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- Single Status Certificate Apostille
- Introduction
In today’s interconnected world, many individuals move abroad for marriage, education, or employment. One of the most commonly required documents in such cases is the Single Status Certificate. This certificate proves that the person is unmarried and free to marry under the laws of their country. However, when such a certificate is used in a foreign nation, it usually requires a process called an Apostille to be legally valid.
The Apostille of a Single Status Certificate is crucial for anyone intending to marry abroad or present proof of singlehood in another country. In this guide, we will explore the meaning, process, requirements, benefits, and common doubts about Single Status Certificate Apostille in detail.
What is a Single Status Certificate?
A Single Status Certificate (SSC), sometimes referred to as a Bachelorhood Certificate, Unmarried Certificate, or Certificate of No Impediment (CNI), is an official document issued by the government confirming that a person has never been married, is legally divorced, or is widowed.
- This certificate is often required when:
- Getting married abroad.
- Applying for residency or spouse visa.
- Proving unmarried status for official purposes.
- Legal matters in foreign jurisdictions.
- What is Apostille?
Apostille is the process of authenticating documents for use in countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention of 1961. Instead of multiple layers of legalization, a single apostille stamp or sticker validates the document internationally.
If the country where you plan to use your certificate is a Hague member country, Apostille is sufficient. If not, the document must go through Embassy Attestation.
Why is Apostille Needed for a Single Status Certificate?
A foreign government cannot simply trust a certificate issued in another country without proper verification. Apostille ensures that:
- The document Is genuine.
- It is issued by a competent authority.
- It is legally recognized in another Hague member country.
- Without apostille, a single status certificate will not be accepted abroad for marriage or visa purposes.
- Process of Obtaining Apostille for Single Status Certificate
- The process may vary depending on the issuing country, but generally includes:
- Application for Single Status Certificate
Approach local notary, court, or municipal office.
Submit ID proof, affidavit, and declaration of bachelorhood.
- Notarization
The certificate must first be notarized by a registered notary public.
- Home Department / SDM Attestation
State Home Department or Sub-Divisional Magistrate verifies the document.
- MEA Apostille
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) applies an Apostille sticker/stamp.
Once apostilled, the certificate is legally valid in all Hague member countries.
Documents Required
Application form (if applicable).
Affidavit of single status.
Valid passport copy.
Birth certificate copy.
Address proof.
Divorce decree / death certificate of spouse (if previously married).
Passport-size photographs.
- Validity of Apostilled Single Status Certificate
Generally valid for 6 months from the date of issue (varies by country).
Some countries may accept certificates issued within the passport photographs
If expired, a new certificate and fresh apostille are required.
Timeframe
Normal processing: 7 to 15 working days.
Urgent cases: May be expedited with additional fees.
- Cost of Apostille
The cost varies depending on the country and service provider. In India, MEA charges are nominal, but additional service fees apply if handled through agents.
- Common Uses of Apostilled Single Status Certificate
- Marriage registration abroad.
- Visa application for spouse.
- Citizenship application.
- Legal settlements in foreign courts.
- Proving marital status in banking, property, or inheritance cases abroad.
- General FAQs
- What is a Single Status Certificate?
A legal document proving you are unmarried.
Why do I need a Single Status Certificate Apostille?
To validate the certificate abroad for marriage or legal purposes.
- Is Apostille mandatory for all countries?
Only for Hague Convention countries; others need embassy attestation.
- How long is the certificate valid?
Usually 3–6 months, depending on the destination country.
- Who issues the Single Status Certificate?
Local authorities such as SDM, municipal office, or notary.
- Can I apply for it online?
Some states/countries allow online applications, others require offline.
- Is it the same as a Bachelorhood Certificate?
Yes, both terms are used interchangeably.
- Can divorced people get it?
Yes, but they must provide the divorce decree.
- Do widows/widowers qualify?
Yes, by submitting the spouse’s death certificate.
- Can I get it in India for marriage in Europe?
Yes, with Apostille from MEA, it is valid in European Hague countries.
- Process FAQs
- How do I start the process?
By drafting an affidavit of bachelorhood and notarizing it.
- Is notarization compulsory?
Yes, it is the first step before attestation.
- Contact La Classe for Notarization Services
For professional and reliable notarization services in India, connect with La Classe today:
Website: www.laclasse.in
Phone: +91-9315762227
Email: manohar.roshan@laclasse.in