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How Can NRIs Get Single Status Certificate While Working in Saudi Arabia?

How Can NRIs Get Single Status Certificate While Working in Saudi Arabia?

Also known as a no marriage certificate or certificate of no impediment, a single status certificate can be obtained easily, even if you’re in Saudi Arabia and working as a non-resident Indian (NRI). This document is a legal paper required for different purposes, especially navigating the challenges in marriage abroad or its registration.

Here is how you can apply and acquire a single status certificate.

Process to Obtain a Single Status Certificate in Saudi Arabia

Let’s find out the simple way to acquire a no marriage certificate in a gulf country.

Step 1. Contact the Indian Embassy/Consulate

The process starts with reaching out to the Indian embassy or consulate located in Saudi Arabia. You can inquire about the whole procedure, contextual requirement, and documents to obtain a single status certificate. So, the purpose is to collect information, but not to apply. It can be done online.

Step 2. Confirm Eligibility

Beforehand, you should discover if you’re eligible to apply for this document. Typically, the eligibility criteria mentions your age, which should be above 21 years, to get it.

Step 3. Document Preparation

This step is dedicated to gathering necessary documents. These can be the following:

  • Passport: The applicant should have a copy of his/her valid passport, including particular pages consisting of personal information and the residence permit in Saudi Arabia.
  • Proof of Stay: It is an evidence of one’s residence in Saudi Arabia for which he or she can show a copy of his/her residence permit (Iqama).
  • Affidavit: It refers to a sworn document, stating that its bearer is single or bachelor. A single status affidavit must be attested or legalised by the Indian embassy to be accepted.
  • Visa photocopies
  • 2 photographs
  • An Authorization Letter

Step 4. Visit the Indian Embassy/Consulate

Now comes the step when you have to schedule an appointment with the embassy or consulate. Visit its official website to contact the authority and understand how to move further and obtain a bachelorhood certificate. Thoroughly check and discover their working hours. Then, select a slot to visit for an appointment.

Step 5. Affidavit Attestation

If the authority seeks affidavit, you have to get it from the notary public in your own country and get it attested from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of Saudi Arabia. This step makes this document acceptable because the legalized document becomes authentic that every country trusts.

Step 6. Translation of Documents

The translation of any of your document in Arabic would require its English version. So, you should ensure that these translations are also signed by a competent authority.

Step 7. Visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Now that you have all documents ready, get them legalized by the MOFA in the host country. The website- https://mea.gov.in/apostille.htm is an official website to host documents’ attestation services. You, also, have to visit there and go through the interview with consul before.

Step 8. Submission of Documents

During that interview, you are supposed to submit all aforementioned documents. The checklist carries the attested single status affidavit, passport, and proof of stay and translation of all docs (that are in the regional language).

Step 9. Verification Process

The consul will examine the authenticity and originality of the supporting documents during verification. This can happen in your very presence before the relevant authority.

Step 10. Payment of Fees

Because the attestation is to be done, the authority can seek fees for its issuance. This fee can be revised over years. So, it cannot be mentioned here specifically. But, you can go through the official website of the consulting agents because the MEA does not entertain request from anyone, unless it is an authorized consultant.

Step 11. Waiting Period

The processing time for this bachelorhood proof can vary. Your documents can be attested and verified one the very same day or in 2-3 days. If the expected time exceeds, you can inquire by visiting its office.

Step 12. Certificate Issuance

If everything appears accurate, and the documents are valid, the embassy will issue the certificate of single status.

Step 13. Attestation by MOFA India

After obtaining, it should be legalized by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India. This step ensures that your certificate is valid and can be used internationally.

Step 14. Optional: Attestation by the Embassy of the Receiving Country

Depending on the destination country’s requirements, you may also need to get the Single Status Certificate attested by the Embassy or Consulate of the country where you intend to use the document.

Step 15. Delivery or Collection

Finally, the procedure ends with the delivery of the document, which is outlined by the Embassy/Consulate.

Additional Tips

If you consider seeking assistance, hire professional consultants that specialize in document attestation services.

In the Nutshell

It’s necessary to understand that the procedure and requirements can be different as per location. So, you should always check with the relevant authorities and the official website of the Indian embassy/ consulate in Saudi Arabia for the most accurate and updated information.

How to Apply for a Birth Certificate in Maharashtra?

How to Apply for a Birth Certificate in Maharashtra?

Are you facing challenges in obtaining your birth certificate in Maharashtra?

Or, do you find it difficult to receive your birth certificate?

This blog will answer to your all burning questions related to your birth certificate, as how to obtain it, what the processing time is, what to do if you lose it, and more like these queries.

So, let’s get started.

Introduction

A birth certificate is a significant paper that is legally valid as a proof of your identity and citizenship. This proof can be helpful in leveraging government schemes and services, such as opening a bank account, taking admissions in schools or colleges, applying for a passport or visa, investing in insurance policies, etc.

Overall, the vitality of this documents is way above than any other document.

How to Apply in Maharashtra?

Maharashtra is one of the states of India where the process of obtaining it is very streamlined so that the residents won’t have to face hassles. Let’s introduce you to a comprehensive guide on how to obtain this certificate in Maharashtra.

A. Online Application Process

Step 1. Visit the MahaOnline Portal

The government of Maharashtra has streamed an online facility with the name MAHAONLINE, which facilitates various government services. Addressing the request for a birth certificate is one of them. So, you can leverage this facility and access its official website – https://www.mahaonline.gov.in/

Step 2. Create an Account

Before proceeding to apply, you have to officially introduce yourself on the website by creating your account on that website. You need to provide details, such as your name, email address, and phone number. Thereafter, you need to follow the login procedure while ensuring security.

Step 3. Select the Municipality

This website has multiple relevant municipalities, councils or local governing bodies. These all authorities are authorized to register and reissue a birth proof. So, you have to select the correct one that belongs to the area where you (as an applicant) come from.

Step 4. Fill in the Birth Certificate Application Form

Now, explore menus, select citizen services> birth certificate. Go to it and download its online application form. Then, fill in the details, such as the applicant’s name, date and place of birth, and other relevant details.

Step 5. Upload Supporting Documents

Once filled, upload the scanned document with all supporting documents. To discover the list of all supporting documents, you can check out the instruction. It clearly mentions to enclose a proof of residence, identity, and hospital records. So, you need to be very specific about the government specifications that are given on the portal to avoid delays.

Step 6. Pay Out the Fee

The government charges nominal fee for issuing this document once you upload your application. Being in the cashless economy, you can utilize various online modes that are available, such a UPI payment or debit card can also be used.

As far as the exact amount is concerned, it can be between INR 25 and INR 30. This amount can be revised over time. So, you are requested to refer to the official website for the most current fee structure.

Step 7. Track Application Status

Considering that your application is successfully submitted, you can track its status on the very same website. Inputting the reference number can help you to access real-time updates of your application’s status.

Step 8. Download the Birth Certificate

The reference link will direct you to discover if your application is approved or not. Once approved, you can download your birth proof directly from that very portal online.

The validity and legitimacy of that digital birth certificate will be similar to physically issued birth proof.

B. Offline Application Process

Unlike online, offline process of obtaining a birth certificate in Maharashtra is a little time-consuming and full of hassles. Let’s help you to discover this onsite process also.

Step 1. Visit the Local Municipal Office

Being an applicant or a near one of the applicant, you can visit the local municipal office or relevant authority in your area. To discover where the office is, you can consult with an authentic consultant like experts at Services2NRI. NRIs can also contact to discover its end-to-end process.

Step 2. Collect the Application Form

You can request for the application form from the registrar. Then, fill in the details accurately, mentioning all details relating to the birth of the child, parents, place of birth, relationship of the applicant with the one who is raising a request, etc.

Step 3. Submit Supporting Documents

Now that you have completed the form, visit the office with all necessary supporting documents for verification. These documents can be your residential proof, identity proof like passport, hospital records, and parents’ identity cards. Keep the photocopies of these documents handy with their originals.

Step 4. Pay the Prescribed Fee

The offline process requires payment in cash at the municipal office. So, you may discover the fee structure from the very authority and pay out the amount accordingly.

Step 5. Collect the Acknowledgment Receipt

As you submit the application with fee, receive an acknowledgement receipt. It will have a unique reference number that can used to track the status of your application. So, keep it safe.

Step 6. Collect the Birth Certificate

As the application is processed, you will receive a notification on your official email ID or phone number. Then, you can visit the municipal office again and request to obtain the birth certificate. As you receive, check if all details are correct.

Conclusion

Obtaining a birth certificate in Maharashtra can be a simple procedure if you follow the aforementioned steps. Both online and offline methods are available to ensure that you can obtain your birth proof effectively. The applicant is expected to follow the updated details, which can be drawn from the inquiry department of the competent authority.

How to Get a Single Status Certificate in Dubai?

How to Get a Single Status Certificate in Dubai?

Are you likely to marry and need a single status certificate in Dubai?

If yes, this blog is going to help you a lot. You should remember that this certificate is also known as a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage or Nulla Osta or Bachelorhood certificate. The process to obtain is simple and straightforward. You just follow this step-by-step procedure to understand how easy it is.

Steps to Obtain a Single Status Certificate in Dubai

Before starting, you need to be very sure if you are eligible to apply for this document. Let’s make it a little easier.

  • Check Eligibility

As per guidelines, you should be a bachelor if you are likely to obtain it. In case you are a divorcee or widowed, provide papers like decree absolute or death certificate of your spouse.

  • Visit Your Consulate or Embassy

Now that you have checked your eligibility, the next thing is to visit your country’s consulate or embassy in Dubai. Its inquiry department will share every detail on how to apply, and also provide necessary application forms. You should mind the fact that each country has its own unique requirements and procedures. So, you need to follow the procedure and instructions accordingly.

  • Required Documents

Non-residents (NRIs) can contact a reputed consultant to know which documents to enclose. Here is the checklist of various documents to consider

  1. Birth certificate
  2. Passport and a copy of your passport
  3. Proof of residency in Dubai (e.g., a residence visa)
  4. A sworn affidavit stating that you are single and free to marry
  5. Decree Absolute for The One Who is a Divorcee
  6. Death Certificate for The One Whose Spouse is No More
  • Complete Application Form

Once you have all documents in place, request for the application form. Or, you can download it from the website of the embassy. In this case, Dubai is your destination where the website of Indian embassy is https://www.cgidubai.gov.in/page/consulate-officers/. It can help you to access all details. Fill in the accurate details and truthful information in it. If downloaded, you can upload the scanned copy of a completely filled document.

  • Schedule an Appointment

The application uploading will redirect you to schedule an appointment with the consul of your country. Schedule it so that your application can reach out to the competent authority. Enclose all supporting documents to verify the input details in your application form.

  • Pay Fees

This is a payable service, which means that you have to pay some amount (which is minimal) to obtain a single status certificate. There can be online payment options, such as debit or credit card payment or netbanking.

  • Attend an Interview

Visit the consulate office on the scheduled date and time for the interview. Once all things go smooth during it, your documents will be verified on the very same day.

  • Wait for Processing

The verification will let your request enter the next level. For further verification in the home country, you may have to wait for a few days. This is the reason that the certificate is issued in different time intervals. So, you should inquire about the processing time prior.

  • Collect the Certificate

As the approval is provided, you can collect your certificate of single status from the consulate. This is issued upon seeing your identification card, which can your passport or nationality card.

  • Legalization

Now, you have to get it apostilled or legalized from the competent authorities in your own country and embassy. For this purpose, reach out to a respected and experienced NRI consultant if you’re an NRI It will help you get all details.

Conclusion

The process of single status certificate application in Dubai is simple, provided that you have all authentic documents in place, which are your passport, birth certificate, nationality card, and witness proofs. You can take guidance from a consultant or embassy to discover its end-to-end procedure, fee structure, and processing time.

 

Attestation Procedure, Documents Required, & Fees

Attestation Procedure, Documents Required, & Fees

Attestation refers to legalizing documents by competent authorities, especially the embassies and the ministry of external affairs. If you have attested documents, studying and residing abroad for work or any other purpose would be easy. It means that your struggle with formalities with a government, visa, or passport official will be lesser.

Here in this blog, we’re going to make this battle of document attestation easier to win for you. These apostille or attestation tips and processes will help you deal with challenges.

What is Apostille and Attestation?

As aforementioned, apostille is simply explained as the process of making a document officially acceptable overseas. This kind of legalization is termed as attestation.

When this very purpose is achieved through attestation by the Hague Convention (set up in 1961), it is termed as apostille. The applicant has to follow this process, especially when he or she is likely to visit the member country of this convention.

All in all, the objective is similar (which is to make documents legally acceptable), but the verification authorities differ.

Here, prospective applicants should be aware of the fact that their documents may or may not be verified in this phase because the state government and notary officer has already certified it before. These attestation services confirm that the document is legally valid and acceptable overseas.

Now that you know the difference, let’s figure out what documents should be presented to apostille.

Documents that Typically Require Apostille or Attestation

Here is the list of all important papers that can be required for apostille or attestation.

  • Academic or educational certificates like diplomas, degrees, and school certificates
  • Personal documents, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and other personal documents
  • Commercial papers that can be company registration documents, trade licences, and other business documents
  • Legal papers like power of attorney (POA), affidavits, and more

Here is how you can get these documents legalized.

The Procedure for Apostille and Attestation in India

Here is an overview of different levels of attestation/apostille.

  1. State Level Attestation
  • Verification: This process is concerned with the authenticity and validity check of the enclosed documents. The respective state authorities, such as the Home Department or the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of the area where you live, examine if the document is genuine.
  • Notary Attestation: Notary public is a local officer in the court who deeply checks your documents to find if they are original.
  • State Home Department Attestation: When the local authorities pass your documents in the authenticity check, the State Home Department verifies them.

      2. Central Level Attestation

  • MEA Attestation: The MEA stands for the Ministry of External Affairs, which is the apex authority to verify your documents. One thing to consider in this matter is that the request cannot be raised personally. You have to hire a recognized agent. These can be outsourcing companies or consultants who submit your documents and request for attestation.
  • Apostille Certificate: The applicant should determine if he or she is likely to fly to the member country of the Hague Convention. If it’s the member country, the documents should be apostilled, but not attested. Its advantage is that no further process of legalization in the embassy will be required.
  • Embassy Attestation (if required): This is the case when the country of intended use is not a member country of the Hague Convention. It means that you may have to get embassy or consulate attestation. Submit the documents to the respective embassy for attestation.

          Fees for Apostille and Attestation

Let’s find out the fee structure that you all like to discover. You should understand that the amount to pay for apostille and attestation services may differ. Also, the type of document, which can be educational, non-educational, and commercial papers, also matters when it comes to paying out for these solutions.

The cost may be start from INR 1200 onwards per document for apostille. You may visit its official website to discover its actual prices.

Checklist of Required Supporting Documents 

  • Original document (educational, non-educational, and commercial) that you want to get legalized
  • Photocopy of original document
  • A photocopy of your passport
  • Filled application form with necessary details
  • Pay out the requisite fees

Timeframe

Generally, people get worried about when they can have their document attested. This part will have the answer. You can obtain any attested document in a week to a month from the State government.  The central-level verification will again take a few days. Then comes the embassy attestation, which is separate from other authorities. It will again take a few days.

In the nutshell, the applicant should be prepared to raise a request at least three-four months before. This can help you in meeting the purpose within stipulated timeline

Conclusion

Apostille and Attestation, both, are similar and very crucial for validating your documents. Both of these processes make a document legalized, which means that the document is accepted internationally. The process in both cases will be similar, involving multiple steps at the state, central, and embassy levels. However, the process may change per country. The applicant should follow the procedure on various levels, including the state and central government level. Later, he or should reach out to the embassy for the final stamp of authority.

 

Where & How to Get the Statement of No Marriage?

Where & How to Get the Statement of No Marriage?

A “Statement of No Marriage” is the “Certificate of No Marriage Record”. This is a legal document that an individual, who lives afar, requires for proving that he or she is single. So, you can take it as a legalized proof of one’s bachelorhood.

As an Indian or non-resident, you may have to obtain it for a passport, a visa, or becoming a beneficiary of certain government schemes. You can have it by following a straightforward process. Typically, the local government or authority like SDM manages this process. This blog will help you to overview the entire process of getting it from India, no matter where you live.

Where to Get the Statement of No Marriage:

As the title of this blog states, “where to get the Statement of No Marriage” in India, let’s help you to know below.

However, the answer to this question is aforementioned. You can visit the office of a local authority, such as sub-registrar office or local municipal authority to obtain it. These are the competent authorities who you can contact with and apply for this paper. They are responsible to maintain this record.

In villages, gram panchayat or the local court is there for application.

How to Get A Statement of No Marriage?

Now, let’s follow the steps that help in applying for this no marriage certificate.

  1. The process starts with your visit to the local municipal corporation in your area. Or, it can be the office of sub-registrar.  So, you should discover the address in your district or tehsil in your city or ward or village. Or, the website of this authority can be there over the internet.
  2. Procure the application form and get ready with the documents to support your application.
  3. The checklist of these documents carries the following names:
  • Proof of identity (Aadhaar card, passport, voter ID, etc.)
  • Proof of address (Aadhaar card, utility bills, rent agreement, etc.)
  • Passport-size photographs
  • Affidavit stating your single/marital status
  • Any other documents specific to your local authority’s requirements
  1. Now that you have prepared every paper, move to filling in the application form. The website or the office of the aforementioned authority will be the right place to obtain this application for the Statement of No Marriage.
  2. Once you have, fill in the information accurately that is requisite. Incomplete details may lead to its rejection. So, ensure that it is completely filled. In case, you don’t have confidence to fill it accurately, request for a support from an experienced NRI consultant as Services2NRI. We will guide you throughout the process.
  3. As it’s done, submit your application. Don’t forget to enclose the supporting documents. Their absence can put your application on the waiting list. So, cross-check before pressing the submit button or forwarding the application to the office physically.
  4. The designated officer will examine and verify if your documents are all there and aligned as per instructions.

Verification Process
Verification is associated with the authentication or validity check of enclosed papers. The sub-registrar will examine them. And sometimes, he/ she may conduct an investigation in-person before approving your request. The officer may ask your neighbours to discover the truth.

Pay Out the Applicable Fee
This is a payable service. However, the associated fee is minimal. You will see variation in the fee structure. The state and government regulations can lead to its revision. So,  pay the fee accordingly and don’t skip collecting the receipt.

Processing Ends Process

Like fees, the processing time may be changed per state or location when you change the state or territory. In a few cases where every paper is in place correctly, they may receive the certificate on the very same day. But many times, it’s a weeks-long process. So, you’re expected to hold your breath for the stipulated time.

Collect the Certificate
As your application is approved, rush to collect the statement of no marriage certificate from the office. You will receive the message on your registered phone number or email ID.

Once you have it, check if it shows all details correctly.

Legalization

The process of attestation or apostilling can be compulsory if the applicant is an NRI and requires it for marriage abroad. They can explore the websites www.mea.gov.in (Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India) or  www.india.gov.in (National Portal of India). These websites can help you to follow the right way of this application and attestation.

Conclusion

Getting a Statement of No Marriage in India can be difficult because there is no specific agency or office to provide it. You may have to visit the SDM or municipal corporate office for filling the application form and following the verification process. The aforementioned steps and fee structure can make your application successful. You may apply for it online. Explore the local municipal corporate website for this purpose.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Main Challenges that NRIs face While Living Abroad

Main Challenges that NRIs face While Living Abroad

Nearly 7.5 lakh Indian students took a flight abroad In 12 months. According to data provided by Subhas Sarkar, Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, the headcount of Indian students who study abroad jumped up by 68.79% last year.

Going abroad is not an easy decision. Nor is it a cakewalk to live there because of a number of challenges that NRIs face for real. But at the same time, this decision brings a ton of new opportunities and financial growth. You can have cultural exposure. Certainly, these all affect your emotional, social, and financial well-being.

Today, through this blog, you can get insights into the most common challenges that non-residents of India face while being abroad.

Challenges that NRIs Face Abroad

Let’s get started.

  1. Cultural Identity and Adaptation

Cultural differences often seem big. This is because you go out with a different cultural identity, and you have to mix with the local culture of the USA, UK, Russia, or wherever you go. According to a study by the Pew Research Center, about 47% of Indian immigrants in the United States found that adapting to American culture is like chewing iron bullets. It’s like a tug-of-war between preserving & protecting your own cultural roots, and simultaneously, integrating into the local society. Many-a-times, you feel isolated.

  1. Loneliness and Social Isolation

For sure, one has to live away from his/her home country. A long stay somewhere far away from the family can result in feeling alone. A survey conducted by the Association of Indian Community in Indonesia found that nearly 80% of Indians in Indonesia suffer from homesickness. This is profusely impacting their mental health and wellbeing.

  1. Financial Pressures

Although the ultimate aim of shifting abroad is to improve financial prospects, NRIs also encounter financial pressures. This can be unique to their situation, such as sending money back to their families and maintaining two households (while being far away). Sometimes, they have to deal with currency fluctuations because of the aforesaid reasons, which certainly can lead to financial stress. In this regard, the World Bank, India reported that India was the top recipient of remittances globally in 2020, with over $83 billion received from NRIs.

  1. Employment Challenges

There are many Indians who go on study visas in Canada, the United States, and other foreign countries.  And in many cases, they have to find jobs for their pocket money and managing expenses there, which is obviously necessary because of high currency value. In these circumstances, they lack foreign qualifications and work experience.  Of course, the cultural difference is also a big thing to adjust in workplace dynamics. A study by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) clearly stated that about 40% of Indian professionals abroad live life like a nightmare because of difficulties in finding jobs matching their skills and qualifications.

  1. Legal and Documentation Hassles

This is indeed a big struggle to navigate legal processes, paperwork, and documentation in a foreign country. Precisely, this includes obtaining visas, PPC, single status certificate, & the change of status certificate. It may also encompass dealing with residency permits, and understanding tax laws. A report by the Ministry of External Affairs states that legal and documentation challenges are among the topmost concerns for non-residents of India.

  1. Health Care Concerns

However, medical tourism is pervasive. But, accessing quality healthcare can be a challenge for NRIs. This can particularly happen to them in countries where the healthcare systems are different. Language barriers might be there. In addition, you can see differences in medical practices, and expensive healthcare abroad. A survey conducted by Apollo Hospitals clearly states that around 80% of NRIs believe that the Indian healthcare system is more affordable and accessible than healthcare abroad.

  1. Remittances and Investment

Sending money back to India as remittances is a very popular trend among NRIs. However, they also face challenges in finding the right investment opportunities that can justify or align with their financial needs and risk tolerance. If you look into a report by the Reserve Bank of India, it states that NRIs are increasingly looking for investment options that offer higher returns and flexibility.

  1. Getting Married Abroad

Getting married abroad is no less than a nightmare for NRIs. This is because of legal complexities and cultural differences. According to a survey, 65% of NRIs faced hurdles in navigating foreign marriage laws, and 72% struggled with coordinating ceremonies across borders. Balancing traditional practices and legal requirements like submitting a single status certificate can lead to emotional and logistical stress. It ultimately affects their wedding experience.

Conclusion

There are multiple challenges that NRIs face abroad because of their cultural identity, emotional well-being, social connections, marriages, and financial stability. These challenges are not just individual experiences, but also impact a majority of NRIs. Governments, organizations, and communities can work together to provide support systems, resources, and platforms that address the unique needs of NRIs and help them navigate the complexities of living abroad.

 

 

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