Is Your Certificate Causing Delays in Your Emigration?
If you’re facing hold-ups in your visa or emigration process, your marriage certificate might be the reason. South African documents often get rejected overseas if they’re incorrect, incomplete, or not properly authenticated.
What Are the Most Common Mistakes?
The biggest issues include:
- Using an abridged instead of unabridged certificate
- Spelling mistakes in names
- Missing signatures or incorrect marriage officer details
- Old or blurry scans
These might seem minor, but immigration departments abroad are strict about documentation.
How Can You Check If Your Certificate Is Valid?
First, confirm whether your certificate is abridged or unabridged. If you’re unsure, a quick scan can help identify it. Then, check that all details are 100% accurate and readable. If anything is unclear, it’s safer to request a new official copy.
Why Apostilles Are Often Required
Even a perfect unabridged marriage certificate can be rejected abroad if it’s not apostilled. This step verifies the document for legal use in another country. It must be done through the Department of International Relations (DIRCO) or the High Court—and it takes time.
What If You Need a New Copy Quickly?
If you’re under pressure, Doc Assist can help. We cut through the red tape and manage everything on your behalf—from reissuing to apostilling. Our clients often get their documents faster than through normal Home Affairs channels.
Can You Fix Errors on an Old Certificate?
Yes. If your marriage certificate has errors, you can apply for a correction. But the process involves submitting supporting documents, affidavits, and often several follow-ups. It’s best to get professional help to avoid further delays.
Don’t Let Paperwork Hold You Back—Doc Assist Can Help
Emigration is stressful enough. Don’t let paperwork ruin your plans. Doc Assist ensures your marriage certificate is error-free, valid, and properly legalized. Whether you need corrections, copies, or apostilles, we’re here to simplify the process. Contact us today and move forward with confidence.