For many Filipinos married to non-citizens, obtaining a divorce overseas is only the first step in a longer legal journey.
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?
The Philippine legal system follows the nationality principle, meaning Philippine laws follow its citizens wherever they go.
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.
Key Requirements for Foreign Divorce Recognition
Success in your petition depends heavily on the documentation you provide to the Regional Trial Court (RTC).
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.
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 Philippines
The process of how to recognize foreign divorce in the Philippines typically follows these steps:
recognition of foreign divorce in philippines cost Engagement of a Lawyer: Since this is a judicial process, legal representation is mandatory.
Court Filing: Your petition for recognition of foreign divorce philippines 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 law.
Finality and PSA Annotation: After the court's decision becomes final, your PSA marriage record will be annotated to show the divorce.
Cost of Recognition of Foreign Divorce in the Philippines
One of the most frequent questions is: what is recognition of foreign divorce in philippines cost the cost of recognition of foreign divorce in the Philippines?
Generally, you should expect to pay for:
Attorney’s Fees: This is usually the largest portion of the expense.
Court Costs: Standard administrative fees for filing a civil case.
Publication Costs: The law requires the petition to be published in a newspaper petition for recognition of foreign divorce philippines of general circulation.
Translation and Authentication: For documents not in English or issued by non-Apostille countries.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are dealing with a foreign divorce decree Philippines from Europe, Asia, or the Americas, following the correct legal recognition of foreign divorce in philippines cost steps is crucial.