Recognition of Foreign Divorces in Cyprus – A Legal Guide for the Cypriot Diaspora
Introduction
If you are a Cypriot citizen or have connections to Cyprus and have obtained a divorce abroad, it is often essential to have it recognized in Cyprus — especially if you wish to:
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Update civil status in the Cyprus Civil Registry
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Remarry in Cyprus or the Orthodox Church
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Resolve inheritance, custody, or property matters
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Comply with immigration, pension, or insurance regulations
⚖️ Legal Framework
Foreign divorce recognition in Cyprus is governed by:
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Family Courts Law (Law 23/1990)
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Civil Procedure Rules
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Brussels II bis Regulation (if from an EU country before Brexit)
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Bilateral international agreements
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Principles of private international law and reciprocity
Which Divorces Can Be Recognized?
✅ Recognition is possible for:
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Final, legally binding divorce decrees
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Issued by a competent foreign court
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Where both parties had proper representation or notice
❌ Cyprus may refuse recognition if:
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The divorce violates public order or essential Cypriot legal principles
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The judgment is not final or enforceable
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There was a lack of jurisdiction or fraud
Required Documents
To apply for recognition of a foreign divorce, you will need:
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Certified copy of the foreign divorce decree
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Apostille (if not from an EU country)
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Official translation into Greek (by a sworn translator or certified body)
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Marriage certificate
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Proof of Cypriot nationality or residence
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Affidavit or application to the Family Court
⚖️ Procedure in Cyprus
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File an application for recognition with the Cyprus Family Court
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Submit the supporting documents
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The court may require testimony or written clarifications
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Once recognized, you receive a court order confirming the validity
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This order may be used to update civil registry records and other documents
⏳ Timeline: On average 3–6 months, depending on complexity and jurisdiction
U.S. Divorce Recognition Example
A Cypriot citizen obtains a divorce in New York and wants to:
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Update their marital status in Cyprus
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Register a new marriage in the Orthodox Church or local municipality
Process:
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The U.S. divorce must be submitted to the Cyprus Family Court
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Apostilled, translated, and supported by an affidavit
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Once recognized, it becomes equivalent to a Cypriot court judgment
How E. CHATZIDIMITRIOU LLC Can Help
Our firm offers full legal support to clients living abroad:
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Preparation and submission of the divorce recognition petition
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Collection and authentication of required documents
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Representation in Family Court proceedings
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Liaising with U.S. or foreign attorneys, if needed
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Assistance with registry updates, church documentation, or future legal actions
All services can be handled remotely via Power of Attorney.
Contact Us Today
www.hatzidimitriouvirtuallaw.com
Email: info@hatzidimitriouvirtuallaw.com
U.S. Phone: +13474034789
Have you divorced abroad? Let us help you make it legally valid in Cyprus — without stepping off U.S. soil.