How to Do Registry Marriage in Bangladesh?

Published on December 26, 2024 • By EWU Matrimony Team
Registry Marriage Process

Registry marriage, often known as court marriage, is the legal procedure of solemnizing a union in Bangladesh. It provides legal recognition to the relationship and safeguards the rights of both partners. Whether you are planning a traditional ceremony later or opting for a simple civil union, registration is a crucial step.

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Meeting Eligibility Criteria

Before proceeding, ensure both parties meet the legal requirements:

  • Age: The groom must be at least 21 years old, and the bride must be at least 18 years old.
  • Consent: Both parties must agree to the marriage voluntarily.
  • Mental Capacity: Both must be of sound mind.

2. Gathering Required Documents

You will need to present the following documents to the Marriage Registrar (Kazi):

  • National ID (NID) cards or Birth Certificates of both bride and groom to prove age.
  • Passport-sized photographs (usually 2-4 copies each).
  • Witnesses: Minimum of two witnesses (for Muslim marriages) with their NID cards and photos.

3. Procedure for Muslim Marriages

  1. Go to a Kazi Office: Visit an authorized Nikah Registrar (Kazi) in your locality.
  2. Fix the Dower (Mohorana): Decide on the dower amount as it determines the registration fee.
  3. Sign the Kabinnama: The Kazi will fill out the Nikah Nama (Form 1601). Both the bride and groom, along with the witnesses and a lawyer (if present), will sign the document based on the declared dower.
  4. Receive Certificate: Once fees are paid and signatures are done, the Kazi issues a provisional receipt or the official Nikah Nama (Marriage Certificate) after a few days.

4. Procedure for Special/Court Marriages

For interfaith marriages or those under the Special Marriage Act 1872:

  • A notice must be given to the Special Marriage Registrar 14 days in advance.
  • If no objections are raised, the marriage is solemnized in the presence of the Registrar and three witnesses.
  • Both parties sign a declaration form.

Important Note

While many people refer to a "Court Marriage" as swearing an affidavit before a Magistrate, this affidavit alone is not a complete marriage. It is merely a declaration. The actual marriage MUST be registered with the relevant Marriage Registrar (Kazi for Muslims) to be legally valid under Muslim Law.

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