If you are a Filipino citizen who was married to a foreigner and has since obtained a divorce abroad, you likely know that divorce is not technically "legal" within Philippine borders.
Understanding the judicial recognition of foreign divorce in the Philippines is essential for any Filipino looking to update their civil status and regain the capacity to remarry.
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).
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
Success in your petition depends heavily on the documentation you provide to the Regional Trial Court (RTC).
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.
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 recognition of foreign divorce in philippines cost Recognize Foreign Divorce in the Philippines
Navigating the judicial system involves several critical phases:
Engagement of a 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.
The Hearing Phase: The court will schedule hearings to verify the documents and testimony.
Finality and PSA Annotation: After the court's decision becomes final, your PSA marriage article 26 family code philippines divorce record will be annotated 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.
The total expenses can vary significantly based on the complexity of the case and the foreign divorce philippines requirements lawyer's fees.
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.
Translation and Authentication: For documents not in foreign divorce philippines English or issued by non-Apostille countries.
Final Thoughts
Securing a judicial recognition of foreign divorce in the Philippines is the only foreign divorce philippines requirements way to ensure your legal records are accurate.