Your Complete Guide to CENOMAR and DFA Apostille in the UAE

When planning to get married, work abroad, or process important documents, one of the most commonly required papers in the Philippines is the CENOMAR or Certificate of No Marriage Record. This document, issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), proves that a person has never been married in the country. If you intend to use it abroad, your CENOMAR must also be authenticated and apostilled by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

This guide explains everything you need to know about securing your PSA CENOMAR, having it authenticated, and processing your DFA Apostille.

How to Get a CENOMAR?

A CENOMAR (Certificate of No Marriage Record) is one of the most requested documents issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). It certifies that a person has not contracted any marriage in the Philippines. This document is often required for marriage applications, employment abroad, visa processing, and other legal purposes.

You can request your CENOMAR directly from the PSA either online or by visiting a PSA outlet. When applying, you will need to provide your complete name, date of birth, and parents’ names. Processing usually takes a few working days, depending on the method of request.

Online Application Process

Applying for your CENOMAR online is convenient. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Visit the official PSA website.

2. Fill out the online application form.

3. Pay the required fee using your preferred payment method.

4. Wait for the confirmation email regarding your application status.

   
   

In-Person Application Process

If you prefer to apply in person, follow these steps:

1. Locate the nearest PSA outlet.

2. Bring valid identification and the necessary information.

3. Complete the application form at the outlet.

4. Pay the processing fee.

   
   

CENOMAR DFA Apostille for Use Abroad

If you are planning to use your CENOMAR outside the Philippines, the document must first be authenticated and then apostilled by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). The DFA Apostille certifies your CENOMAR for international use, replacing the old “red ribbon” authentication. Many foreign embassies and overseas employers require the PSA-issued CENOMAR with DFA Apostille as part of their standard documentation process.

• The Apostille confirms that the document came from the PSA.

• It is internationally recognized by over 100 countries that are part of the Hague Convention.

• Without an Apostille, many embassies, immigration offices, and foreign employers will not accept your PSA CENOMAR.

  
  

Steps to Obtain a DFA Apostille

To obtain a DFA Apostille for your CENOMAR, follow these steps:

1. Gather your CENOMAR and any required documents.

2. Visit the nearest DFA office or authorized service provider.

3. Submit your documents for authentication.

4. Pay the applicable fees.

5. Wait for the processing time, which usually takes a few days.

   
   

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much does a CENOMAR cost?

A PSA CENOMAR costs around PHP 210 per copy (excluding delivery fees if requested online).

2. How long is a CENOMAR valid?

A CENOMAR is generally considered valid for six months from the date of issuance, but this depends on the institution or embassy requiring it.

3. Can someone else request my CENOMAR?

Yes, an authorized representative can request your CENOMAR on your behalf by presenting a valid ID and an authorization letter.

4. Do I still need Embassy Attestation after DFA Apostille?

For countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention, the DFA Apostille is enough. However, for non-member countries (like the UAE, Qatar, or Saudi Arabia), you may still need Embassy or Consulate attestation after DFA authentication.

5. Can I use a CENOMAR for marriage abroad?

Yes, a PSA-issued and DFA-apostilled CENOMAR is usually required by foreign embassies for Filipino marriage applications abroad.

Conclusion

Navigating the process of obtaining a CENOMAR and the necessary DFA Apostille can seem daunting. However, with the right information and guidance, you can make it a smooth experience. Remember, having these documents ready is essential for various legal processes, especially when working or marrying abroad.

Need help to apply for CENOMAR with DFA apostille? Contact us now.

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