Marriage Certificate Attestation: A Simple Guide

Getting married to a foreigner? Congratulations! Now, you’ll likely need to get your Indian Marriage Certificate attested. This means getting official stamps from different authorities to prove its authenticity.

Required Documents:

• Original Marriage Certificate: This is the most crucial document.
• Passport Photocopies: Of both the husband and wife.

The Attestation Process:

Attestation is a multi-step process. It usually involves these steps:   

1. State/UT Attestation: First, the certificate needs to be attested by the Home Department or GAD of the state where the marriage was registered.

2. MEA Attestation: After state attestation, the certificate needs to be attested by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in New Delhi.  

3. Embassy/Consulate Attestation: Finally, the certificate must be attested by the Embassy/Consulate of the foreign spouse’s country in India.

How Long Does it Take?

The entire process can take 10-12 working days or longer, depending on the issuing authority of the marriage certificate.

Cost of Attestation:

The cost varies depending on the state, the specific requirements of the foreign country, and the current embassy fees. Contact us for the most up-to-date cost information.

Important Notes:

• Original Certificate: Always use the original marriage certificate for attestation.
• Clear and Readable: Ensure all signatures and stamps are clear and legible.
• No Unusual Markings: Avoid any unusual markings on the certificate.

Contact Us:

For further assistance and personalized guidance, contact Legal Light Consulting.

Disclaimer: This is a general guide. Specific requirements may vary. Always consult with the relevant authorities for the most accurate information.

This article aims to provide a simplified explanation of the marriage certificate attestation process.