Process to Obtain a Single Status / Bachelorhood Certificate in India (2026 Guide)

Planning to get married abroad? One document you'll almost certainly need is a Single Status Certificate (also called a Bachelorhood Certificate).
It officially confirms that you are not currently married, and is often required by foreign authorities before they allow marriage registration.
While the process is document-heavy, it's very manageable when you understand each step. Here's a clear, end-to-end guide

What Is a Single Status / Bachelorhood Certificate?

It’s a legally recognized declaration stating that an individual is unmarried. Since India doesn’t issue a standard “single status certificate” by default, it is created through an affidavit + multi-level attestation process.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Affidavit Preparation & Notarization

The process starts with drafting an Affidavit for Single Status that includes:

• Full name and personal details
• Passport information
• Current marital status (declared as unmarried)
• Address details

This affidavit is then notarized by a Notary Public, giving it initial legal validity.

2. Attestation by SDM / State Home Department

Next, the notarized affidavit is submitted for attestation to either:

• SDM (Sub-Divisional Magistrate)
• State Home Department

The exact authority depends on the destination country’s requirements. At this stage:

• The affidavit is verified
• The signature and notary seal are authenticated

3. MEA Attestation (Ministry of External Affairs)

After state-level attestation, the document is submitted to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) for final authentication. Along with the affidavit, you’ll need:

• Passport copy
• Supporting documents (if required)

The MEA verifies:

• All seals and signatures
• Authenticity of prior attestations

Final Acceptance for Use Abroad

Once attested by MEA:

• The document becomes internationally valid
• It is accepted by foreign authorities as proof of unmarried status
• It can be used for marriage registration abroad

Processing Time

The entire process typically takes 7 to 15 working days, depending on:

• Type of attestation required
• Government processing timelines
• Accuracy of documentation

Common Challenges

Applicants often face issues like:

• Incorrect affidavit format
• Confusion between SDM and Home Department attestation
• Delays in MEA processing
• Rejection due to document mismatch