Register Foreign Divorce in France

This service is designed for English-speaking individuals who obtained a divorce outside of France and need it to be legally recognised and registered in France. This includes:

• French citizens divorced abroad who wish to update their civil status

• Foreign nationals who now reside in France and need legal recognition of a prior divorce

• Individuals seeking to remarry in France or update records for inheritance, tax, or immigration purposes

Without registration, a foreign divorce may not be legally effective in France and can prevent actions like remarriage, property transactions, or inheritance settlements.

For Divorces from EU Countries (Except Denmark)

• Divorces granted in EU countries, except Denmark, after March 1, 2001, are generally recognized in France without the need for a specific procedure, thanks to the European Regulation (CE) n°2201/2003, also known as "Brussels II bis".
• This recognition applies as long as the divorce was issued by a competent foreign court and is not contrary to French public order.
• To have the divorce recognized, you need to present a copy of the foreign divorce decision and a certificate issued by the jurisdiction of the EU member state where the decision was made. This documentation must establish the authenticity of the decision

For Divorces from Non-EU Countries and Denmark

• Divorces granted in non-EU countries or Denmark require a verification process called 'opposabilité' by the French prosecutor (Procureur de la République). This process checks the regularity of the foreign decision in line with French law.
• The required documents typically include a full copy of the divorce decision, proof of the decision's finality, a French translation by an accredited translator, and proof of the domicile and nationality of the parties at the time the divorce case was initiated.
• If the foreign decision is deemed 'opposable' in France, the French prosecutor will instruct the relevant civil registry office to update their records with the divorce decision.
• In cases where a divorce decision involves financial consequences, such as alimony, an 'exequatur' procedure may be required to enforce the decision in France​​​​.

1. Initial Consultation: We begin with an in-depth discussion to understand the specifics of your case, including the country where the divorce was granted and any complexities involved.
2. Document Assessment: We'll guide you in gathering and preparing all necessary documents, such as the original divorce decree and any accompanying certifications.
3. Translation Services: If required, we arrange for the translation of your documents by a certified translator, ensuring compliance with French legal standards.
4. Determination of Applicable Procedure: We'll identify whether your case falls under EU regulations or requires the 'opposabilité' verification or 'exequatur' procedure in France.
5. Legal Representation: If necessary, we provide legal representation to navigate the French legal system, including interactions with the Procureur de la République and civil registry offices.
6. Submission of Applications: We handle the submission of all applications and documents to the relevant French authorities.
7. Follow-up and Updates: We offer continuous updates on the status of your application and any additional steps needed.

• Expertise in French and EU Law: Our team's proficiency in both French and European Union legal frameworks ensures a comprehensive approach to your case.
• Bespoke Legal Strategies: We develop customized strategies that cater to the unique aspects of your divorce and personal circumstances.
• Efficient Document Handling: Our efficient management of necessary documentation, including translations, streamlines the process.
• Navigational Assistance: We guide you through the complex legal landscape of France, simplifying the recognition process.
• Transparent Communication: We maintain clear and consistent communication, keeping you informed at every stage of the process.
• Focus on Compliance: Ensuring that all applications and documents comply with the specific requirements of French law.
• Dedicated Support: Our commitment to providing dedicated support aims to minimize stress and uncertainty throughout the process.

• Legal review of foreign divorce documentation

• Translation and legalisation coordination

• Exequatur proceedings where required

• Submission to French civil status authorities (France or abroad)

• Tracking and follow-up of transcription process

• Advice on related civil, tax, or family law consequences

• English-speaking French lawyer support throughout