Indian Embassy UAE: Essential Guide to Obtaining Your Single Status Affidavit

Navigating paperwork in a foreign country can feel like a maze, especially when it involves something as personal as proving your single status. If you're an Indian national residing in the UAE and need an affidavit confirming you are currently unmarried, this guide is for you. Whether it's for marriage abroad, visa applications, or other official purposes, the Indian Embassy or Consulate in the UAE can help you get this crucial document.

This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, offering practical advice to make it as smooth as possible.

What is a Single Status Affidavit and Why Do You Need It?

A Single Status Affidavit, also known as a "No Objection Certificate" (NOC) for marriage or a "Bachelorhood Certificate," is a sworn legal statement confirming that you are currently unmarried and legally free to marry. Many countries, when you plan to marry a foreign national or even an Indian national abroad, require this document to prevent bigamy and ensure legal compliance.

For Indian nationals in the UAE, this affidavit is typically issued by the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the Consulate General of India in Dubai, depending on your residence.

Key Requirements (What You'll Need)

Before you begin, gather these essential documents. Having everything ready saves time and prevents multiple trips.

• Your Original Indian Passport: A valid passport is non-negotiable.
• Copy of Your Indian Passport: Front and back pages, and the page with your valid UAE visa.
• Original Emirates ID: And a copy.
• Proof of UAE Residence: This could be your Emirates ID, a recent utility bill (DEWA, SEWA, ADDC) in your name, or a tenancy contract.
• Passport-Sized Photographs: Usually 2-4 recent photographs with a white background.
• Affidavit Form: This specific form will be available on the respective Embassy/Consulate or BLS International website. You'll need to fill it out, but do not sign it yet.
• Proof of Single Status (Crucial): This is where it gets a bit nuanced.
  • If you have never been married: You'll generally self-declare this on the affidavit. However, some authorities abroad might also require a Single Status Certificate from India itself, attested by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), India. While the embassy here issues an affidavit based on your declaration, be aware of the end-user's requirements.
  • If you are divorced: You must provide the original and a copy of your Divorce Decree (Judicial Order) attested by the MEA, India.
  • If you are a widow/widower: You must provide the original and a copy of your spouse's Death Certificate and your Marriage Certificate, both attested by the MEA, India.
• Witnesses (Optional but Recommended): While not always explicitly required for this specific affidavit, it's good practice to clarify. If witnesses are needed, they should be Indian nationals with valid passports and Emirates IDs. They will also need to sign the affidavit. Always check the latest requirements on the BLS website.
• Fees: Be prepared to pay the consular fee. Check the exact amount on the BLS website.

Step-by-Step Process: Getting Your Affidavit

The process usually involves applying through BLS International, the outsourced agency for Indian consular services in the UAE.

Step 1: Online Application and Form Preparation

1. Visit the BLS International Website: Go to the BLS International website for Indian consular services in the UAE (blsindia-uae.com).
2. Navigate to Consular Services: Look for sections like "Affidavits," "Attestation," or "Miscellaneous Services."
3. Find the "Affidavit for Single Status" Form: Download and print the specific application form.
4. Fill the Form Carefully:
   • Enter all your personal details exactly as they appear on your passport.
   • Clearly state your single status.
   • Important: Print the form, but do not sign it yet. You will sign it in front of a consular officer or BLS representative.
5. Book an Appointment (if required): Depending on the BLS center and current regulations, you might need to book an online appointment for submission. Some centers allow walk-ins for specific services, but confirming beforehand is always best.

Step 2: Document Verification and Submission at BLS

1. Locate Your Nearest BLS Center: Based on your UAE residency, you'll visit either a BLS center under the Indian Embassy Abu Dhabi's jurisdiction (e.g., Abu Dhabi, Al Ain) or the Consulate General of India Dubai's jurisdiction (e.g., Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, RAK, FUJ).
2. Arrive with All Documents: Bring all original documents and their photocopies listed in the "Key Requirements" section. Ensure your photographs meet the specified standards.
3. Submission and Verification:
   • Present your documents at the counter. A BLS representative will verify them.
   • You will be asked to sign the affidavit in front of the BLS officer. This is a crucial step as it attests to the authenticity of your declaration.
   • If witnesses are required, they will also need to be present with their original passports and Emirates IDs to sign.
4. Pay the Fees: Pay the applicable consular and service fees. You'll receive a receipt with a tracking number.
5. Collect Acknowledgment: Keep the receipt safe; you'll need it for tracking your application and collecting the document.

Step 3: Processing and Collection

1. Processing Time: The processing time can vary, but it's typically 3-5 working days. It can be longer if further verification is required.
2. Track Your Application: Use the tracking number on your receipt on the BLS website to check the status of your application.
3. Collection: Once the status shows "Ready for Collection," visit the same BLS center with your original receipt to collect your attested Single Status Affidavit.

Important Considerations & Practical Tips

• Jurisdiction Matters: Ensure you apply at the correct BLS center corresponding to your UAE residency visa. Applying at the wrong center will lead to rejection.
• "Unmarried" vs. "Single Status": The term "single status" legally encompasses never married, divorced, or widowed. Ensure your affidavit accurately reflects your situation and that you have the supporting documents if applicable.
• Attestation of Indian Documents: If you're divorced or widowed, your Indian divorce decree or death certificate must be attested by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India before you present it to the Indian Embassy/Consulate in the UAE. Without MEA attestation, these documents will not be accepted.
• Fees Can Change: Always check the BLS website for the most current fee structure.
• Early Application: Don't leave this to the last minute. Give yourself ample time, especially if you foresee any complications or if the document needs further attestation.
• Further Attestation (MOFA UAE): After obtaining the Single Status Affidavit from the Indian Embassy/Consulate, you might need to get it attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFAIC) if the document is to be used within the UAE or presented to authorities of another country through the UAE. Check with the receiving authority if this additional step is necessary.

Common Questions Answered

• Q: Can someone else apply or collect on my behalf?
  • A: Generally, no. For affidavits, personal appearance is usually mandatory for signing in front of the consular officer/BLS representative. Collection might be possible by a proxy with a valid authority letter, but it's best to confirm with BLS directly.
• Q: What if my passport address is not in the UAE?
  • A: Your UAE residency proof (Emirates ID, visa) is key. The address on your Indian passport is less critical here than your current legal residence in the UAE.
• Q: Is this affidavit valid everywhere?
  • A: It's an official document from the Indian Mission in the UAE, recognized internationally. However, specific countries or institutions might have additional requirements (e.g., further attestation by MOFA UAE and the destination country's embassy). Always check with the authority requesting the document.
• Q: Do I need to visit India first to get a Single Status Certificate?
  • A: Not necessarily to get this specific affidavit from the UAE Embassy. The affidavit is your declaration of single status. However, as mentioned earlier, some foreign authorities might insist on a "Single Status Certificate" issued by an Indian authority (e.g., local municipality, court) and attested by MEA India. Clarify with the requesting party to avoid issues.

Next Steps After Getting Your Affidavit

Once you have your attested Single Status Affidavit, confirm with the requesting authority (e.g., marriage registrar, embassy of the country where you plan to marry) if any further attestations are needed. Often, a MOFAIC attestation in the UAE is the next logical step if the document is for use outside India.

While the process might seem detailed, breaking it down into manageable steps and having all your documents in order will make it a straightforward experience. Good luck!