How to Get Your Single Status Certificate Attested by the Indian Embassy in Dubai

Navigating official paperwork in a foreign country can feel like a maze, especially when it comes to something as personal as your single status. If you're an Indian national in Dubai needing to prove you're currently unmarried – perhaps for marriage registration here or in another country – getting your Single Status Certificate attested by the Consulate General of India, Dubai (often referred to as the Indian Embassy in common parlance) is a crucial step.

This guide will walk you through the entire process, making it as clear and straightforward as possible, just like I'm explaining it to a friend. We'll cover two main scenarios: getting an existing Indian-issued certificate attested, and obtaining a Single Status Affidavit directly from the Consulate.

What is a Single Status Certificate and Why Do You Need Attestation?

A Single Status Certificate, also known as a Celibacy Certificate, Bachelorhood Certificate, or No Objection Certificate (NOC) for marriage, is an official document declaring that you are currently unmarried and free to marry.

Attestation by the Indian Consulate in Dubai is often required for several reasons:

• Marriage Registration: To marry in the UAE or another country that requires proof of your single status from your home country's embassy.
• Visa Applications: Some countries may ask for this for specific visa categories.
• Legal Formalities: Any other legal process where your marital status needs official verification.

For documents issued in India to be legally recognized in the UAE, they must go through a chain of attestations, culminating in the UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) attestation. The Indian Consulate's attestation is a vital link in this chain for Indian documents.

Your Essential Checklist: Documents Required

Gathering all necessary documents beforehand is key to a smooth process. Make sure you have both originals and photocopies of everything.

If Attesting an Indian-Issued Single Status Certificate:

This is for when you already have a certificate issued by an authority in India.

• Original Single Status Certificate: This must be issued in your name by a competent authority in India, such as a Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), District Magistrate, Tehsildar, or Collector.
• Attestation from India (Mandatory): Your certificate must already be attested by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India. This is a prerequisite.
• Original Passport: Your valid Indian passport.
• Passport Photocopies: Copy of the first page, last page, and valid visa page.
• Original UAE Residence Visa: Your valid UAE residence visa.
• UAE Residence Visa Photocopy: A clear copy.
• Original Emirates ID: Your valid Emirates ID.
• Emirates ID Photocopy: A clear copy (front and back).
• Passport-Sized Photographs: Usually 2-4 recent photographs with a white background.
• Application Form: The specific attestation application form from BLS International, the outsourced service provider for the Indian Consulate.
• Letter of Request (Optional but Recommended): A simple letter addressing the Consul General, requesting the attestation of your certificate, stating its purpose.

If Obtaining a Single Status Affidavit from the Indian Consulate:

This option is common if you don't have an Indian-issued certificate, or if the receiving authority specifically accepts an affidavit sworn at the Consulate.

• Original Passport: Your valid Indian passport.
• Passport Photocopies: Copy of the first page, last page, and valid visa page.
• Original UAE Residence Visa: Your valid UAE residence visa.
• UAE Residence Visa Photocopy: A clear copy.
• Original Emirates ID: Your valid Emirates ID.
• Emirates ID Photocopy: A clear copy (front and back).
• Passport-Sized Photographs: Usually 2-4 recent photographs with a white background.
• Application Form: The specific affidavit application form from BLS International.
• Witnesses (Crucial): For a Single Status Affidavit, you typically need two Indian witnesses who can confirm your single status. They must accompany you, bring their original passports and valid UAE residence visas (along with photocopies), and also sign the affidavit.
• Proof of Address in India (Sometimes requested): Utility bills or Aadhaar card copy might be asked to verify your Indian address.

The Step-by-Step Process

The Indian Consulate General in Dubai has outsourced its administrative functions, including attestation services, to BLS International. This means you'll interact with BLS for most of the process.

Scenario 1: Attesting Your Indian-Issued Single Status Certificate

This is the most common path if you have an official certificate from India.

Step 1: Get Your Certificate Attested in India (Crucial Prerequisite) Before you even think about the Indian Consulate in Dubai, your Single Status Certificate must undergo attestation in India. This typically involves:

• Notary Public Attestation: Get it attested by a Notary Public.
• State Home Department Attestation: The document then needs attestation from the Home Department of the state where it was issued.
• Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Attestation: Finally, it must be attested by the MEA in New Delhi or one of its branch secretariats/authorized agencies. This MEA attestation is non-negotiable for the Indian Consulate in Dubai to accept your document.

Step 2: Visit BLS International in Dubai Once your certificate is MEA-attested, you're ready for the Dubai part.

• Fill the Application Form: Download and fill out the correct attestation application form from the BLS International website.
• Gather Documents: Ensure you have all the documents listed under "If Attesting an Indian-Issued Single Status Certificate" above, including originals and photocopies.
• Head to BLS: Go to one of the BLS International centers in Dubai (e.g., Al Qusais, Bur Dubai, or Deira). Check their website for current locations and operating hours. No prior appointment is usually required for general attestation services, but it's always good to check their website or call their helpline.
• Submit Documents: Present your application form, original MEA-attested certificate, and all supporting documents to the BLS counter. They will verify everything.
• Pay Fees: Pay the required attestation fee and BLS service charge. You will receive a tracking receipt.

Step 3: Collect Your Attested Certificate

• Track Your Application: You can track the status of your application online using the reference number provided on your receipt.
• Collection: Once processed (usually within 2-5 working days), return to the BLS center with your receipt to collect your attested Single Status Certificate.

Scenario 2: Obtaining a Single Status Affidavit from the Indian Consulate (via BLS)

If you don't have an Indian-issued certificate or prefer an affidavit directly from the Consulate.

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents and Witnesses

• Fill the Affidavit Form: Download the relevant affidavit form from the BLS International website.
• Gather Documents: Ensure you have all the documents listed under "If Obtaining a Single Status Affidavit" above, including originals and photocopies.
• Arrange Witnesses: This is critical. Identify two Indian nationals who know you and can confirm your single status. They must accompany you to BLS with their original passports, valid UAE visas, and photocopies.

Step 2: Visit BLS International in Dubai (with Witnesses)

• Head to BLS: Go to one of the BLS International centers.
• Submit Documents & Swear Affidavit: At the counter, you and your witnesses will submit the forms and documents. You will then need to sign the affidavit in front of a BLS official (who acts on behalf of the Consular Officer). Your witnesses will also sign.
• Pay Fees: Pay the required affidavit fee and BLS service charge. You will receive a tracking receipt.

Step 3: Collect Your Attested Affidavit

• Track Your Application: Use the reference number on your receipt to track your application online.
• Collection: Once processed (usually within 2-5 working days), return to the BLS center with your receipt to collect your attested Single Status Affidavit.

Step 4: UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) Attestation (Usually Required)

For your attested document (either the certificate or the affidavit) to be legally recognized and accepted by authorities within the UAE, you will almost certainly need MOFA attestation.

• Online or Service Centers: You can apply for MOFA attestation online through their website or visit one of their customer happiness centers.
• Submit Document: Present your Indian Consulate-attested document along with your Emirates ID.
• Pay Fees: Pay the MOFA attestation fee.
• Collection: MOFA attestation is usually a quick process, sometimes done on the same day if you visit a customer happiness center.

Fees, Timeframes, and Where to Go

• BLS International Service Centers:
  • Dubai: Check blsindia.ae for the latest addresses and opening hours (e.g., Al Qusais, Bur Dubai).
• Indian Consulate Attestation Fees (approximate, subject to change):
  • For attestation of an existing document: AED 40-50
  • For Single Status Affidavit (including declaration): AED 80-90
  • Note: These are consular fees. BLS International will charge an additional service fee (typically AED 9-15 per application).
• Processing Time:
  • Through BLS International for Indian Consulate attestation: 2-5 working days (can sometimes be longer depending on verification requirements).
  • MOFA attestation: Often same-day if done in person, or a few days if done online.

Always check the BLS International website or call their helpline for the most up-to-date fees and processing times, as these can change.

Key Tips and What to Watch Out For

• ME A Attestation is Non-Negotiable: If you're attesting an Indian-issued certificate, ensure it has the MEA stamp before you come to Dubai. Without it, the Indian Consulate here cannot attest it.
• Witnesses for Affidavit: If choosing the affidavit route, ensure your witnesses are Indian nationals, have their original documents, and can accompany you. Without them, your application will be rejected.
• Photocopies are Your Best Friend: Always carry multiple sets of photocopies of all documents. It saves a lot of hassle.
• Check Validity: Ensure your passport, visa, and Emirates ID are all valid for at least six months.
• Keep Your Receipt: Your BLS receipt is crucial for tracking and collecting your document. Don't lose it.
• Holidays: Be mindful of Indian and UAE public holidays, as BLS and the Consulate will be closed.
• Double-Check Requirements with Receiving Authority: Always confirm with the authority requesting the certificate (e.g., the court where you're marrying, the foreign embassy) exactly what type of document they need (certificate vs. affidavit) and if MOFA attestation is required after the Indian Consulate's attestation.
• Courier Service: BLS International offers an optional courier service for document delivery (for an extra fee), which can save you a trip back to the center.

Common Questions Answered

Q: Can a relative in India get my Single Status Certificate attested by MEA for me? A: Yes, MEA attestation can often be done by a close relative or through authorized agencies in India. However, the final submission to the Indian Consulate in Dubai (via BLS) must be by you, the applicant, or an authorized representative with a power of attorney.

Q: What if my Indian Single Status Certificate is old? Is there a validity period? A: While there's no fixed expiry date stamped on the certificate itself, many authorities (especially for marriage) prefer a recently issued certificate (e.g., within the last 3-6 months). If yours is older, it might be advisable to obtain a new one from India and get it re-attested by MEA.

Q: Can someone else submit or collect my document at BLS? A: Generally, for attestation services, the applicant is preferred. For collection, if you opt for courier, it's delivered to your address. If collecting in person, you usually need to show your original receipt and ID. For affidavits, your physical presence (and witnesses') is mandatory.

Q: Is MOFA attestation always needed after the Indian Consulate attestation? A: If the document is to be used for official purposes within the UAE (e.g., for marriage in a UAE court), then MOFA attestation is almost always required. If it's for use in another country, you'll need to check that country's specific requirements.

Final Thoughts

Getting your Single Status Certificate attested might seem like a maze of paperwork, but by understanding the process, gathering your documents meticulously, and following these steps, you can navigate it successfully. Be patient, be thorough, and don't hesitate to check the official BLS International and Consulate websites for the most current information. Good luck!