When planning to marry abroad or apply for residency in a foreign country, one of the most important documents you may be asked for is the Single Status Certificate. This certificate confirms that you are legally unmarried and free to marry. However, before foreign governments or embassies recognize it, the document must go through a detailed attestation process in India.

In this blog, we will take you through a complete step-by-step guide to help you understand how to get your Single Status Certificate attested.

What Is a Single Status Certificate?

A Single Status Certificate, sometimes called a Certificate of No Impediment, Bachelorhood Certificate, or Celibacy Certificate, is an official declaration stating that you are not married. This document is essential for Indians planning to marry in countries like the USA, UK, Canada, UAE, Australia, and other foreign jurisdictions where legal proof of singlehood is mandatory.

Why Is Attestation Necessary?

Attestation is the process of authenticating a document for international use. Without attestation, your certificate will not be valid abroad. Governments and embassies require this verification to prevent fraud, confirm authenticity, and ensure legal compliance.

Step-by-Step Process of Attesting a Single Status Certificate in India

Step 1: Application for Certificate

• Visit the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), District Magistrate (DM), or local municipal authority.
• Submit your identity proof, address proof, and an affidavit declaring your unmarried status.
• Once approved, the certificate will be issued.

Step 2: Notary Attestation

• The first step of verification is Notary Attestation.
• A local notary public certifies that the document is genuine and legally binding.

Step 3: State Home Department Attestation

• The document must then be attested by the State Home Department of your respective state.
• This step provides state-level authentication and makes the document legally stronger.

Step 4: Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Attestation

• The MEA plays a critical role in validating your certificate at the central level.
• MEA attestation is mandatory before submission to any foreign embassy.

Step 5: Embassy Attestation

• The final step is attestation from the Embassy or Consulate of the destination country.
• Only after embassy attestation will your certificate be recognized and accepted abroad.

Documents Required for Attestation

To get your Single Status Certificate attestation, you will generally need:

• Original Single Status Certificate
• Valid Passport (original and copy)
• Proof of residence
• Affidavit declaring singlehood
• Passport-size photographs (if requested)

Timeframe for Attestation

The attestation process usually takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the state of application and the embassy’s requirements. Starting early is highly recommended to avoid delays in marriage registration or visa processing.

Professional Help for Attestation

Since the process involves multiple government authorities and embassies, it can be time-consuming and confusing. Professional agencies like Alankit Attestation provide end-to-end support, ensuring your documents are handled correctly and delivered on time.

Conclusion

Getting your Single Status Certificate attestation in India is a mandatory step if you are planning to marry abroad or apply for foreign residency. By following the outlined process, you can ensure your certificate is legally valid and internationally accepted. To make the journey smoother, consider professional assistance from reliable attestation service providers who simplify the process and save you valuable time.