If you are planning to get married outside of the UK, you may be asked to prove you are single. UK citizens getting married in another country normally need to provide documents confirming identity and proof of single status. The authority (town hall, church or wedding venue) should provide advice on the documents they need to see.

There are several documents in the UK that may be suitable. We recommend you check what document you need to provide.

Your options

1. Certificate of No Impediment (CNI)
   • Government-issued. Shows no legal barrier to marriage.
   • Apply via your local register office or a UK embassy/consulate if abroad.
   • It takes about 4 weeks and there’s no fast-track option.
2. Statutory Declaration
   • Sworn statement, signed before a solicitor or Notary Public.
   • You declare you’re single (or divorced/widowed).
   • Often used when a CNI isn’t accepted or available.
3. Other alternatives
   • Some countries ask for a “Letter of No Trace,” especially if you’ve lived abroad.
   • Contact the General Registrars Office (GRO) or National Records Office Scotland.
   • In Commonwealth countries, a simple declaration may substitute a CNI.

Having obtained your document, you may need apostille for this to be accepted overseas.

• Most countries require an apostille to use UK documents abroad.
• The UK Legalisation Office attaches an apostille confirming the document’s authenticity
• If your destination isn’t in the Hague Apostille Convention, you’ll also need embassy and possibly local foreign ministry authentication

Before you apply

• Contact the authority where you’ll marry to check which of these they accept.
• Some countries won’t accept a Statutory Declaration alone. You may need both CNI and statutory declaration.
• If you’re abroad, your nearest UK embassy or consulate can advise on which document may be appropriate.

Conclusion

When planning your wedding in another country, check what documents you need to provide and whether the apostille will need to be attached to the document. With a little careful planning you can travel to your wedding destination with the correct documents and peace of mind.

For a quick apostille service on your single status document do not hesitate to contact us.