Essential Document Checklist for International Marriage

The process of international marriage needs to be handled with care as documentation for it can be tricky. The following checklist is aimed at helping you through the necessary documents for international marriage, which is offered by VOWLY.

Vital Documents for International Marriage

Even though the needs can differ, certain document types are almost universally necessary. These are:

• Identity Verification: Passport, national identity card, and birth certificate.
• Proof of Marital Status: Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (CNIM), affidavit of singlehood, divorce decrees, or death certificates.
• Proof of Legal Capacity: Statement from a legal authority or parental consent (if applicable).
• Proof of Residency/Citizenship: Utility bills, rental agreements, visa, or residence permit.

Legal Purpose of Documents

Individual documents serve a particular legal purpose:

• Passports: They reveal one's identification, citizenship, and travel access.
• Birth Certificates: They provide evidence of identification, age, and parentage.
• Divorce Decrees/Annulment Documents: They serve as evidence to show that one has terminated a marriage legally.
• Death Certificates: They are a way of proving that a marriage was legally terminated due to the death of one spouse.
• Affidavit of Single Status/CNIM: They are written assurance of legal rights for anyone who is thinking of marrying without legal issues.

Legalization and Apostille

"Legalization" or "apostille" are the procedures through which documents are thoroughly and properly authenticated for international usage. If the two countries are signatory members of the Hague Apostille Convention, one "Apostille" certificate suffices. If otherwise, consular legalization must be obtained which involves the verification by the embassy or consulate.

Flawed Parts and Avoiding Them

Couples frequently encounter difficulties in gathering required documents. Here is the solution to avoid such mistakes:

• Inadequate Passport Validity: It is important that your passport is valid for at least six months after your marriage.
• Failed Authentication: Proper verification should be confirmed on all documents through an apostille or consular legalization.
• Name Differences: All names need to be exactly the same as they appear in all documents.
• Outdated Documents: Some documents may have short validity reasons, like medical certificates.

Particular Document Needs

The requirements may change depending on passport and destination. Find out the exact requirements for your selected wedding location.

Language Requirements

Translation of the documents that are written in languages other than the government-approved official healthcare providers language is necessary. Go for certified translations that are admissible in accordance with the law.

Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (CNI)

A certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (CNI) is an official document that certifies there are no legal barriers to your marriage. You can acquire it from the appropriate authority in the country where you reside.

Document Validity

Each document's validity may differ. Some documents, such as birth certificates, may have no validities while others such as police clearances may have the shortest time after which they expire. Always read the validity period of every document.

Alternative Documentation

If you cannot procure a necessary document, you could look for alternative ways. For example, an affidavit may be accepted instead of a birth certificate in some cases.

Registering an International Marriage

Once you have tied the knot, make sure you are registered in your partner's home country as well. You will need to check with the relevant authorities as requirements differ.

Steps to be Taken

Getting all the required documents for international marriage can be tricky but VOWLY is here to sort it all out. Today, be a part of our marriage journey and choose the best country with the help of VOWLY!