A foreign divorce kit verifies a divorce that took place outside of Canada, and may be obtained at the Municipal Offices. An authorization from the Minister of Consumer & Commercial Relations is needed before a Marriage Licence can be issued.
Requirements for authorization
To obtain an authorization from the Minister of Consumer and Commercial Relations, the applicant or a lawyer representing them must submit the following:
- A completed Marriage Licence Application [PDF/106KB] signed by both applicants.
- A copy of the Decree(s) of Divorce or Annulment (certified by the proper Court Officer in the jurisdiction where the divorce/annulment was granted or sealed by the Court). When the decree is a language other than English or French, a certified translation is also required.
- A Statement of Sole Responsibility for each divorce signed by both applicants and a blank Affidavit.
- A legal opinion of an Ontario Solicitor, addressed to both applicants, giving reasons why the divorce or annulment should be recognized in the Province of Ontario.
Note: In the event of the death of an ex-spouse after a divorce has been granted, and upon presentation of a valid Death Certificate, certain of the above requirements may not apply. For further information, please call 1-800-461-2156.
In addition to the above and in order to expedite this authorization, please note the following:
- The telephone number and return address where the couple can be contacted if further information is required should be enclosed
- If a courier is required, please purchase a prepaid envelope
After receiving the authorization from the Office of the Registrar General, return to your local municipal office with the completed marriage application [PDF/106KB] and the authorization letter to obtain your Marriage Licence.