Foreign Divorce Opinion Letter Ontario: Is Your Divorce Valid to Remarry?
If you were divorced outside Canada and plan to remarry in Ontario, you will likely need a foreign divorce opinion letter. At Niam Law Professional Corporation, we prepare fast, reliable opinion letters confirming whether your foreign divorce is valid under Canadian law — so you can get your Ontario marriage licence without delays.
Siddharth Tomar
5/9/20252 min read
Foreign Divorce Opinion Letter Ontario: Is Your Divorce Valid to Remarry?
If you divorced outside Ontario or Canada and plan to remarry here in Ontario, you may wonder:
👉 “Is my divorce valid in Ontario?”
👉 “Do I need a foreign divorce opinion letter?”
In many cases, the answer is yes — you will need a foreign divorce opinion letter from an Ontario lawyer to get a marriage licence.
What is a Foreign Divorce Opinion Letter?
A foreign divorce opinion letter is a legal letter from an Ontario lawyer confirming that your divorce is valid under Canadian law.
Who Needs It?
If you were divorced outside Canada and want to get married in Ontario, you must get authorization from the Minister of Government Services before a marriage licence can be issued. Here’s what you need to submit:
A completed and signed Ontario marriage licence application (both parties).
The original or certified copy of the foreign divorce (with a certified translation if not in English or French).
A Statement of Sole Responsibility for each divorce, signed and witnessed.
A legal opinion letter from an Ontario lawyer addressed to both applicants, confirming the divorce is valid in Ontario and explaining why.
This applies no matter how long ago the divorce happened.
What Documents Do You Need?
✅ Original or certified divorce decree
✅ English or French translation (if needed)
✅ Details on your or your ex-spouse's connection to the country (residency, citizenship)
✅ Completed marriage licence application (if available)
✅ Past marriage certificates (if requested)
How It Works
Consult a Lawyer
Bring your divorce papers and background info.Document Review
The lawyer checks if your divorce meets Ontario and Canadian legal standards.Letter Preparation
The lawyer drafts a formal opinion letter for the municipal marriage office.Submit & Apply
You file the letter with your marriage licence application.
Timeline & Fees
✅ Typical turnaround: Same day (if documents are complete)
✅ Fees start from $395 + tax
Why Work with an Experienced Lawyer?
Foreign divorces aren’t always recognized automatically. A lawyer opinion letter is attached to get your marriage license.
☎ Call or email today to book your consultation!
We make the process fast, clear, and stress-free.
Email: info@niamlaw.ca
Phone: +1 416-333-4656
✅ FAQ
Q: Do I always need a lawyer for a foreign divorce opinion letter?
Yes, for foreign divorces, the Ontario government requires a lawyer’s opinion letter to approve your marriage licence.
Q: How long does the process take?
If all documents are ready, typically the same day.