Legal Age of Marriage in Pakistan – Rules & Penalties

For men, the legal marriage age is 18 years. For women, it is 16 years, except in Sindh, where it is 18.

2. What is the age of consent for marriage in Pakistan?

The age of consent aligns with the legal marriage age: 16 years for girls and 18 years for boys.

3. What is the minimum age for a girl to marry in Sindh?

In Sindh, both girls and boys must be 18 years old to marry.

4. What are the penalties for underage marriage?

Penalties include fines and imprisonment for parents or guardians arranging child marriages.

5. Can a minor marry under Islamic law in Pakistan?

Islamic law permits marriage at puberty, but legal restrictions apply under Pakistani law.

6. Why is Sindh’s marriage law different?

Sindh introduced stricter laws to curb child marriages and align with global standards.

7. What role does the Child Marriage Restraint Act play?

The Act sets the minimum legal age for marriage and prescribes penalties for violations.

8. How is the marriage age verified in Pakistan?

Marriage age is verified through official documents like CNICs and birth certificates.

9. What are the health risks of early marriage?

Early marriage can lead to complications during pregnancy and childbirth.

10. Are there any exceptions to the legal marriage age?

Exceptions are rare and usually involve court intervention.