Getting married is an important milestone in life, and in Kenya, it is mandatory to obtain a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (CNIM) before you can legally tie the knot. This document shows that you are free to get married and that there are no legal impediments to your marriage. In this article, we will discuss the CNIM requirements in Kenya and how you can go about obtaining this important document.
What is a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage?
A Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage is a legal document that shows that you are free to get married. This document is issued by the government and is used to prove that you are not married to someone else and that there are no legal impediments to your marriage. The CNIM is also sometimes referred to as a Certificate of No Objection or a Certificate of Freedom to Marry.
The CNIM is an important document that is required in many countries, including Kenya. This document is used to protect the rights of both parties in the marriage and to ensure that the marriage is legal and binding.
Who needs to obtain a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage?
In Kenya, both parties to a marriage are required to obtain a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage before they can legally get married. This means that if you are planning to get married in Kenya, both you and your partner must obtain this document.
To obtain a CNIM, you must be over 18 years of age and not already married. If you have been married before, you must provide evidence that your previous marriage has been legally dissolved.
What are the requirements for obtaining a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage in Kenya?
To obtain a CNIM in Kenya, you will need to provide the following documents:
- A valid passport or ID card
- Proof of age (such as a birth certificate or national ID card)
- Proof of marital status (such as a divorce decree or death certificate if you have been married before)
- A letter from your embassy or high commission confirming that you are free to marry (if you are a foreign national)
You will also need to complete a CNIM application form and pay a fee. The application form can be obtained from the Registrar of Marriages or from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
How do I apply for a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage in Kenya?
To apply for a CNIM in Kenya, you will need to follow these steps:
- Obtain and complete the CNIM application form
- Provide all the necessary documents, including proof of age, marital status, and nationality
- Pay the CNIM application fee
- Submit your application and documents to the Registrar of Marriages or to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Wait for your application to be processed and for your CNIM to be issued
How long does it take to obtain a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage in Kenya?
The processing time for a CNIM in Kenya can vary depending on a number of factors, including the volume of applications and the completeness of your application. In general, it can take several weeks to obtain a CNIM in Kenya, so it is recommended that you apply well in advance of your planned wedding date.
Conclusion
A Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage is an important document that is required in Kenya before you can legally get married. To obtain this document, you will need to provide proof of your age, marital status, and nationality, and pay a fee. The application process can take several weeks, so it is important to apply well in advance of your planned wedding date to avoid any delays.
