, it must be authenticated through:

1. Notarization at the Department of National Personal Records (Rastriya Kitabkhana)
2. Attestation by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), Nepal

This ensures international validity.

7. Conditions for Remarriage

A person may remarry legally in the following conditions:

• Their previous marriage has been legally terminated (divorce decree)
• The spouse has passed away
• The husband and wife are legally separated through partition in accordance with the law

8. Disclaimer

This guide is for general informational purposes. Legal requirements may vary based on individual circumstances. For personalized legal advice, consultation with a qualified legal professional or law firm is recommended.

Krishna Prasai