Apply for a single status certificate

Introduction

If you're planning to marry overseas, or if you're returning to your country of residence to get married, you may need a single status certificate. This certificate verifies that you've not been married in NSW during a specified period of time.

You can apply for a single status certificate in person at a Service NSW Centre, or by mail.

Certificates are sent to you by the NSW Registry of Births Deaths & Marriages, using registered post. You cannot get a certificate from a service centre.

Eligibility

• If you're applying for your own certificate, you'll need 3 copies of your own identification.
• If you're applying for a certificate on behalf of another person, you'll need:
  • 3 copies of your own identification
  • a letter giving permission from the person named on the certificate, with their address, daytime telephone number and signature included
  • 3 copies of identification from the person giving permission.

What you need

Before you apply for a single status certificate, check the legal requirements with the consulate, embassy or local representative of the country in which you wish to marry.

To apply for a single status certificate you need:

• your personal and contact details
• the details for the single status search the registry will make (including details of any previous marriages)
• 3 forms of identification as specified on the application
• your fee payment
• the PDF form – 'NSW Single Status Certificate Application'.

Proof of identity documents

• The documents you provide as proof of identity may be verified through the National Document Verification Service (DVS).
• We suggest you do not laminate your certificates. Where possible, identity documents should be kept in their original state.

How to apply

1. Check the eligibility requirements.
2. Download and complete the NSW Single Status Certificate Application – PDF.
3. Make sure you have all the required documentation.
4. Lodge your application with the required documentation and payment using the details on the form.

What happens next

• When the Registry receives your complete and correct application, processing time starts.
• The processing time does not include delivery time.

Payment methods and fees

Visit the Registry of Births, Deaths & Marriages for single status certificate fees.

If you change your mind, or decide the certificate is no longer required, your application fee will not be refunded.