For many Filipinos married to non-citizens, obtaining a divorce overseas is only the first step in a longer legal journey.
However, thanks to Article 26 of the Family Code of the Philippines, there is a clear legal pathway to having your foreign marriage dissolution acknowledged.
What is the Recognition of Foreign Divorce in the Philippines?
The Philippine legal system follows the nationality principle, meaning Philippine laws follow its citizens wherever they go.
To be legally considered single again, you must file a petition for recognition of foreign divorce in the Philippines.
Key Requirements for Foreign Divorce Recognition
The court requires "prima facie" evidence of the foreign divorce and the foreign law that allows it.
Common Requirements:
The Foreign Divorce Decree: This must be an authentic copy issued by the foreign court or authority.
Apostilled/Authenticated Copy of the Foreign Divorce Law: Evidence that the divorce is valid under the foreign spouse's national legislation.
PSA Marriage Contract: The official record of the marriage you are seeking to dissolve.
Identification Documents: Valid passports and birth records.
The Process: How to Recognize Foreign Divorce in recognition of foreign divorce philippines the Philippines
The process of how to recognize foreign divorce in the Philippines typically follows these steps:
Engagement of a Lawyer: Since this is a judicial process, legal representation is mandatory.
Court Filing: Your lawyer submits the petition for recognition of foreign divorce Philippines to the appropriate court.
Trial and Evidence: You (or your representative) will present the evidence of the divorce and the foreign cost of recognition of foreign divorce in philippines law.
Judgment and Registration: Once the court grants the petition, the decree must be registered with the PSA and the Civil Registrar.
Cost of Recognition of Foreign foreign divorce decree philippines Divorce in the Philippines
One of the most frequent questions is: what is the cost of recognition of foreign divorce in the Philippines?
recognition of foreign divorce philippines There is no fixed price, as several factors influence the total investment.
Legal Fees: Charges for the lawyer’s expertise and representation.
Filing Fees: Paid directly to the court.
Publication Costs: The law requires the petition to be published in a newspaper recognition of divorce in the philippines of general circulation.
Translation and Authentication: For documents not in English or issued by non-Apostille countries.
Final Thoughts
Securing a judicial recognition of foreign divorce in the Philippines is the only way to ensure your legal records are accurate.