Bihe Darta in Nepal: Marriage Registration Process at Ward & Court

Bihe Darta, or marriage registration, is the legal process of registering a marital relationship with the state in Nepal. It ensures that a marriage is formally recognized under the law. Governed by the Muluki Civil Code 2074, this process is essential for the legal protection of both spouses and for validating marital rights and responsibilities. A marriage is not officially recognized without registration, which may affect various legal rights, including property ownership, inheritance, and citizenship transmission.

Marriage registration in Nepal can take place in one of two venues: the Ward Office or the District Court, depending on the nature of the marriage and the couple’s preference.

Registration at the Ward Office

For most traditional marriages conducted according to religious or cultural customs, registration is done at the local Ward Office. The couple must apply in person and present required documents:

• Citizenship certificates of both individuals
• Passport-sized photographs
• Evidence of marriage (invitation cards, photos, witness statements)

Deadline: Within 35 days of the ceremony. Late registration is possible with additional justification.

The ward office verifies details, ensures mutual consent, checks for legal hindrances, and issues the marriage registration certificate.

Registration at the District Court

Couples opting for court marriage must go to the District Court. This route is ideal for mixed-caste, inter-national, inter-religious, or secular marriages.

Required documents include:

• Citizenship documents
• Single status proof (affidavit)
• Photos and testimonies

The couple expresses intent before a judge. If legal criteria are met, the marriage is recorded, and a certificate is issued.

Legal Obligations and Significance

• Both parties must be at least 20 years old
• Polygamy is prohibited
• Must be single/divorced/widowed
• Registration is essential for:
  • Citizenship of children
  • Asset division
  • Divorce processes
  • Protection against abuse

Ward Office Marriage Registration in Nepal

Deadline for Registration

Within 35 Days After the Wedding Ceremony

Required by law (Muluki Civil Code 2074).

Late Enrollment

A small penalty may apply. Additional clarifications/paperwork might be needed.

Submission of Application

Visit to the Ward Office

At least one partner must be physically present.

Completing the Application Form

Available at the ward office. Staff assistance possible.

Verification of Papers

Office authenticates documents, proof, and mutual agreement.

Required Documents

• Completed application form
• 2 passport-sized photographs of each partner
• Citizenship certificates (original + photocopy)
• Wedding proof (photos, invitation, witness testimony)
• Parental citizenship documents (sometimes required)
• Migration Certificate (Basai Sarai) for temporary residents

Issuance of Marriage Certificate

Confirmation by Ward Office

Witnesses may be contacted. Both spouses may need to appear.

Time for Certificate Issuance

Usually within 15 business days

Online Pre-Registration (Optional)

Couples can pre-register via the government website.

Submitting the Form

Personal and marital info must be filled.

Token Count

Token number must be submitted to the ward office within 30 days.

Final Steps

Final document check and issuance happen in person.

Court Marriage Registration in Nepal

Court marriage bypasses the need for a traditional ceremony and is suitable for:

• Nepali couples
• Nepali with foreigner
• Two foreigners

Applicant Qualifications

• Only Nepali Citizens: Allowed
• Nepali and non-Nepali: Allowed
• Two Foreigners: Allowed (if legal requirements met)

Marriage Legal Prerequisites

• Minimum age: 20 years
• Must be single/divorced/widowed with proof
• Free consent required
• Not closely related by blood
• Physical presence of bride and groom
• 2 adult Nepali witnesses with valid citizenship

Witness Required

• Physical presence of the couple
• 2 adult Nepali witnesses with citizenship certificates

Submission of Application and Documents

Application Form

Submitted at District Court.

Documents Needed

• Citizenship of both parties
• Citizenship of 2 witnesses
• 4 passport-sized photos of each
• Certificate of single status (from ward office)
• Temporary residence certificate (15-day minimum)

For Foreigners:

• Valid passport
• Valid visa
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from embassy
• Marriage law of their country (notarized + translated)
• 15-Day Stay Certificate

Legal Confirmation and Marriage Announcement

A judge verifies the couple's statements, reviews documents, and checks for legal compliance.

Distribution of Marriage Certificate

If compliant, the judge issues the Marriage Registration Certificate (Bihe Darta Praman Patra).

Comparison Table: Ward Office vs. Court Marriage Registration