At La Classe Translation Private Limited, we specialize in offering professional documentation and legalization services for individuals around the world. One of the most frequently requested services today is an unmarried certificate apostille, especially for people planning to study, work, or get married abroad. This blog provides you with a complete and humanized understanding of what an unmarried certificate is, why apostille is required, the process involved, the documents needed, and the importance of having professionals assist you.
What is an Unmarried Certificate?
An unmarried certificate is an official document issued by an authorized body (such as local authorities, notary public, or state government offices) that certifies that a person is single at the time of issuance. It states clearly that the individual has never been married or is currently legally single after divorce or widowhood.
For Indians and citizens of many other countries, this document is often needed for:
* International marriages – when you plan to marry a foreign national abroad.
* Work visas – some countries require proof of single status before granting long-term employment permits.
* Permits for residency– background checks may be needed by the immigration authorities.
* Study abroad – in certain cases, especially when scholarships or dependent status is being processed.
However, simply having the certificate is not enough if you plan to use it outside your home country.
What is Unmarried Certificate Apostille?
Unmarried certificate apostille refers to the authentication of your unmarried certificate under the Hague Convention of 1961. More than 120 countries are part of this convention, and they require apostille instead of lengthy embassy legalization.
The apostille is a special square-shaped sticker or stamp affixed to your certificate by a designated government authority. It confirms that:
* The signature on your document is genuine.
* The seal or a stamp can also be used on the certificate , it should be legal as well as authentic.
* The issuing authority is legally recognized.
This process ensures that your unmarried certificate is legally valid and accepted in foreign countries without additional attestation.
Why Do You Need Unmarried Certificate Apostille?
The requirement for unmarried certificate apostille
1. Marriage abroad – Many foreign governments require proof that you are legally single before registering your marriage with a local citizen.
2. Visa processing – Certain work or dependent visas demand proof of marital status to prevent fraudulent claims.
3. Legal residency – Immigration procedures may require this as part of background verification.
4. International adoption – In rare cases, it may also be needed when adopting a child abroad.
Without apostille, your unmarried certificate may be rejected by authorities in the country you’re applying to.
From whom the Apostille for an Unmarried Certificate is issued by?
The process, however, often involves multiple steps before MEA verification, such as:
1. Notary Attestation – Initial verification of the document.
2. State Home Department / SDM Attestation– State-level verification of the unmarried certificate.
3. MEA Apostille – Final authentication with an apostille stamp.
For other countries, similar government departments (such as foreign ministries or consular services) carry out this task.
Step-by-Step Process of Unmarried Certificate Apostille
The process of obtaining unmarried certificate apostille may sound complex, but when broken down step by step, it becomes much clearer:
Step 1: Obtain the Unmarried Certificate
You first need to request an unmarried certificate from your local municipal authority, state government office, or district magistrate. For Indians abroad, the Indian Embassy or Consulate can sometimes issue it.
Step 2: Notarization
A registered notary verifies the authenticity of the certificate and signs/stamps it.
Step 3: SDM Attestation
The document is then verified by the State Home Department of the respective state where the certificate was issued. Alternatively, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) can also provide attestation.
Step 4: MEA Apostille
Finally, the document is submitted to the Ministry of External Affairs, which affixes the apostille stamp/sticker, making your certificate valid abroad.
This four-step process ensures that the certificate is properly legalized and accepted internationally.
Documents Required for Unmarried Certificate Apostille
To apply for unmarried certificate apostille, you will typically need:
* Original unmarried certificate.
* Photocopies of the certificate.
* Passport copy of the applicant.
* Any address proof like an Adharcar or more.
* Passport-size photographs.
Additional supporting documents can also be asked by certain countries.
How Long Does the Apostille Process Take?
On average, the unmarried certificate apostille process takes 5 to 15 working days, depending on:
* The state of issuance.
* Workload at the MEA.
* It can be applied directly or also can by applied with the help of an agency.
Delays may happen if documents are incomplete or if extra verification is needed.
Cost of Unmarried Certificate Apostille
The cost for unmarried certificate apostille depends on certain factors related to itself only :
* Government fees (set by the MEA or equivalent authority).
* State attestation charges.
* Service provider/agency charges if you hire professionals.
While government fees are fixed, agency service fees vary. Hiring a reliable agency like La Classe Translation Private Limited often saves time, effort, and multiple visits.
Challenges in Getting an Unmarried Certificate Apostille
Although the process is straightforward on paper, applicants often face challenges such as:
* Lack of clarity on where to apply.
* Time-consuming bureaucratic procedures.
* Multiple visits to government offices.
* Risk of rejection due to minor mistakes.
That’s why many people prefer to use professional apostille services that streamline the process.
Role of Professional Apostille Services
At La Classe Translation Private Limited, we have years of experience assisting individuals with unmarried certificate apostille and other document legalizations. Our services ensure:
* End-to-end support (from notarization to MEA apostille).
* Faster processing with minimal effort on your part.
* Guidance on required documents and formats.
* 100% accuracy and error-free attestation.
* Tracking and updates at every step.
Whether you are in India or abroad, professional help saves time, reduces stress, and ensures that your certificate is legally accepted internationally.
Countries Where Apostille is Accepted
An unmarried certificate apostille is valid in all Hague Convention member countries, including:
* United States
* United Kingdom
* France
* Germany
* Italy
* Spain
* Netherlands
* Australia
* Japan
* South Korea
* UAE (from 2023, after joining the Hague Convention)
Embassy attestation may be required instead of apostille only in case if your country is not the part of Convention of Hague.
Conclusion
The unmarried certificate apostille is an essential step for anyone planning to marry, work, or live abroad. Without it, your certificate may not be recognized by foreign authorities, causing unnecessary delays or rejection of your application. Although the process may seem complicated due to multiple levels of verification, professional services can make it seamless, accurate, and stress-free.
At La Classe Translation Private Limited, we specialize in offering end-to-end support for document apostille and legalization. With our expertise, you can be assured that your unmarried certificate apostille will be completed efficiently, saving you time and effort.
How many times can an unmarried certificate be apostilled?
Apostille is done once on the original document, and it remains valid unless the document itself expires.
Can I get an unmarried certificate apostille if I am divorced?
Yes. You may need to provide your divorce decree as supporting proof.
Is embassy attestation required after apostille?
No, for Hague Convention countries, apostille is sufficient. For non-Hague countries, embassy attestation may be necessary.
Can I apply for an unmarried certificate apostille from abroad?
Yes, Indian Embassies and professional agencies can assist you with the process while you are living abroad.
How long is the apostille valid?
In most cases, the apostille is valid permanently. However, some countries or institutions may require the certificate to be recent (within 6–12 months).
CONTACT LA CLASSE TRANSLATION PRIVATE LIMITED :
Website: www.laclasse.in
Phone No: +91-9315762227