What Is an Affidavit of Single Status?

An Affidavit of Single Status is a sworn legal document in which an individual declares that they are currently unmarried and legally free to marry.

The affidavit is signed in front of a notary public or commissioner for taking affidavits. By signing the document, you are swearing or affirming that the information provided is true.

Many foreign governments require this document before they will:

• issue a marriage licence,

• approve a marriage registration,

• or permit the marriage ceremony to proceed.

Why Do Foreign Countries Require This Document?

Unlike some countries, Canada does not maintain a centralized public registry confirming whether a person is single or legally eligible to marry. Because of this, foreign governments often require Canadians to provide sworn documentation confirming their marital status.

The purpose of the affidavit is to confirm that there are no legal obstacles preventing the marriage.

Does Canada Issue a Certificate of Non-Impediment to Marriage?

This is one of the most common points of confusion for Canadians getting married overseas.

Some countries request a document called a “Certificate of Non-Impediment to Marriage,” which is issued by certain governments to confirm that a person is free to marry.

However, Canada does not issue Certificates of Non-Impediment.

Instead, Canada issues a document called a “Statement in Lieu of Certificate of Non-Impediment to Marriage Abroad.”

This document simply confirms that Canada does not issue such certificates. It does not confirm your marital status or state whether you are legally eligible to marry.

Because of this, many foreign authorities will additionally request an Affidavit of Single Status sworn before a notary public or commissioner.

What Information Is Typically Included?

A Single Status Affidavit will usually include:

• your full legal name,

• date of birth,

• address,

• citizenship,

• current marital status,

• and a statement confirming that there is no legal impediment to your marriage.

If you were previously married, you may also need to provide supporting documents such as:

• a divorce certificate,

• judgment of divorce,

• separation documentation,

• or a spouse’s death certificate.

Requirements vary depending on the destination country and local marriage authority.

Countries That Commonly Request Single Status Affidavits

This type of document is frequently requested for marriages taking place in:

• Mexico

• Dominican Republic

• Cuba

• Italy

• Portugal

• Philippines

• Thailand

• Vietnam

• India

• Colombia

• Brazil

It is always best to confirm the exact requirements with the local marriage office, embassy, consulate, or wedding coordinator before your appointment.

Do I Need a Notary Public or Commissioner?

Foreign authorities typically require the affidavit to be sworn before a notary public or commissioner for taking affidavits.

The notary or commissioner:

• verifies your identity,

• witnesses your signature,

• and administers the oath or affirmation.

It is important to understand that the notary does not independently investigate or verify your marital status. You are personally swearing or affirming that the contents of the affidavit are true.

Will the Document Need Authentication, Apostille, or Legalization?

Possibly.

Depending on the country where the marriage will take place, the document may require:

1. notarization,

2. authentication or apostille,

3. and/or legalization by the destination country’s embassy or consulate.

Since Canada joined the Apostille Convention in 2024, many countries now accept apostilles instead of embassy legalization. However, requirements still vary significantly between countries.

Some jurisdictions may also require:

• certified translations,

• additional supporting documents,

• or specific wording within the affidavit.

Before preparing your documents, it is important to confirm:

• whether an apostille is required,

• whether legalization is necessary,

• and whether the foreign authority has its own required template or format.

What Should You Bring to Your Appointment?

To help ensure a smooth notarization appointment, bring:

• valid government-issued photo ID,

• any template or instructions provided by the foreign authority,

• divorce or death certificates if applicable,

• and any supporting documents requested by the destination country.

If you do not already have a template, we may be able to assist with preparing a general Affidavit of Single Status based on your circumstances.

We also assist with:

• statutory declarations,

• certified true copies,

• consent to travel letters,

• and commissioner services.

Before your appointment, we recommend confirming all requirements directly with the country where the marriage will take place to ensure the documents meet their specific standards.

Book online today to complete your affidavit: https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/booking-calendar/affidavit-commissioning