What a single status declaration is
Many countries ask a person marrying there to prove they are legally free to marry. Canada does not issue a certificate of 'no record of marriage' the way some countries do, so foreign authorities usually accept a sworn declaration instead: a statutory declaration in which you state your full name, birth details and current marital status — single, divorced or widowed.
Common uses
Besides marriage abroad, marital status declarations come up in immigration sponsorship, foreign property transactions, pension and benefit claims, and common-law status confirmations for insurers, employers and government programs.
What the receiving country may require
Requirements differ sharply by country. Some accept a notarized declaration on its own; many require it to be authenticated with an apostille afterward; a few insist on specific wording from their consulate. Ask the authority receiving the document — or its consulate in Canada — for their exact requirements before your appointment.
Supporting documents
If you are divorced or widowed, bring the divorce order or death certificate — some declarations attach these as exhibits. Bring government photo ID in your current legal name; if your name has changed, bring the change-of-name documentation too.
The appointment
You sign the declaration before a commissioner or notary, who administers the affirmation and completes the jurat. If the document is going abroad, book it as a notarization so it can proceed to apostille or legalization without a second appointment.
General information only — not legal advice. Requirements depend on your document and the institution receiving it; we confirm what applies before you book.