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 document confirming that a person is not currently married.

·         Required by foreign embassies, immigration authorities, and marriage registrars abroad.

·         Must be attested by 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 Certificate is 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 certificate if 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 office or 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 certificate to 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 15000–20,000, 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.