Can a Pakistani Abroad Get Single Certificate from an Embassy?

A Single Status Certificate (also known as a Celibacy Certificate or Non-Marriage Certificate) is an official document that proves an individual is legally unmarried.

It is often required for:
✔ Marriage abroad (especially in Western countries)
✔ Visa applications (spouse/fiancé visas)
✔ Employment overseas
✔ Legal name change procedures

This guide covers how to obtain a Single Status Certificate in Pakistan, its validity, and key FAQs.

1. What is a Single Status Certificate in Pakistan?

• A government-issued documentconfirming that a person is not currently married.
• Required by foreign embassies, immigration authorities, and marriage registrars abroad.
• Must be attestedby relevant authorities to be legally valid.

2. Where to Obtain a Single Status Certificate in Pakistan?

The process varies by city but generally involves:

Step 1: Visit the Local Union Council/Nadra Office

• For Muslims:Apply at the Union Council or Nadra (some districts issue it via UC).
• For Non-Muslims:Obtain from the Marriage Registrar of their religious community (Church for Christians, etc.).

Step 2: Submit Required Documents

• CNIC (National Identity Card) copy
• Passport-size photographs
• Affidavit of being single (notarized)
• Family Registration Certificate (if required)

Step 3: Verification & Issuance

• The Union Council/Nadra verifies marital status from their records.
• Once confirmed, the Single Status Certificateis issued.

Step 4: Attestation (For International Use)

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) Pakistan– Mandatory attestation.
• Embassy Legalization– If required by the destination country.

3. Validity of Single Status Certificate in Pakistan

• Domestic Use:Usually valid for 6 months.
• International Use:Depends on the country’s requirements (typically 3–6 months).
• Some countries may demand a fresh certificateif the old one expires.

4. Difference Between Single Certificate & Marriage Certificate

5. 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Who needs a Single Status Certificate in Pakistan?

• Individuals marrying abroad, applying for spouse visas, or needing proof of single status for legal purposes.

Q2. Can a divorced person get a Single Status Certificate?

✅ Yes, but they must provide a divorce deed (Talaq Nama/Khula Decree).

Q3. How long does it take to get the certificate?

• Usually 3–7 working days, depending on the Union Council’s process.

Q4. Is Nadra issuing Single Status Certificates now?

• Yes, in some cities, Nadra provides this service alongside the Union Council.

Q5. What if my Union Council refuses to issue the certificate?

• You can file a complaint with the District Commissioner’s officeor obtain a court-issued affidavit.

Q6. Can I get a Single Status Certificate online?

• No, physical verification is required, but some districts allow online applications for processing.

Q7. Do I need a Single Certificate for a second marriage in Pakistan?

• No, but you must declare previous marriages in the Nikah Nama.

Q8. What if I am a widow/widower?

• You must provide the spouse’s death certificateto prove single status.

Q9. Can a Pakistani abroad get this certificate from an embassy?

• No, it must be obtained from Pakistan (Union Council/Nadra) and then attested by MOFA & embassy.

Q10. What’s the cost of a Single Status Certificate?

• Around PKR 1500–20,000, depending on the district and attestation fees.

Conclusion

A Single Status Certificate is essential for Pakistanis marrying or immigrating abroad. The process involves Union Council/Nadra verification, affidavit submission, and MOFA attestation. Ensure you check the validity period based on your destination country’s requirements.

Need help with attestation or legal guidance? Consult a family lawyer or attestation service in Pakistan for smooth processing.