Judicial Recognition of Foreign Divorce in the Philippines

For many Filipinos married to non-citizens, obtaining a divorce overseas is only the first step in a longer legal journey.

Under the provisions of the Family Code, specifically Article 26, the Philippine government allows for the recognition of a divorce validly obtained abroad by a foreign spouse.

Understanding Article 26 of the Family Code

However, when a foreign divorce decree is issued, it does not automatically change the Filipino spouse's status in the PSA (Philippine Statistics Authority).

To be legally considered single again, you must file a petition for recognition of foreign divorce in the Philippines.

What You Need to Prepare

The court requires "prima facie" evidence of the foreign divorce and the foreign law that allows it.

Essential Documents Include:

Certified True Copy of the Divorce Decree: The official document proving the marriage was dissolved.

Apostilled/Authenticated Copy of the Foreign Divorce Law: Evidence that the divorce is valid under the foreign spouse's national legislation.

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 cost of recognition of foreign divorce in philippines the Philippines

Navigating the judicial system involves several critical phases:

Hiring Legal Counsel: You will need a lawyer to draft and file the petition in the RTC.

article 26 family code philippines divorce 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 petition for recognition of foreign divorce philippines 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?

Generally, you should expect to pay for: divorce in us recognized in philippines

Attorney’s Fees: This is usually the largest portion of the expense.

Filing Fees: Paid directly to the court.

Newspaper Publication: A mandatory step in the judicial process.

Translation and Authentication: For documents not in English or issued by non-Apostille countries.

Final Thoughts

By understanding Article 26 of the Family Code, you can finally move forward with your life with the peace of mind that your civil status is divorce in us recognized in philippines correctly updated.