The term “paper marriage” is often used to describe marriages that exist primarily on paper, without the typical elements of a traditional marital relationship. This article aims to provide clear and concise information about paper marriages in Nepal and answer common questions related to this concept.

What is a paper marriage in Nepal?

A paper marriage in Nepal refers to a marriage that exists legally on paper but may lack the typical characteristics of a traditional marital relationship. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Legal status: It’s a marriage registered with authorities but may not involve cohabitation or a typical marital relationship.
2. Motivations: Often entered into for reasons other than romantic partnership, such as financial benefits or immigration purposes.
3. Documentation: Involves the same legal documentation as a regular marriage.
4. Lack of ceremony: Usually doesn’t involve traditional marriage ceremonies or celebrations.

It’s important to note that the term “paper marriage” is colloquial and not a legal classification in Nepal.

Is paper marriage legal in Nepal?

The legality of paper marriages in Nepal is a complex issue:

1. No legal definition: Nepali law doesn’t specifically define or recognize “paper marriages” as a distinct category.
2. Legal requirements: All marriages must meet the legal requirements set by Nepali law to be considered valid.
3. Intention matters: If the intention is to defraud or circumvent laws, it could be considered illegal.
4. Scrutiny: Marriages suspected of being solely for documentation purposes may face increased scrutiny from authorities.

While the act of getting married primarily for documentation purposes isn’t explicitly illegal, using marriage to fraudulently obtain benefits or circumvent laws is against the law in Nepal.

What documents are needed for paper marriage?

The documents required for a paper marriage are the same as those for any legal marriage in Nepal:

1. Citizenship certificates: For Nepali citizens, original citizenship certificates and photocopies.
2. Passport: For foreigners, a valid passport and visa.
3. Photographs: Recent passport-sized photos of both parties.
4. Application form: A completed marriage registration application.
5. Witness details: Information and signatures of witnesses.
6. Single status proof: Documents proving both parties are legally free to marry.
7. No Objection Letter: For foreigners, a letter from their embassy (if applicable).

Can foreigners have paper marriages in Nepal?

Foreigners can legally marry in Nepal, but attempting a paper marriage solely for documentation purposes can be risky:

1. Legal requirements: Foreigners must meet all legal requirements for marriage in Nepal.
2. Visa implications: Marriage to a Nepali citizen can affect visa status, but immigration authorities scrutinize such cases.
3. Fraud concerns: Authorities may investigate marriages suspected of being solely for immigration benefits.
4. Legal consequences: If proven fraudulent, both parties could face serious legal repercussions.
5. International laws: Such marriages might also violate laws in the foreigner’s home country.

How is paper marriage different from court marriage?

Paper marriage and court marriage in Nepal differ primarily in intention and practice, not in legal process:

1. Legal process: Both follow the same legal registration process.
2. Intention: Court marriages typically involve a genuine intention to live as spouses, while paper marriages may not.
3. Cohabitation: Court marriages usually involve living together, while paper marriages may not.
4. Social recognition: Court marriages are generally socially recognized, while paper marriages might not be openly acknowledged.
5. Legal scrutiny: Paper marriages may face more scrutiny if authorities suspect fraud.

From a purely legal standpoint, if all requirements are met, both types of marriages have the same legal standing in Nepal.

Are there restrictions on who can have paper marriages?

There are no specific restrictions on paper marriages, but general marriage restrictions in Nepal apply:

1. Age requirement: Both parties must be at least 20 years old.
2. Consent: Both must be entering the marriage voluntarily.
3. Mental capacity: Both must have the mental capacity to consent to marriage.
4. Not currently married: Neither party can be in an existing marriage.
5. Not closely related: Marriages between close relatives are prohibited.
6. Residency: At least one party typically needs to be a resident of the area where the marriage is registered

While these are the legal requirements, authorities may scrutinize marriages more closely if they suspect the primary purpose is documentation rather than a genuine marital relationship.