Dealing with a foreign divorce decree in the Philippines can be a complex and often confusing process for many overseas Filipinos.
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
Before heading to court, you must gather specific foreign divorce Philippines requirements.
Essential Documents Include:
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 how to recognize foreign divorce in philippines Foreign Divorce in the Philippines
The process of how to recognize foreign divorce in the Philippines typically follows these steps:
Engagement of a Lawyer: Since this is a judicial process, legal representation is mandatory.
Filing the cost of recognition of foreign divorce in philippines Petition: The case is filed in the province or city where the petitioner divorce filipino citizen married to foreigner resides or where the marriage was recorded.
Trial and Evidence: You (or your foreign divorce philippines requirements 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
Budgeting for this legal procedure is vital for Filipinos living abroad.
Generally, you should expect to pay for:
Attorney’s Fees: This is usually the largest portion of the expense.
Filing Fees: Paid divorce in korea recognized in philippines directly to the court.
Newspaper Publication: A mandatory step in the judicial process.
Apostille and Translation Services: Ensuring your foreign documents are legally recognized in the Philippines.
Final Thoughts
Securing a judicial recognition of foreign divorce in the Philippines is the only way to ensure your legal records are accurate.