Getting married is a huge milestone in anyone’s life. However, before you can tie the knot, there are a number of legal requirements you must meet. One of these is obtaining a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage. This article will explain what this certificate is, why it is important, and how to apply for one in Kenya.
What is a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage?
A Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage is a document that certifies that you are legally eligible to marry. It is also known as a Single Status Certificate or a No Objection Certificate. This certificate is proof that you are not already married, that you are of legal age to marry, and that there are no legal impediments to your marriage.
If you are planning to get married in Kenya, you will need to obtain a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage. This certificate is issued by the Registrar of Marriages, and it is a legal requirement for both Kenyan citizens and foreigners who wish to get married in Kenya.
Why is a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage important?
A Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage is important because it helps ensure that your marriage is legal and valid. Without this certificate, your marriage may not be recognized by the Kenyan government, and you could face legal issues in the future.
Additionally, some countries require a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage before they will issue a visa or allow you to enter the country as a married couple. So, if you plan to travel abroad after your wedding, you may need this certificate to prove that your marriage is legal.
How to apply for a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage in Kenya
If you are planning to get married in Kenya, you will need to apply for a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage. Here are the steps you need to follow:
Step 1: Gather your documents
Before you can apply for a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage, you will need to gather the following documents:
- Your original birth certificate
- A copy of your passport
- A copy of your Kenyan ID (if you are a Kenyan citizen)
- A copy of your divorce decree (if you have been divorced)
- A copy of your spouse’s death certificate (if you are widowed)
Step 2: Make an appointment with the Registrar of Marriages
Once you have all the required documents, you will need to make an appointment with the Registrar of Marriages. You can do this by visiting the Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government website and filling out an online application form.
Step 3: Attend your appointment
On the day of your appointment, you will need to bring all your original documents with you. The Registrar of Marriages will then review your documents and ask you a few questions to verify your eligibility to marry.
Step 4: Pay the fee
Once the Registrar of Marriages has confirmed that you are eligible to marry, you will need to pay the required fee. The fee for a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage varies depending on your nationality and your marital status.
Step 5: Collect your certificate
After you have paid the fee, you will be issued with a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage. This certificate is valid for 90 days from the date of issue, so make sure you get married within this timeframe.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage is an important part of getting married in Kenya. This certificate helps ensure that your marriage is legal and valid, and it may also be necessary if you plan to travel abroad after your wedding. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can obtain your Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage and start planning your dream wedding.
