What is a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (CNI)?
A Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (CNI) is a legal document that certifies that a person is free to marry. This document is required in most countries before a couple can get married. It is also known as a Certificate of Freedom to Marry or a Single Status Certificate.
In Kenya, the CNI is issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade. It is a mandatory requirement for anyone who wants to get married outside the country. The certificate is issued to Kenyan citizens who are single, divorced, or widowed.
Why is a CNI required?
A CNI is required to ensure that the person getting married is not already married to someone else. It also confirms that the person is of legal age to marry, is mentally sound, and has not been prohibited by law from getting married.
The CNI is required by foreign countries as proof that the person is legally eligible to get married. This is especially important for immigrants who want to get married in their new country of residence.
How to Apply for a CNI in Kenya
The process of getting a CNI in Kenya is relatively straightforward. Here are the steps involved:
- Step 1: Visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in Nairobi
- Step 2: Complete the application form and attach the required documents, including a copy of your national ID card or passport, birth certificate, and proof of marital status (e.g., divorce certificate or death certificate of your former spouse)
- Step 3: Pay the prescribed fee
- Step 4: Await the processing of your application
- Step 5: Collect your CNI from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
The processing time for a CNI in Kenya is usually between 3 to 5 days, depending on the workload at the Ministry.
What You Need to Know About the CNI in Kenya
Here are some important things to keep in mind when applying for a CNI in Kenya:
- The CNI is valid for 6 months from the date of issue
- You must apply for the CNI in person
- If you are applying for a CNI as a divorced person, you must wait for at least 6 months after the divorce before applying for the certificate
- If you are applying for a CNI as a widow or widower, you must provide a copy of your spouse’s death certificate
- If you are applying for a CNI as a foreigner living in Kenya, you must provide a copy of your residence permit
Conclusion
Getting married is an important event in anyone’s life, and it is essential to ensure that all the legal requirements are met. In Kenya, the Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (CNI) is a mandatory requirement for anyone who wants to get married outside the country. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can obtain your CNI and proceed with your wedding plans without any legal impediments.
