Single-status certificate to marry abroad

The single-status certificate (also called a “certificate of no impediment” or “single status affidavit”) declares that a person is not married and is therefore free to marry. Many countries require it from U.S. citizens who wish to marry there.certificado de soltería (también llamado «certificado de capacidad matrimonial» o «single status affidavit») declara que una persona no está casada y, por tanto, es libre para contraer matrimonio. Muchos países lo exigen a los ciudadanos estadounidenses que quieren casarse allí.

How is it prepared in the U.S.?

In the United States there is no national civil-status registry, so this document is usually drafted as a sworn statement signed before a notary. Once notarized, it is apostilled in the state where the notarization took place.

Typical steps

1. Draft the single-status statement with your details.
2. Sign it before a notary.
3. Apostille the notarized document in the corresponding state.
4. If the country requires it, coordinate a certified translation.

What to check based on the country

• Some countries require a recent date (for example, issued within the last 3 or 6 months).
• A specific format or wording may be required.
• A translation into the local language is almost always needed.

Because requirements vary by the country where you will marry, confirm the validity window and format before signing and apostilling.