View all text of Subpart C [§ 219.30 - § 219.44]
§ 219.31 - Evidence of a valid ceremonial marriage.
(a) Preferred evidence. Preferred evidence of a ceremonial marriage is—
(1) A copy of the public record of the marriage, certified by the custodian of the record or by a Board employee;
(2) A copy of a church record of the marriage certified by the custodian of the record or by a Board employee; or
(3) The original certificate of marriage.
(b) Other evidence of a ceremonial marriage. If preferred evidence of a ceremonial marriage cannot be obtained, the applicant must state the reason therefor in writing and submit either—
(1) A sworn statement of the clergyman or official who performed the marriage ceremony; or
(2) Other convincing evidence, such as the sworn statements of at least two persons who have direct knowledge of the marriage, preferably eyewitnesses to the marriage ceremony.