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.
Understanding Article 26 of the Family Code
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.
What You Need to Prepare
Success in your petition depends heavily on the documentation you provide to the Regional Trial Court (RTC).
Common Requirements:
Certified True Copy of the Divorce Decree: The official document proving the marriage was dissolved.
Proof of Foreign Law: You must prove that the law of the foreigner's country allows for divorce.
PSA foreign divorce decree philippines 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:
Hiring Legal Counsel: You will need a lawyer to draft and file the petition in the RTC.
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.
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
Many applicants are concerned about the recognition of foreign divorce in korea recognized in philippines divorce in Philippines cost.
Costs typically include:
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 divorce in korea recognized in philippines judicial foreign divorce philippines requirements process.
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 divorce filipino citizen married to foreigner the Americas, following the correct legal steps is crucial.