Getting married in Australia is a wonderful experience that requires careful planning and preparation. One of the most important things for couples planning to get married in Australia is obtaining a Certificate of No Impediment (CNI). In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about obtaining a Certificate of No Impediment in Australia.
What is a Certificate of No Impediment?
A Certificate of No Impediment is a document that proves you are free to marry. In other words, it shows that you are not already married and that there are no legal impediments preventing you from getting married. This document is required by many countries, including Australia, before you can legally get married.
Obtaining a Certificate of No Impediment is a legal requirement in Australia. It is issued by the Australian government and is valid for three months from the date of issue. This means that you must get married within three months of the date the certificate is issued.
Who needs a Certificate of No Impediment?
If you are a foreign national planning to get married in Australia, you will need to obtain a Certificate of No Impediment. This applies to both partners. Australian citizens do not need to obtain a Certificate of No Impediment to get married in Australia.
It is also important to note that if you have been previously divorced, you will need to provide evidence of this before you can obtain a Certificate of No Impediment. This could be a divorce certificate or a decree absolute.
How to obtain a Certificate of No Impediment in Australia
Obtaining a Certificate of No Impediment in Australia is a relatively straightforward process. You will need to visit the nearest Australian embassy, high commission or consulate in your home country and provide the following documents:
- Original birth certificates (or certified copies)
- Passports (or other acceptable forms of identification)
- Divorce certificate or decree absolute (if applicable)
- Proof of address (such as a utility bill or bank statement)
- Proof of citizenship or residency status
Once you have provided these documents, you will need to complete an application form and pay the relevant fee. The application form will ask for details such as your name, date of birth, nationality, and the date and place you intend to get married.
It is important to note that the processing time for a Certificate of No Impediment can vary depending on the embassy or consulate you visit. Therefore, it is advisable to apply for your Certificate of No Impediment well in advance of your wedding date.
Conclusion
Getting married in Australia is a wonderful experience, but it requires careful planning and preparation. Obtaining a Certificate of No Impediment is a legal requirement in Australia for foreign nationals planning to get married. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that you obtain your Certificate of No Impediment in a timely and efficient manner, allowing you to focus on enjoying your special day.
