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?
Because there is no absolute divorce law in the Philippines, a Filipino citizen cannot simply file for divorce.
Whether it is a divorce in the US recognized in the Philippines or a divorce in Korea recognized in the Philippines, the procedure remains largely the same: you must prove the divorce happened and that it was valid under the foreign spouse's national law.
What You Need to Prepare
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.
Proof of Foreign Law: You must prove that the law of the foreigner's country allows for divorce.
Marriage Record: A PSA-issued Marriage Certificate or Report of Marriage.
Identification Documents: Valid passports and birth records.
The Process: How to Recognize Foreign Divorce in 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.
Filing the Petition: The case is cost of recognition of foreign divorce in philippines filed in the province or city where the petitioner resides or where the marriage was recorded.
Trial and Evidence: You (or your representative) will present the evidence of the divorce and the foreign law.
Finality and PSA Annotation: After the court's decision becomes final, your PSA marriage record will be annotated divorce filipino citizen married to foreigner to show the divorce.
Cost of Recognition of Foreign Divorce in the Philippines
Many applicants are concerned about the recognition of foreign divorce in Philippines cost.
There is no fixed price, as several factors influence the total how to recognize foreign divorce in philippines investment.
Legal Fees: Charges for the lawyer’s expertise and representation.
Filing Fees: Paid directly to the court.
Newspaper Publication: A mandatory step in the judicial process.
Apostille and Translation Services: Ensuring your foreign documents are how to recognize foreign divorce in philippines legally petition for recognition of foreign divorce philippines recognized in the Philippines.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are dealing with a foreign divorce decree Philippines from Europe, Asia, or the Americas, following the correct legal steps is crucial.