How to Get a Single Status or Unmarried Certificate in India: Complete 2026 Guide

     Written by: Mitali More  | Edited by: Rohidas Kadu 

Reviewed by: Professional Attestation & Apostille Consultants team of PEC Attestation

What is a Single Status Certificate? 

A Single Status Certificate (also known as a Bachelorhood Certificate, Unmarried Certificate, or No Impediment Certificate) is a legal affidavit that officially confirms your marital status as unmarried or single. It's a self-sworn statement declaring that you are not married and are legally eligible to marry.

Key Points About Single Status Certificates:

• Not an official government document - It's a notarized affidavit, not issued by any specific government authority
• Self-declaration - You declare your unmarried status under oath
• Legally binding - Once notarized and attested, it becomes a legal document
• International validity - Can be used abroad after MEA apostille/attestation
• Domestic use - Not required within India for marriage registration

Alternative Names:

• Bachelorhood Certificate
• Certificate of No Marriage Record (CENOMAR)
• Unmarried Certificate
• Celibacy Certificate
• No Impediment Certificate
• Singlehood Affidavit

Why You Need a Single Status Certificate

Primary Uses:

1. Marriage Abroad

• Required by most countries to marry a foreign national
• Prevents polygamy and illegal marriages
• Mandatory for solemnizing marriage outside India

2. Spousal/Fiancé Visa Applications

• Essential for K-1 fiancé visas (USA)
• Required for spouse visa applications (UK, Canada, Australia)
• Needed for family reunification programs

3. International Marriage Registration

• Registering a foreign marriage in India
• Legalizing marriage conducted abroad
• Updating marital status in Indian records

4. Immigration & Relocation

• Spousal visa applications
• Family visa sponsorships
• Permanent residency applications

5. Legal & Administrative Purposes

• Inheritance and succession matters
• Property rights and ownership
• Adoption procedures
• Guardianship cases

6. Employment & Professional Requirements

• Some international job transfers require marital status proof
• Certain visa categories demand it
• Professional licensing in some countries

Who Needs It?

✓ Unmarried individuals planning to marry abroad
✓ Divorced persons (after divorce decree finalized)
✓ Widows/widowers
✓ NRIs and expats
✓ Indian citizens marrying foreigners
✓ Anyone applying for spousal visas

Eligibility Requirements 

Who Can Apply?

You are eligible to obtain a Single Status Certificate if:

1. You are unmarried - Never been married
2. You are divorced - Divorce decree has been finalized (not pending)
3. You are widowed - Spouse has passed away
4. You are an Indian citizen - Residing in India or abroad
5. You have valid identity proof - Aadhaar, Passport, or PAN
6. You have proof of residence - In your jurisdiction

Who CANNOT Apply?

✗ Married individuals (unless divorce is finalized)
✗ Persons with pending divorce cases
✗ Those without valid identity proof
✗ Individuals with false declarations (legal consequences)

Important Legal Note:

Making false declarations in the affidavit is a criminal offense under the Indian Penal Code and can result in:

• Criminal prosecution
• Imprisonment
• Heavy fines
• Visa cancellation
• Immigration ban

Required Documents 

Essential Documents (Must Have):

1. Identity Proof (Choose One)

• Aadhaar Card (front & back copy)
• Passport (first & last page copy)
• PAN Card
• Voter ID
• Driving License

2. Address Proof (Choose One)

• Utility bills (electricity, water, gas - recent)
• Ration card
• Rent agreement
• Property deed
• Passport (if current address is mentioned)
• Bank statement

3. Date of Birth Proof (Choose One)

• Birth certificate
• 10th class mark sheet
• Passport
• Aadhaar card

4. Passport-Size Photographs

• 2-4 recent color photographs
• 4x6 cm or 2x2 inches
• White background
• Clear face visible

5. Affidavit

• Single Status Affidavit (notarized)
• Prepared on ₹100 stamp paper
• Signed by notary public

Additional Documents (If Applicable):

For Divorced Persons:

• Divorce decree (certified copy)
• Court order finalizing divorce
• Marriage certificate (original or certified copy)

For Widows/Widowers:

• Death certificate of spouse
• Marriage certificate
• Proof of widowhood

For NRIs/Expats:

• Passport copy
• Visa/residence permit copy
• Proof of current address abroad
• Power of Attorney (if applying through representative)

For Those with Name Changes:

• Gazette notification
• Court order
• Deed poll document

Document Preparation Tips:

✓ Self-attest all photocopies - Sign and date each copy
✓ Get certified copies - From notary or government office
✓ Keep originals - For verification purposes
✓ Use recent documents - Preferably issued within last 6 months
✓ Ensure clarity - All documents should be legible

Step-by-Step Process to Get Single Status Certificate 

Method 1: Online Application (Recommended for 2026)

Step 1: Prepare Your Affidavit

1. Download the Single Status Affidavit template from your state's e-governance portal
2. Fill in your personal details:

   - Full name (as per Aadhaar/Passport)

   - Date of birth

   - Father's name

   - Mother's name

   - Current address

   - Permanent address

3. Write the declaration: "I hereby solemnly affirm that I am unmarried and have never been married"
4. Print on ₹100 stamp paper (available at stamp vendors)
5. Sign and date the affidavit

Step 2: Get Notarization

1. Visit a notary public in your area
2. Bring original affidavit and identity proof
3. Notary will:

   - Verify your identity

   - Witness your signature

   - Affix notary seal

   - Provide notarized copy

4. Cost: ₹100-500 (varies by location)
5. Time: 15-30 minutes

Step 3: Access State E-Governance Portal

Visit your state's official e-governance portal:

Andhra Pradesh: https://egov.ap.gov.in/

Assam: https://assam.gov.in/

Bihar: https://state.bihar.gov.in/

Delhi: https://delhi.gov.in/

Gujarat: https://www.gujgov.in/

Goa: https://goa.gov.in/

Karnataka: https://www.karnataka.gov.in/

Kerala: https://www.kerala.gov.in/

Maharashtra: https://www.maharashtra.gov.in/

Punjab: https://punjab.gov.in/

Rajasthan: https://rajasthan.gov.in/

Tamil Nadu: https://www.tn.gov.in/

Telangana: https://telangana.gov.in/

Uttar Pradesh: https://up.gov.in/

West Bengal: https://www.wbgov.in/

Step 4: Fill Online Application Form

1. Create account on state portal (if not already done)
2. Login with credentials
3. Search for "Single Status Certificate" or "Unmarried Certificate"
4. Click "Apply Now"
5. Fill the online form with:

   - Personal details

   - Contact information

   - Address details

   - Reason for certificate

6. Upload scanned documents:

   - Notarized affidavit

   - Identity proof

   - Address proof

   - Date of birth proof

   - Passport photos

7. Review all information for accuracy
8. Submit application

Step 5: Pay Application Fee

1. Online payment options:

   - Credit/Debit card

   - Net banking

   - UPI

   - Digital wallet

2. Typical fee: ₹100-500 (varies by state)
3. Keep payment receipt/reference number
4. You'll receive confirmation email

 

Step 6: Track Application Status

1. Login to portal with reference number
2. Check status:

   - Application received

   - Under verification

   - Approved

   - Ready for collection

3. Receive SMS/email notifications
4. Processing time: 7-15 working days

Step 7: Collect Certificate

1. Download from portal (if digital certificate available)
2. Or collect from SDM office:

   - Bring reference number

   - Bring identity proof

   - Collect original certificate

3. Verify all details are correct
4. Keep safe copy

Method 2: Offline Application (Traditional)

Step 1-2: Prepare & Notarize Affidavit

(Same as online method)

Step 3: Visit SDM Office

1. Locate your local SDM (Sub-Divisional Magistrate) office
2. Bring all required documents
3. Submit application form (available at office)
4. Submit notarized affidavit
5. Pay application fee (₹100-500)

Step 4: Verification Process

1. SDM office verifies documents
2. May conduct background check
3. May request additional information
4. Processing time: 7-15 working days

Step 5: Collect Certificate

1. Receive notification when ready
2. Visit SDM office with reference number
3. Collect original certificate
4. Verify details

Method 3: Through Professional Service Providers

For Those Who Prefer Assistance:

Advantages:

• Complete documentation handling
• Faster processing
• Expert guidance
• Apostille services available
• Courier delivery option

Process:

1. Contact certified service provider
2. Submit documents (online or in-person)
3. Provider prepares affidavit
4. Provider handles notarization
5. Provider submits to SDM
6. Provider obtains MEA apostille (if needed)
7. Receive certificate by courier

Cost: ₹6,000-12,000 (including all services)
Time: 5-8 working days

Recommended Providers:

• NRIWAY
• Secure Apostille Services
• India for NRI
• Manav Consultants
• Local notary services

Processing Timeline & Costs 

Processing Timeline Breakdown

Online Application:

Affidavit Preparation:        1-2 days

Notarization:                 1 day

Online Submission:            1 day

SDM Verification:             5-10 days

Certificate Issuance:         1-2 days

─────────────────────────────────────

TOTAL:                        7-15 working days

 

Offline Application:

Affidavit Preparation:        1-2 days

Notarization:                 1 day

SDM Office Submission:        1 day

SDM Verification:             5-10 days

Certificate Collection:       1-2 days

─────────────────────────────────────

TOTAL:                        7-15 working days

 

With Professional Service:

Document Collection:          1-2 days

Affidavit Preparation:        1 day

Notarization:                 1 day

SDM Submission:               1 day

SDM Verification:             3-5 days

Certificate Delivery:         1-2 days

─────────────────────────────────────

TOTAL:                        5-8 working days

 

Cost Breakdown (2026)

Domestic Certificate (India Use Only):

Component	Cost
Stamp Paper (₹100)	₹100
Notarization	₹100-500
SDM Application Fee	₹100-500
Online Portal Fee	₹0-200
Total	₹300-1,300

International Certificate (With MEA Apostille):

Component	Cost
Domestic Certificate	₹300-1,300
MEA Apostille	₹500-1,000
Courier/Delivery	₹200-500
Total	₹1,000-2,800

With Professional Service Provider:

Component	Cost
Service Provider Fee	₹3,000-5,000
Notarization	₹500-1,000
SDM Attestation	₹1,000-2,000
MEA Apostille	₹1,000-2,000
Courier Delivery	₹500-1,000
Total	₹6,000-12,000

Factors Affecting Processing Time:

Faster Processing: ✓ Complete documentation
✓ No discrepancies
✓ Online application
✓ Low application volume
✓ Clear identity proof

Slower Processing: ✗ Missing documents
✗ Errors in application
✗ Background verification needed
✗ High application volume
✗ Pending divorce/legal cases

Validity & International Use 

Validity Period

Domestic Use (Within India):

• Validity: Indefinite (no expiration)
• Use: Marriage registration, legal documents
• Note: No time limit for domestic purposes

International Use (Abroad):

• Apostille Validity: 6 months (per MEA rules)
• Practical Validity: 3-6 months (country-specific)
• Recommendation: Obtain fresh certificate within 3 months of use

Why 6-Month Validity?

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) considers apostilled documents valid for 6 months because:

1. Marital status can change (marriage, divorce)
2. Prevents use of outdated information
3. Ensures current legal status
4. International standard practice
5. Protects against fraud

International Acceptance

Countries Accepting Single Status Certificate:

Tier 1 (Widely Accepted):

• USA (K-1 fiancé visa, spousal visa)
• UK (Spouse visa, family visa)
• Canada (Spousal sponsorship)
• Australia (Partner visa)
• New Zealand (Partner visa)
• Germany (Spouse visa)
• France (Spouse visa)
• Italy (Marriage registration)
• Spain (Marriage registration)
• UAE (Marriage registration)

Tier 2 (Conditional Acceptance):

• Thailand (Marriage registration)
• Malaysia (Marriage registration)
• Singapore (Marriage registration)
• Philippines (Marriage registration)
• Indonesia (Marriage registration)

Tier 3 (Specific Requirements):

• Japan (May require additional documents)
• South Korea (May require additional documents)
• China (May require additional documents)

MEA Apostille Process

What is Apostille?

• International certification of document authenticity
• Issued by Ministry of External Affairs
• Recognized in 180+ countries (Hague Convention)
• Adds official seal to document

How to Get MEA Apostille:

Online (Recommended):

1. Visit MEA Apostille Portal: https://apostille.mea.gov.in/
2. Register account
3. Upload notarized certificate
4. Pay fee (₹500-1,000)
5. Receive apostille within 5-7 days
6. Download or collect

Offline:

1. Visit MEA office (Delhi)
2. Submit original certificate
3. Pay fee
4. Collect apostille (same day or next day)

Through Service Provider:

1. Provider handles entire process
2. Faster turnaround
3. Courier delivery available
4. Cost: ₹1,000-2,000

Common FAQs

General Questions

Q1: Is Single Status Certificate required in India for marriage?

A: No. Single Status Certificate is NOT required for marriage within India. It's only needed for:

• Marrying abroad
• Marrying a foreigner
• International visa applications
• Legal procedures abroad

Q2: What's the difference between Single Status Certificate and Marriage Certificate?

A:

• Single Status Certificate: Proves you are unmarried (before marriage)
• Marriage Certificate: Proves you are married (after marriage)

Q3: Can I get a Single Status Certificate if I'm divorced?

A: Yes, but ONLY if your divorce decree has been finalized. If divorce is pending, you cannot get it.

Q4: Can I get a Single Status Certificate if I have a child out of wedlock?

A: Yes. The certificate only verifies marital status, not whether you have children.

Q5: How long is a Single Status Certificate valid? A:

• Domestic use: Indefinite
• International use: 6 months (apostille validity)
• Practical use: 3-6 months (country-specific)

Application Process Questions

Q6: Can I apply online or do I need to visit the office?

A: Both options available:

• Online: Through state e-governance portal (recommended)
• Offline: Visit SDM office directly

Q7: How long does it take to get the certificate?

A: Typically 7-15 working days from submission

Q8: Can someone else apply on my behalf?

A: Yes, with Power of Attorney:

1. Create Power of Attorney document
2. Get it notarized
3. Authorize representative
4. Representative can apply with POA

Q9: What if I made an error in my application?

A: Contact SDM office immediately:

1. Request correction
2. Provide corrected documents
3. May require resubmission
4. Processing time may increase

Q10: Can I get an expedited certificate?

A: Not officially, but:

• Online application is faster
• Professional services can expedite
• Some states offer priority processing
• Cost may be higher

Document Questions

Q11: What if I don't have an Aadhaar card?

A: Use alternative identity proof:

• Passport
• PAN Card
• Voter ID
• Driving License

Q12: Can I use a photocopy of my passport?

A: Yes, but:

• Must be self-attested
• Should be recent
• Both sides required
• Notary may verify original

Q13: What if my address has changed?

A: Provide:

• Current address proof
• Previous address proof (if recent)
• Address change document (if available)

Q14: Do I need my parents' declaration?

A: Optional, but some SDM offices request it:

• Notarized declaration from parents
• Confirming your unmarried status
• Signed by both parents

International Use Questions

Q15: Do I need MEA apostille for all countries?

A: Not all, but most countries require it:

• Check with destination country
• Check with embassy/consulate
• Professional service can advise

Q16: Can Indian Embassy abroad issue the certificate?

A: No. Embassies cannot issue it:

• Must be obtained from India
• Embassy can notarize documents
• But cannot issue certificate itself

Q17: How do I get embassy-specific attestation?

A: Process:

1. Get MEA apostille first
2. Submit to relevant embassy
3. Embassy adds their attestation
4. Cost: ₹500-2,000 per embassy

Q18: What if my certificate is rejected abroad?

A: Reasons and solutions:

• Outdated: Get fresh certificate
• Incomplete: Add missing documents
• Wrong format: Resubmit with apostille
• Discrepancies: Correct and resubmit

Special Situations

Q19: I'm a widow/widower. Can I get the certificate?

A: Yes:

• Provide death certificate of spouse
• Provide marriage certificate
• Proof of widowhood
• Process is same

Q20: My divorce case is pending. Can I get the certificate?

A: No. You must wait until:

• Divorce decree is finalized
• Court order is issued
• Divorce is legally complete
• Then apply for certificate

Expert Tips & Recommendations 

Pro Tips for 2026

1. Choose Online Application

• Faster processing
• Less paperwork
• Real-time tracking
• Digital record
• Recommended for 2026

2. Prepare Documents in Advance

• Gather all documents before applying
• Get certified copies
• Self-attest photocopies
• Saves time and delays

3. Use Correct Affidavit Format

• Download from official state portal
• Don't use generic templates
• Ensure all details match Aadhaar/Passport
• Get notarized correctly

4. Keep Multiple Copies

• Original certificate
• Certified copies (5-10)
• Digital scans
• Apostille copies
• Useful for multiple applications

5. Plan Ahead for International Use

• Apply 2-3 months before need
• Get MEA apostille immediately
• Consider embassy attestation
• Allow buffer time

6. Use Professional Services If:

• You're abroad and cannot visit
• You need expedited processing
• You need apostille/embassy attestation
• You're unsure about process
• You want hassle-free experience

7. Verify All Details

• Check certificate for errors
• Verify spelling of name
• Confirm date of birth
• Ensure all signatures present
• Report errors immediately

8. Keep Safe Records

• Store original in safe place
• Keep digital copies
• Backup in cloud storage
• Maintain certified copies
• Keep MEA apostille safe

9. Update When Needed

• If marital status changes
• If name changes
• If address changes
• Get fresh certificate if needed

10. Seek Professional Advice

• For complex situations
• For international use
• For visa applications
• For legal matters
• Consult immigration lawyer if needed

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Mistake 1: Using outdated affidavit format ✓ Solution: Download latest format from state portal

❌ Mistake 2: Incomplete documentation ✓ Solution: Prepare all documents before applying

❌ Mistake 3: Errors in personal details ✓ Solution: Verify all information matches official documents

❌ Mistake 4: Not getting notarized properly ✓ Solution: Use certified notary public

❌ Mistake 5: Applying while divorce is pending ✓ Solution: Wait for divorce decree finalization

❌ Mistake 6: Not getting MEA apostille for international use ✓ Solution: Always get apostille for abroad use

❌ Mistake 7: Using expired certificate abroad ✓ Solution: Get fresh certificate within 3-6 months

❌ Mistake 8: Not keeping backup copies ✓ Solution: Maintain multiple certified copies

❌ Mistake 9: Ignoring country-specific requirements ✓ Solution: Check destination country requirements

❌ Mistake 10: Making false declarations ✓ Solution: Be truthful - legal consequences are severe

Conclusion

Getting a Single Status Certificate in India in 2026 is straightforward if you follow the proper process:

1. Prepare your affidavit with correct information
2. Get it notarized by certified notary public
3. Apply online through state e-governance portal
4. Submit required documents completely
5. Track your application online
6. Collect certificate when ready
7. Get MEA apostille if needed for international use

Key Takeaways:

• Process takes 7-15 working days
• Cost is ₹300-1,300 for domestic use
• Online application is fastest method
• Professional services available for ₹6,000-12,000
• Valid for 6 months internationally
• Essential for marrying abroad or visa applications

For 2026 and Beyond:

• Prefer online applications
• Use state e-governance portals
• Keep digital backups
• Plan ahead for international use
• Seek professional help if needed

Additional Resources

Official Government Links:

• Ministry of External Affairs: https://www.mea.gov.in/
• MEA Apostille Portal: https://apostille.mea.gov.in/
• National Portal of India: https://www.india.gov.in/

Recommended Service Providers:

• NRIWAY (https://nriway.com/))
• Secure Apostille Services (https://apostilleservice.co.in/))
• India for NRI (https://indiafornri.com/))
• Manav Consultants (https://manavconsultants.com/))

State E-Governance Portals:

• All state portals listed in the table above
• Search "[Your State] e-governance portal"
• Look for "Single Status Certificate" service