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 and the authorization letter to obtain your Marriage Licence.