Foreign Divorce Registration in Poland

The process for recognizing a U.S. divorce as valid in Poland depends on the date the divorce decree was entered. Divorces granted before July 1, 2009 are recognized by the court, while divorces granted after July 1, 2009 are recognized by the Office of Civil Registration. Polish law requires that a foreign divorce decree be in full force and effect. Such certification is a separate document issued by the court that granted the divorce - it cannot be a letter from an attorney, or a court docket printout. Some courts refer to this document as a Certificate of No-Appeal or Certification by the Clerk of Court, and in some cases, courts may be hesitant to issue it because it is not a standard form.

Once the divorce is recognized in Poland, a note is added to the marriage record to reflect the termination of the marriage due to divorce, and the spouses’ marital status is updated from “married” to “divorced.”

Offices of Civil Registration typically process divorce recognition quickly if a complete and correct application with supporting documents is submitted. Court recognition, on the other hand, may take up to a year.

When visiting our office for assistance with divorce recognition, please bring your divorce decree, a copy of your marriage certificate, and, if possible, any available information about your former spouse.

What Is Foreign Divorce Registration in Poland?

Documents Required for Registration

Step-by-Step Process for Registering a Foreign Divorce

Why Registration Is Important and Legal Effects