The Complete Document Checklist for Foreigners Marrying in Nepal (2026 Edition)
Planning an international wedding in Nepal? Whether you are a US citizen marrying a Nepali, or two foreigners tying the knot in Kathmandu, the legal process is strictly regulated by the National Civil Code 2074.
The District Court does not accept incomplete files. One missing stamp or a vaguely worded letter can lead to immediate rejection.
To ensure your application is approved on the first attempt, we have compiled this Essential Document Checklist for 2026.
1. The "Big Three" Essential Documents
These are the non-negotiable documents that form the core of your application.
A. Original Passport & Valid Visa
- Requirement: You must bring your original passport. Photocopies alone are not accepted during filing.
- Visa Status: You must be on a valid visa (Tourist, Business, or Student).
- Expiry Rule: Ensure your visa has at least 7-10 days remaining when you file, to cover the processing time.
B. Affidavit of Eligibility (NOC / Single Status)
This is the most critical document. The Court needs proof that you are single and legally free to marry.
- Where to get it: Your country’s Embassy or Consulate in Nepal.
- What it must say: It must clearly state your name, passport number, and that you are "Single," "Divorced," or "Widowed" and eligible to marry.
- Note for US/UK/Aus Citizens: You typically swear an oath (Affidavit) at your embassy in Kathmandu.
C. Proof of Stay (The 15-Day Rule)
You cannot marry immediately upon landing.
- Requirement: Evidence that you have resided in the district (e.g., Kathmandu) for at least 15 consecutive days.
- The Document: A "Temporary Stay Letter" (Asthai Basobas Sifaris) issued by the local Ward Office.
- Tip: Keep your hotel receipts or landlord agreement handy to get this letter.
2. Supporting Legal Papers
Besides your ID, the court requires specific legal proofs.
D. Marriage Law of Your Home Country
The Nepali court needs to know that you are of "Legal Marriage Age" in your own country.
- The Document: An extract or printout of your country's marriage law (e.g., "In the UK, the legal age for marriage is 18").
- Translation: This text must often be translated into Nepali and notarized to be accepted by the Judge.
E. Passport Size Photographs
- Quantity: 4 recent photos.
- Format: Clear face, both ears visible, no sunglasses.
3. If You Are Divorced or Widowed
If you have been married before, the standard "Single Affidavit" might not be enough. You must provide the "Chain of Evidence."
- Divorce Decree: The original court order dissolving your previous marriage.
- Death Certificate: If your former spouse has passed away.
- Translation: If these documents are in a language other than English (e.g., Spanish, Chinese, German), they must be translated into English or Nepali and notarized.
4. Witness Documents
You need two witnesses to sign the registry with you.
- Who can be a witness? Any Nepali citizen (friends, family, or even legal staff).
- Document Required: Their Original Citizenship Certificate (Nagarikta).
- Note: Foreigners usually cannot serve as witnesses for official court registration; it is safer to have Nepali citizens.
5. Professional Translation & Notarization
Even if you have all the papers above, you cannot just hand them to the Judge.
- Notarization: Every photocopy (Passport, Visa) must be verified by a Notary Public in Nepal.
- Nepali Translation: Your Embassy’s Affidavit (NOC) is usually in English. The Court often requires a Nepali translation of this affidavit so the details can be entered into the official Nepali records.
Don't Let Paperwork Delay Your Wedding
Gathering Embassy Affidavits, Ward Letters, and Translations can be overwhelming for a foreigner in a new country.
At Court Marriage Nepal, we handle the entire documentation workflow for you. From drafting the application to arranging notarization and witnesses, we ensure your file is 100% court-ready.
For Foreigner Marriage Services:
📍 Office: Anamnagar, Kathmandu