Marriage Law in Nepal: Complete Legal Guide for Nepali and Foreign Couples

Marriage is a major life event — emotionally, socially, and legally. In Nepal, tying the knot is more than just a cultural or religious act. It’s a legal process governed by well-defined laws that ensure the rights of both spouses are protected. Whether you’re planning a court marriage, traditional wedding, or marrying a foreign partner, understanding the marriage law in Nepal is crucial.

This comprehensive guide explains Nepal’s current marriage laws under the Muluki Civil Code 2074, legal eligibility, registration procedures, foreign marriage rules, and what happens if things go wrong.

Legal Framework: Marriage Law Under Muluki Civil Code 2074

The Muluki Civil Code 2074 (2017) is the primary legislation governing marriage in Nepal. It replaced the older Muluki Ain and introduced modern standards that align more closely with constitutional values like equality, non-discrimination, and legal clarity.

Sections 67 to 84 govern:

• Definitions and conditions for legal marriage

• Age and consent requirements

• Provisions for registration, dispute resolution, and divorce

Types of Legal Marriages in Nepal

Nepal recognizes two main forms of marriage:

1. Court Marriage (Civil Marriage)

A formal process done at the District Court, where both parties agree to marry based on mutual consent. It’s the most legally sound and popular method for:

• Interfaith couples

• Inter-caste unions

• Foreigners marrying Nepali citizens

2. Traditional or Religious Marriage

Marriage done through Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Buddhist, or other customary ceremonies. While valid, these must be registered afterward at the Ward Office for legal recognition.

Important: Only registered marriages are legally valid under Section 73 of the Civil Code.

Legal Eligibility to Marry in Nepal

To get married in Nepal, both parties must fulfill the following conditions:

• Minimum age: 20 years for both men and women (with or without parental consent)

• Both must be unmarried, divorced, or widowed

• Must not be related within restricted degrees of kinship

• Must marry with free and informed consent

Mandatory Marriage Registration

According to Section 73 of the Civil Code, marriage must be registered either:

• At the District Court (court marriage)

• Or the Ward Office (after traditional marriage)

Failure to register means the marriage has no legal status, affecting rights to property, inheritance, child custody, or visa processes.

Marriage Registration Process in Nepal

Court Marriage

Best For: Inter-caste, interfaith, urgent, or foreign marriages

Steps:

1. Collect documents (citizenship, single status certificate, photos)

2. Visit the District Court with two witnesses

3. Attend a hearing before a judge

4. Get the certificate in 1–2 working days

Ward Office Registration

Best For: Post-traditional marriages

Steps:

1. Submit marriage photos/videos, witness names, and form

2. Provide citizenship of both parties and single status letter

3. Marriage certificate issued within 1–3 days

Marrying a Foreigner in Nepal

Nepal allows marriage with foreign nationals, but additional documents are required:

For the Foreigner:

• Valid passport with Nepali visa

• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their embassy

• 15-day residence letter from local ward

• Translated & notarized marriage law of their country

Once complete, the foreigner and Nepali partner can marry via court or register a traditional ceremony at the ward.

Note: Same sex marriage is not registered by the courts in Nepal. Rather, it could be registered in the ward office by conducting a religious ceremony as of April 2025.

Special Marriage Cases Under Nepal Law

Interfaith Marriages

Permitted and protected under court marriage law. No religious conversion is required.

Second Marriages

Only allowed if:

• Previous spouse is deceased

• A legal divorce is finalized

• Consent is given by court (in polygamy-related exceptions)

Live-in Relationships

Not explicitly illegal, but not protected under marriage law unless registered.

Same-sex marriage

Not yet legalized, but a constitutional review is pending in the Supreme Court.

Legal Services and Support in Nepal

Hiring a marriage lawyer or family law advocate is recommended in the following cases:

• Marrying a foreign national

• Drafting pre-marital contracts

• Settling property disputes

• Contesting custody or filing for divorce

Legal aid is also available through:

• Nepal Bar Association

• Law clinics in Kathmandu

• NGOs for women’s and migrant rights

Key Takeaways

• Marriage registration is mandatory for all marriages in Nepal — including traditional ones.

• Foreigners can marry in Nepal but need embassy verification and a residence certificate.

• The legal minimum age for marriage is 20 years, and no marriage is valid without consent.

• Court marriage is the most secure and fastest route, especially for interfaith or mixed-nationality couples.

• Property, custody, and marital disputes are handled by District Courts under the Muluki Civil Code.

Final Words

Nepal’s marriage law in 2025 balances tradition with legal accountability. Whether you're getting married through a grand ceremony or a quiet court process, your marriage needs legal recognition to protect your rights and responsibilities.

Need help navigating court paperwork, foreign marriage procedures, or post-marriage disputes? Consulting a qualified marriage lawyer in Nepal can make the difference between confusion and clarity.

Let love lead — and let the law follow.