Planning a wedding abroad is exciting, but the paperwork can be confusing. Many countries want proof that you are legally free to marry. Canada doesn’t issue a single universal “certificate of no impediment,” so some foreign authorities accept or require a statutory declaration of single status, a sworn statement of your marital status.
What it usually states
- your full name, date and place of birth and address;
- your current marital status (for example, never married, divorced or widowed);
- details of any previous marriage and how it ended, if applicable;
- that you know of no legal reason why you cannot marry.
Check the destination’s requirements first
Requirements vary widely. Before you book, confirm with the foreign authority, embassy or wedding officiant:
- whether they accept a statutory declaration, and whether there is a specific form;
- what supporting documents they need (for example, a divorce certificate or a criminal record check);
- whether the declaration must be apostilled or authenticated and legalized;
- whether a translation is required.
At your appointment
Bring the declaration unsigned and valid photo ID. We will administer the declaration, witness your signature and apply our stamp or notarial certificate. If it’s going abroad, we can prepare it in a form suitable for apostille or authentication.
You may also find this helpful
Getting married in Morocco? Our post on apostilling your RCMP certificate for a Moroccan marriage covers another common step.
Related reading
- Apostille for your RCMP certificate: marriage in Morocco
- What documents can be apostilled in Canada?
- Documents for countries that don’t accept apostilles
- What is a statutory declaration?
- Free template: Statutory Declaration
Book with Crown Seal Notary
Crown Seal Notary serves Hamilton and the surrounding area seven days a week. In-office appointments are available at 21 King St W, 5th Floor, and our mobile service comes to your home, workplace, hospital or care home. To book, call 289-207-0851, email info@csnotary.org, or book online. You can also browse all of our services or read our FAQs.
Please note: Crown Seal Notary provides notarization and commissioning services only. We do not provide legal, immigration or financial advice, and we cannot tell you what to write in your document. If you are unsure which document you need, please check with the organization that asked for it or speak with a lawyer or licensed paralegal.
