Section 12 of The Foreign Marriage Act, 1969
Declaration by parties and witnesses.
Before the marriage is solemnized, the parties and three witnesses shall, in the presence of the Marriage Officer, sign a declaration in the form specified in the Second Schedule, and the declaration shall be countersigned by the Marriage Officer.
Summary
- Before the actual marriage takes place, a formal declaration document must be signed.
- Both people getting married must sign this declaration.
- Exactly three separate witnesses must also sign the declaration.
- This signing must happen directly in front of the Marriage Officer.
- The required wording for the declaration is found in the Second Schedule of the Act.
- Finally, the Marriage Officer must countersign (sign their own name on) the declaration.
Practical examples
FAQ
1. When does this declaration need to be signed?
It must be signed before the marriage is solemnized.
2. How many witnesses are needed for the declaration?
Exactly three witnesses must sign the declaration.
3. Does the Marriage Officer have to sign the document too?
Yes, the declaration must be countersigned by the Marriage Officer.
4. Where can I find the correct form for this declaration?
The form is specified in the Second Schedule of the Act.
Test yourself
1.Under Section 12 of The Foreign Marriage Act, 1969, how many witnesses must sign the declaration before the marriage is solemnized?
2.Under Section 12 of The Foreign Marriage Act, 1969, which part of the Act specifies the form that the declaration must take?
3.Under Section 12 of The Foreign Marriage Act, 1969, when must the declaration be signed by the parties and witnesses?
4.Under Section 12 of The Foreign Marriage Act, 1969, what is the specific role of the Marriage Officer regarding this declaration document?