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?
However, when a foreign divorce decree is issued, it does not automatically change the Filipino spouse's status in the PSA (Philippine Statistics Authority).
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 foreign divorce decree philippines for divorce.
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 the recognition of foreign divorce in philippines cost Philippines
To successfully file your petition, you will generally follow this roadmap:
Engagement of a foreign divorce decree philippines Lawyer: Since this is a judicial process, legal representation is mandatory.
Filing the Petition: The case is 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.
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 Divorce in the Philippines
One of the most frequent questions is: what is the cost of recognition of foreign divorce in the Philippines?
The total expenses can vary significantly based on the complexity of the case and the lawyer's fees.
Legal divorce in korea recognized in philippines Fees: Charges for the lawyer’s expertise and representation.
Court Costs: Standard administrative fees for filing a civil case.
Publication Costs: The law requires the petition to be published in a newspaper of general circulation.
Apostille and Translation Services: Ensuring your foreign documents are legally recognized in the Philippines.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are dealing with a foreign divorce decree Philippines from Europe, Asia, cost of recognition of foreign divorce in philippines or the Americas, following the correct legal steps is crucial.