Procedure to marry a girl of a different nationality by IFS officer?

57 votes

Clause 8(1) of the Indian Foreign Service (conduct and discipline) Rules, 1986 says no member of the service shall marry any person other than an Indian citizen "without the prior permission in writing of the government".Officers who intend to marry foreign nationals have made a written application to the foreign secretary and give the government one year to reply.

Clause 8(3) says, "If a member of the service contracts marriage with a person other than an Indian citizen without obtaining prior written permission, he shall be liable to be removed from the service."

The rules further state that the government reserves the right to refuse permission if it feels to marriage will hinder proper performance of the duties of the member of the service.

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LawRato LawRato

215 votes

Marrying a person of a different nationality by an Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer is possible, but there are specific procedures and considerations to keep in mind. Here's a guide on the procedure to marry a foreign national as an IFS officer:

1. Eligibility: Indian Foreign Service officers are typically eligible to marry foreign nationals, but it's essential to check the specific rules and regulations of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) or the government in force during your service.
2. Notification: IFS officers are usually required to inform the MEA or their respective authorities about their intention to marry a foreign national. This notification is essential to ensure compliance with regulations and diplomatic protocols.
3. Security Clearance: Before the marriage, the officer may need to undergo a security clearance process to ensure that the marriage does not compromise national security or diplomatic interests.
4. MEA Approval: In some cases, the MEA may need to grant approval for the marriage to proceed. This approval is essential to ensure that the marriage complies with diplomatic and national interest considerations.
5. Documentation: Ensure that all necessary documents, such as passports, visas, and legal certificates, are in order. These documents will be required for the marriage to take place and for the foreign spouse to reside in India.
6. Cultural Sensitivity: Being in the IFS, it's crucial to be culturally sensitive and respectful of the traditions and customs of your foreign spouse's nationality. This can help in building strong diplomatic relationships.
7. Legal Advice: Consult with legal experts or MEA officials to understand the specific procedures and requirements for marrying a foreign national during your service as an IFS officer.

It's worth noting that while IFS officers can marry foreign nationals, the process may involve various administrative steps and approvals. It's essential to follow the guidelines provided by the MEA or your respective authority to ensure a smooth and compliant marriage process.

Advocate Chikirsha Mohanty LawRato

61 votes

IFS officers of both genders are permitted to marry people from other countries. There is a clearly defined procedure to follow. First, the officer must apply for permission to the Government of India.

Advocate Chikirsha Mohanty LawRato