Two documents, two functions
The Nikah Nama records the marriage contract. The computerized Marriage Registration Certificate is issued on the basis of the registered marriage record and is commonly required for official and overseas use, including spouse-visa applications.
Registration of the marriage is handled by the competent Union Council. The computerized certificate is then issued from that registered record. These are two separate stages, each with its own processing time, and neither is completed merely by holding a Nikah Nama.
What the process normally requires
- A completed Nikah and a registered marriage record
- The identity records of both spouses
- An application through the competent registration authority
- A check of names and spellings before issuance
- Certified translation, where the certificate will be used abroad
Before you apply
Requirements and processing vary by jurisdiction and by the circumstances of the marriage. We recommend having the documents reviewed before travel, payment or an appointment. If a name is recorded inconsistently across the Nikah Nama, CNIC and passport, it is far easier to resolve before the certificate issues than afterwards.
A receiving authority abroad may require certified translation, verification or further formalities. Confirm the destination country and the purpose in advance.
General legal information about the position as at the review date, not case-specific advice. Requirements differ between Islamabad Capital Territory and Punjab and can change. How we research and review these pages.