Affidavit Requirement for Single Status Application

An affidavit is the most important document required when applying for a Single Status Certificate (also known as Bachelorhood or No Impediment Certificate). It is a sworn declaration confirming that you are legally unmarried and eligible to marry.

For international use, the certificate often requires apostille from the Ministry of External Affairs under the framework of the Hague Apostille Convention.

Understanding affidavit requirements helps avoid rejection or delay.

Why Is an Affidavit Required?

The affidavit serves as:

• Legal declaration of unmarried status

• Confirmation of no existing marriage

• Supporting document for SDM/Home Department verification

Authorities rely on this sworn statement before issuing or authenticating the certificate.

Information to Include in the Affidavit

The affidavit must clearly mention:

• Full name (as per passport)

• Date of birth

• Place of birth

• Passport number

• Current residential address

• Marital status (unmarried/divorced/widowed)

• Declaration of eligibility to marry

• Purpose (marriage abroad)

Incorrect or incomplete details may cause rejection.

Additional Documents Required

Along with affidavit, usually required:

• Passport copy

• Birth certificate

• Address proof

• Passport-size photographs

• Divorce decree (if divorced)

• Death certificate of spouse (if widowed)

Providing accurate supporting documents is important.

Where Should the Affidavit Be Prepared?

You can prepare the affidavit:

If in India:

• On stamp paper

• Notarized by Notary Public

If Abroad:

• Notarized locally

• Or attested at Indian Embassy/Consulate

Ensure the name matches passport exactly.

After Affidavit – What Next?

Once affidavit is ready:

1. Submit for SDM (Sub-Divisional Magistrate) verification

2. Or State Home Department attestation

3. Then proceed for MEA apostille

Each step is mandatory for international acceptance in Hague Convention countries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Name mismatch with passport

• Missing declaration statement

• Not notarizing affidavit properly

• Submitting photocopies instead of originals

• Forgetting divorce decree (if applicable)

Such errors can delay processing.

Important Tip

Some countries require specific wording in the affidavit. Always confirm the destination country format before drafting.

Conclusion

The affidavit is the foundation of a Single Status Certificate application. Proper drafting, notarization, and accurate documentation ensure smooth SDM verification and MEA apostille processing.

NRIWAY assists in affidavit drafting, documentation review, SDM/Home Department coordination, and MEA apostille support to ensure hassle-free marriage documentation abroad.