Single Status Affidavit Template for the Netherlands

A Single Status Affidavit is a legally binding declaration that confirms your unmarried status under Netherlands law. This document serves as official proof that you are not currently married or in a registered partnership, and may also declare whether you have been previously married. You will need this document when foreign authorities require verification of your marital status for legal, administrative, or personal purposes.

When do you need this document?

You will need a Single Status Affidavit when planning to marry abroad, as most foreign jurisdictions require proof that you are legally free to marry. This document is also essential for visa applications to countries that require marital status verification, international adoption proceedings, or when establishing residency in another country. If you are applying for certain types of foreign employment or professional licenses, authorities may request this affidavit as part of your documentation. Additionally, you may need this document for inheritance matters or property transactions in foreign jurisdictions where your marital status affects your legal rights.

Key legal considerations

The affidavit must include your complete personal information, including full legal name, date and place of birth, current address, nationality, and identification details. Your marital status declaration must be explicit and accurate, stating either that you have never been married or providing details of any previous marriages or registered partnerships that have been legally dissolved. The document must include a legal capacity statement confirming your ability to enter into marriage under Dutch law. Any false declarations in the affidavit constitute perjury under Netherlands law and can result in serious legal consequences. If you have been previously married, you must provide evidence that your previous marriage was legally terminated through divorce or death of your spouse.

Legal requirements in Netherlands

Under the Dutch Civil Code, a Single Status Affidavit must be executed before a notary public who will verify your identity and the accuracy of your declarations. The notary will check your marital status through the Dutch Municipal Personal Records Database (BRP) as required by the Dutch Civil Registration Act. The document must be prepared in Dutch and follow the format requirements established under the General Administrative Law Act. For international use, the affidavit typically requires apostille certification under the Legalization of Documents Act and the Hague Convention. If the receiving country is not a party to the Hague Convention, you may need consular legalization through the relevant embassy. Some foreign jurisdictions may also require a certified translation of the document into their official language.