Marriage is one of the most important events in a person’s life. It’s a union of two individuals who are committed to spending their lives together. However, there are certain legal requirements that must be met before getting married. One such requirement is obtaining a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage or CNIM. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about CNIM in India.
What is a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage?
Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage, also known as CNIM, is a legal document that confirms that there are no legal impediments to the proposed marriage. The document certifies that the person is not already married, or that they are not closely related to their proposed spouse. The certificate is required for couples who wish to marry outside their country of residence.
The CNIM is issued by the competent authority of the country where the applicant resides. In India, it is issued by the Regional Passport Office (RPO) under the Ministry of External Affairs.
Who Needs a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage?
Any person who wishes to get married in a foreign country needs a CNIM. It is also required if one of the spouses is a foreign national. The certificate is essential to ensure that the marriage is legal and valid in the foreign country.
How to Apply for a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage?
The process of obtaining a CNIM in India is straightforward. You need to follow the below-mentioned steps:
- Download the ‘Declaration of Marital Status’ form from the official website of the Ministry of External Affairs.
- Fill in the form with all the relevant details.
- Submit the form along with supporting documents to the Regional Passport Office (RPO).
- Pay the required fee.
- Collect the certificate from the RPO once it is issued.
What are the Documents Required to Obtain a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage?
To obtain a CNIM in India, you need to submit the following documents:
- A copy of your passport.
- A copy of your birth certificate.
- A copy of your divorce decree (if any).
- A copy of your spouse’s death certificate (if widowed).
- Two passport-size photographs.
- Proof of residence.
All these documents must be attested by a Gazetted Officer or a Notary Public.
How Much Does a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage Cost?
The fee for obtaining a CNIM in India varies depending on the state. However, it usually ranges between INR 500-1000.
What is the Validity of a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage?
The validity of a CNIM in India is six months from the date of issue.
Conclusion
Getting married is an important event in your life, and you want everything to be perfect. To ensure that your marriage is legal and valid in the foreign country, you need to obtain a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage. The process of obtaining a CNIM in India is simple, and with the right documents, you can get it without any hassle.
