If you are planning to get married abroad, you might be asked to provide a document called “Certificate of No Impediment” or “CNI”. This is a legal document that proves you are free to marry and that there is no legal impediment to your marriage. In the UK, this document is issued by the General Register Office (GRO).
What is the General Register Office?
The General Register Office is a government agency that is responsible for keeping records of births, deaths, marriages, and civil partnerships in England and Wales. It was established in 1837 and is part of the UK government’s Home Office. The GRO issues certificates and other legal documents related to these events.
What is a Certificate of No Impediment?
A Certificate of No Impediment is a legal document that confirms that you are free to marry, and that there is no legal impediment to your marriage. It is also known as a “Certificate of Freedom to Marry”. This document is required by some foreign authorities before they will allow you to marry in their country.
To obtain a Certificate of No Impediment, you must make an appointment with your local register office. You will need to provide proof of identity, nationality, and address, as well as evidence that you are free to marry. This might include evidence of divorce or the death of a previous spouse.
Why do I need a Certificate of No Impediment?
If you are planning to get married abroad, you may need to provide a Certificate of No Impediment as proof that you are free to marry. This is a legal requirement in some countries, and failure to provide this document could result in your marriage not being recognised.
You may also need a Certificate of No Impediment if you are planning to get married in the UK but one or both of you are from another country. Some foreign authorities may require this document before they will allow you to marry in their country.
How long does it take to get a Certificate of No Impediment?
The time it takes to get a Certificate of No Impediment can vary depending on your circumstances. In general, you should allow at least a month for the process to be completed. You will need to make an appointment with your local register office and provide all the necessary documents.
The register office will then post a notice of your intention to marry on its public notice board for 28 days. This is to give anyone the opportunity to raise any objections to the marriage. If no objections are received, you will be issued with a Certificate of No Impediment.
How much does it cost to get a Certificate of No Impediment?
The cost of a Certificate of No Impediment can vary depending on where you live and the register office you use. In general, you should expect to pay around £35-£50 for this document. You may also need to pay additional fees for any copies or translations that you require.
Conclusion
If you are planning to get married abroad, a Certificate of No Impediment is an essential document. This legal document confirms that you are free to marry and that there is no legal impediment to your marriage. To obtain this document, you will need to make an appointment with your local register office and provide all the necessary documents. Allow at least a month for the process to be completed and be prepared to pay a fee.
