Getting married in the USA has certain requirements that need to be met to ensure the legality of the union. One of these requirements is obtaining a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage. This article will provide you with all the information you need to know about this certificate and how to obtain it.
What is a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage?
A Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (CONI) is a legal document that certifies that an individual is free to marry. This document is required by many countries, including the USA, to ensure that there are no legal impediments to the marriage. It is also known as a Single Status Certificate or Certificate of No Record.
The CONI is issued by the embassy or consulate of the country of the applicant’s citizenship. It verifies that the applicant is not currently married and has no legal impediments to getting married. This document is required by many countries before they will issue a marriage license or perform a marriage ceremony.
It is important to note that a CONI is not required in all states in the USA. However, it is recommended that you obtain one to ensure the legality of your marriage.
Who needs a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage?
Anyone who wishes to get married in the USA and is not a US citizen is required to obtain a CONI. This includes individuals who are in the country on a tourist visa or those who are residing in the country temporarily for work or study purposes.
Additionally, some states in the USA require a CONI for anyone who has been divorced or widowed. It is important to check with the local county clerk’s office to determine the requirements for the state where you plan to get married.
How to obtain a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage?
The process for obtaining a CONI varies depending on the embassy or consulate of the applicant’s country of citizenship. However, the general process is as follows:
Step 1: Contact the embassy or consulate of your country of citizenship to determine the requirements for obtaining a CONI.
Step 2: Gather the required documentation. This typically includes a valid passport, proof of single status or divorce decree, and a completed application form.
Step 3: Submit the application and required documentation to the embassy or consulate. Some embassies require an in-person appointment, while others allow for applications to be submitted by mail.
Step 4: Pay the application fee, which varies depending on the embassy or consulate.
Step 5: Wait for the CONI to be issued. This can take several weeks, so it is important to apply well in advance of your wedding date.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage is an important step in ensuring the legality of your marriage in the USA. While the process can be time-consuming, it is necessary to ensure that your marriage is recognized by the country and state where you plan to get married. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can obtain your CONI and proceed with your wedding planning with confidence.
