Marriage Affidavit Template for Saudi Arabia

A Marriage Affidavit is a sworn legal declaration that formally verifies your marital status under Saudi Arabian law. This document serves as official proof of marriage when you need to demonstrate your marital relationship to government agencies, foreign embassies, or international authorities. The affidavit must comply with both Islamic Sharia principles and Saudi civil registration requirements, making it a legally binding statement that carries significant legal weight in domestic and international proceedings.

When do you need this document?

You will typically need a Marriage Affidavit when applying for family visas, seeking embassy services, or pursuing legal proceedings that require proof of marriage. Foreign embassies often request this document for dependent visa applications, while international courts may require it for custody, inheritance, or property disputes involving Saudi marriages. The document is also essential when registering your marriage in another country or when Saudi authorities need verified proof of your marital status for government services. Additionally, you may need this affidavit for insurance claims, pension benefits, or educational institution applications that require family status verification.

Key legal considerations

Your Marriage Affidavit must include accurate personal information for both spouses, including full legal names, nationalities, identification numbers, and current addresses. The document should specify the exact date and location of your marriage ceremony, along with details about the authorized religious official (Ma'thun) who performed the ceremony. You must ensure that all information matches your original marriage contract and supporting identity documents, as any discrepancies can invalidate the affidavit. The declaration must be made under oath before an authorized official, and providing false information constitutes perjury under Saudi law. You should also consider whether additional supporting documents, such as witness statements or translated versions, may be required for your specific purpose.

Legal requirements in Saudi Arabia

Under Saudi Personal Status Law and Civil Status Law (Royal Decree No. M/7), your Marriage Affidavit must be authenticated by authorized officials within the Saudi legal system. The document typically requires notarization by a licensed notary public or certification by relevant government departments, depending on its intended use. For marriages performed by authorized Ma'thuns, you must reference the original marriage contract registration with religious courts and civil authorities. If you plan to use the affidavit internationally, you may need additional authentication through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and potentially apostille certification for countries that recognize this process. Ministry of Interior regulations may also apply if the document relates to residency or citizenship matters, requiring additional stamps or certifications from relevant government departments.