If you’re a Kenyan citizen planning to get married abroad, you might need a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage. This certificate proves that you’re legally allowed to marry and have no legal restrictions against it.
The Office of the Registrar of Marriages in Kenya issues this document, which is often required by other countries to validate a marriage.
To get this certificate, you must provide documents like your birth certificate, passport, and proof that you are not already married.
Additionally, the fiancée’s passport copy, a sworn affidavit if documents (such as death or divorce certificates) are more than two years old, and name alignment across all documents are required. Documents must also be verified, either at the Kenyan Embassy, a Notary Public, or at the Registrar of Marriages’ office in Nairobi.
There is a small fee for the application, and you’ll need to include a self-addressed envelope so they can mail the certificate to you once it’s ready.
At Kraido Advocates LLP, we can assist you through this process. Our skilled lawyers can guide you, help with the required paperwork, and make the experience stress-free and a guaranteed success.
Contact us to see how we can help you obtain the certificate you need for an overseas marriage.
What is a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage in Kenya?
For Kenyans wanting to marry abroad, a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage is required since it verifies that you are not currently married in Kenya, making you eligible to marry outside the country.
A Certificate of No Impediment, also known as a Single Status Certificate, is issued by the Office of the Registrar of Marriages.
To apply for this certificate, you will need to provide identification, such as a passport or national ID, along with details about your intended spouse and the country where the marriage will take place.
Please note that this certificate is only valid for six months, so it’s advisable to plan well in advance of your wedding date.
Why Do You Need a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage?
If you are getting married abroad, a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage is essential. It is a legal document showing you are free to marry without legal issues. Without it, your marriage might not be recognized, and there could be complications later.
To get the certificate, go to the Registrar of Marriages on e-Citizen, the Kenyan government’s online service platform, and fill out an application form.
You will need to provide documents like your passport, birth certificate, and a letter from your embassy confirming you can marry.
Since this process can be lengthy, our legal team can help simplify it, ensuring all your paperwork is correct so you can focus on your marriage.
Requirements to Apply for a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage in Kenya
To apply, you must be 18 or older and not closely related to your partner. Required documents include:
- Passport
- Birth certificate
- Passport-sized photos
- Relevant certificates (e.g., death or divorce certificates, if applicable)
How to Get a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage
For Kenyans marrying abroad, the Office of the Registrar of Marriages issues a Certificate of No Impediment. Here is how to apply:
- Gather Required Documents: Collect certified copies of your passport, ID, and other required documents.
- Create an E-Citizen Account: Register and log in to the E-Citizen platform.
- Navigate to Services: Go to the Attorney General’s services and select “Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage.”
- Submit the Application Form: Complete and submit the form, ensuring all details are accurate.
- Pay the Required Fee: Follow the payment instructions on the platform.
- Schedule an Appointment with the Registrar: Book a date to present your original documents.
- Public Display Period: Your application will be displayed for 10 days at the Registrar’s office to allow for any public objections.
- Receive Your Certificate: If there are no objections during the display period, the Registrar will issue your Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage.
Since processing can take time, it is best to apply early. Our law firm can guide you through each step, ensuring a smooth experience and timely marriage.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage in Kenya?
A Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage typically takes about three weeks to process. However, this may vary upwards, so apply well in advance.
Need help? Our team of Lawyers at Kraido Advocates LLP can guide you through the steps to ensure you have everything you need to get your certificate on time.
How Long is the Certificate Valid?
A Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage in Kenya is valid for six months. If it expires, you will need to apply again. Plan your wedding timeline to ensure your certificate is still valid on your wedding day.
Get Help with Your Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage
If you need assistance, Kraido Advocates LLP is here to help. Contact us to learn more about how we can make obtaining your certificate easy.
