Marriage is a significant event that many people look forward to in their lives. It is a union between two individuals who love and respect each other. To make it official, a certificate of marriage is required. However, before obtaining this certificate, couples may need to obtain a certificate of no impediment to marriage. In this article, we will define what a certificate of no impediment to marriage is, its importance, and how to obtain one in Indonesia.
What is a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage?
A certificate of no impediment to marriage, also known as a certificate of freedom to marry, is a legal document issued by the government or authorized entity that proves that an individual is free to marry and has no legal obstructions or impediments that would prevent them from being able to enter into a marriage contract.
This certificate is required in some countries before a couple can obtain a marriage certificate. It is usually issued by the embassy or consulate of the country where one of the parties intends to get married. This document serves as evidence that the couple meets the legal requirements to get married and that there are no legal impediments to prevent them from doing so.
Why is a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage Important?
A certificate of no impediment to marriage is essential as it is one of the requirements for getting married legally. Without this document, a couple cannot obtain a marriage certificate. The certificate proves that both parties are eligible to get married and that there are no legal impediments that would prevent them from doing so.
For example, suppose one of the parties is already married or has not reached the legal age of marriage. In that case, they cannot obtain the certificate of no impediment to marriage, which means they cannot get married legally.
The certificate of no impediment to marriage is also crucial in preventing forced marriages or marriages that are not entered into willingly. It ensures that both parties are entering into the marriage contract of their own free will and are not being coerced or forced into marrying someone against their will.
How to Obtain a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage in Indonesia?
In Indonesia, to obtain a certificate of no impediment to marriage, both parties must be present physically at the Civil Registry Office (Dinas Kependudukan dan Pencatatan Sipil) or the Consulate or Embassy of the country where the marriage will take place. The following are the steps to be followed:
Step 1: Get all the required documents ready
The following documents are required:
- Passport or other valid identification document
- Birth certificate
- Civil status certificate
- Divorce certificate (if applicable)
- Death certificate (if applicable)
- Two witnesses with their valid identification documents (Indonesian citizens)
Step 2: Submit the documents to the Civil Registry Office or Consulate/Embassy
The Civil Registry Office or Consulate/Embassy will review the documents submitted and verify the information provided. If everything is in order, the application will be approved, and a certificate of no impediment to marriage will be issued.
The process usually takes approximately three to five working days. The certificate of no impediment to marriage is usually valid for six months from the date of issuance.
Conclusion
A certificate of no impediment to marriage is a crucial document required before obtaining a marriage certificate. It proves that both parties are eligible to get married and that there are no legal impediments that would prevent them from doing so. In Indonesia, both parties must be present physically at the Civil Registry Office or the Consulate/Embassy of the country where the marriage will take place. By following the above steps, couples can obtain the certificate of no impediment to marriage and proceed with their wedding plans.
