Last Updated: December 30, 2025
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the process for obtaining an Unmarried Certificate (also known as a Single Status Certificate) in Nepal, a mandatory requirement for court marriage under the National Civil Code 2017 (2074) and the Marriage Registration Act 2028.
What Is An Unmarried Certificate?
An Unmarried Certificate is a legal document issued by the local government that attests to an individual’s current single status. It serves as official proof that the person is not currently married and is legally eligible to enter into a marriage contract.
Note: Without this certificate, the District Court will not process your marriage application. It is the most critical document for legal marriage registration in Nepal.
Required Documents
To apply for an unmarried certificate at your local ward office, ensure you have the following:
- Document Description
- Citizenship Certificate Original and photocopy of the applicant.
- Passport Size Photos At least 2-4 recent photographs.
- Population Card Also known as the Gharayasi Bibaran or Family Record.
- Divorce Decree If previously married, the original court order of divorce.
- Death Certificate If the applicant is a widower/widow, the death certificate of the late spouse.
- Migration Certificate Required only if you have recently moved to a new permanent address.
Step-By-Step Process
Visit the Ward Office: Go to the ward office of your permanent residence (as mentioned on your citizenship certificate).
Submit Application: Fill out the prescribed application form requesting an unmarried certificate.
Verification: The Ward Secretary or authorized officials will verify your marital status through local records and the witness/family details provided.
Issuance: Once verified, the ward office will issue the certificate, usually on the same day or within 24 hours.
Crucial Validity Period
In Nepal, the Unmarried Certificate has a very short “shelf life.”
Standard Validity: It is generally valid for 30 to 35 days.
Court Requirement: Many District Courts (especially in Kathmandu) require the certificate to be as fresh as possible. If your court date is more than 30 days after the certificate’s issuance, you must renew it or obtain a new one.