If your divorce isn’t automatically recognized, don’t panic. Here’s how you can apply for foreign divorce authorization step by step.
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
You’ll need:
📌 Your original foreign divorce certificate (translated if not in English or French)
📌 A legal opinion letter from a Canadian lawyer confirming the validity of your divorce
📌 A completed marriage license application (if you’re applying to remarry)
📌 Any supporting documents related to your divorce
💡 Tip: If you lost your divorce certificate, contact the foreign court where the divorce was granted to get a certified copy.
Step 2: Get a Foreign Divorce Opinion Letter
This is where things get a bit legal. You’ll need a Foreign Divorce Opinion Letter from a Canadian family lawyer.
This letter confirms that your divorce meets Canada’s legal requirements and helps the government decide whether to approve your foreign divorce authorization.
A lawyer will review:
✔ Where the divorce was granted
✔ Whether your ex-spouse lived there for at least a year
✔ If the divorce follows international legal standards
At Key Family Law, we specialize in foreign divorce opinion letters and can make this process quick and stress-free for you.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Once you have all your documents, submit your foreign divorce authorization application to the Office of the Registrar General in Ontario.
📍 Where to Apply:
Office of the Registrar General
189 Red River Road, PO Box 4600
Thunder Bay, Ontario P7B 6L8
⏳ Processing Time: It usually takes 4 to 6 weeks, but times can vary.
Step 4: Wait for Approval & Get Your Marriage License
If your foreign divorce authorization is approved, you’ll receive an official letter confirming that your divorce is recognized in Canada.
Now, you’re free to apply for a marriage license or update your marital status. 🎉
💡 Important Note: If your application is denied, you may need additional legal steps, like appealing the decision or getting a court order. A family lawyer can help if this happens.
Common Issues & How to Avoid Delays
Even a simple divorce process can run into complications. Here are some common problems and how to avoid them:
❌ Your Divorce Certificate is Rejected – Make sure your divorce certificate is certified and translated (if necessary).
❌ The Government Questions Your Divorce – A Foreign Divorce Opinion Letter can help clear up legal doubts.
❌ Processing Delays – Submit all required documents correctly to avoid rejections or extra wait time.
If you’re unsure about any step, getting help from a family lawyer can save you time, money, and stress.
Do You Need a Lawyer for Foreign Divorce Authorization?
Technically, you can handle the process yourself—but if you want to avoid mistakes and speed things up, a lawyer is a huge help.
A family lawyer can:
✔ Confirm if your foreign divorce is automatically recognized
✔ Provide a Foreign Divorce Opinion Letter
✔ Ensure you submit the correct legal documents
✔ Help if your application is denied
At Key Family Law, we’ve helped countless clients get their foreign divorces recognized in Canada. Whether you need an opinion letter, legal advice, or a full application review, we’re here to make the process simple.
Final Thoughts
If you got divorced outside of Canada and need it recognized here, you may need foreign divorce authorization—especially if you plan to remarry.
✔ If your divorce meets Canada’s requirements, it’s automatically recognized
✔ If not, you’ll need to apply for authorization and get a Foreign Divorce Opinion Letter
✔ Avoid delays by getting legal help from a family lawyer
Need assistance? Key Family Law can guide you through the process, ensuring a quick and stress-free experience.
📞 Contact us today for expert legal support in family law!