You may need an unabridged marriage certificate for legal purposes. On this page, we’ll clarify what it is and how we can assist you in obtaining one.
Having an unabridged marriage certificate proves that you have signed a legally binding contract and are legally married. Unabridged marriage certificates are official records indicating that two people have entered into a partnership, and they may be issued in areas that do not require wedding licenses.
Some authorities believe unabridged marriage certificates serve two purposes: first, they prove the validity of the marriage, and second, they prove it was witnessed by suitable witnesses. Unabridged marriage certificates are also referred to as “long marriage certificates” or “full marriage certificates”.
Before applying for other travel documentation, individuals who wish to travel internationally or apply for visas for certain countries must provide unabridged marriage certificates. Citizenship applications, adoptions, etc. can also require the document.
How Are Abridged and Unabridged Marriage Certificates Different?
In South Africa, you will automatically receive a marriage certificate or register when you get married. In most DHA offices, you can pick up an abridged marriage certificate once you have registered at Home Affairs. Once you are in the Home Affairs system, you can also obtain an unabridged version, but this involves an application and a lengthy wait. Both certificates have value, but in essence, there are a lot of differences between them.
After a wedding in South Africa, an abridged marriage certificate is issued by default by the Department of Home Affairs. This certificate is sometimes given to newlyweds right away after they have been married. You should be able to use this certificate if you live, work, and plan to stay in South Africa.
The Department of Home Affairs is the only agency authorized to issue unabridged marriage certificates, which are also issued if one of the partners is a foreign national. In general, these certificates are issued if you live outside of South Africa or if you plan to travel away from the country. However, you are not likely to be denied an application if you are not living in South Africa.
An unabridged marriage certificate is required if you plan on emigrating or applying for a foreign passport. The main difference between abridged and unabridged marriage certificates is that unabridged certificates carry an apostille stamp and signatures.
In contrast to the abridged marriage certificate, an unabridged certificate contains more information about the marriage. In addition to offering more proof of the marriage, unabridged marriage certificates can also be used in legal proceedings. Even if they later divorce, the couple can still apply for an “old” marriage certificate from the past, and DocAssist can still assist. In addition, each individual can prove their legal status in South Africa with a Letter of No Impediment.
How Long Does It Take to Get Your Marriage Certificate?
That will depend on which route you take. If you go directly through DHA, it can take up to two years. If you use an agent like ourselves, it will take up to three months. Let DocAssist help you get your legal documents fast and efficiently. Get in touch today!