Last updated: November 1, 2026
Generally, no. If you were divorced outside Canada, you must obtain Foreign Divorce Authorization before an Ontario marriage licence can be issued.
You can prepare your marriage licence application while waiting, but submitting the application is not the same as receiving a licence.
If your wedding is coming up, here's how the process works and what you can do to avoid delays.
Why do I need Foreign Divorce Authorization first?
Ontario requires additional verification when someone applying for a marriage licence was previously divorced outside Canada.
Under section 8(3) of Ontario's Marriage Act, a marriage licence generally cannot be issued until written authorization has been obtained.
This applies even if you have a valid divorce certificate from another country.
For example, if you were divorced in Turkey, India or Pakistan and now want to remarry in Toronto, you'll generally need Foreign Divorce Authorization before the municipality can issue your marriage licence.
The authorization confirms that the government has reviewed the required documentation for the Ontario marriage-licence process. It is not a new divorce.
Can I start my marriage licence application while waiting?
Yes. In fact, a completed and signed marriage licence application is part of the Foreign Divorce Authorization package.
However, you cannot normally collect your marriage licence until the authorization has been issued.
The process usually follows these steps:
- Gather your foreign divorce documents. You'll need your divorce decree or certificate and an appropriate translation if it isn't in English or French.
- Obtain a foreign divorce opinion letter. An Ontario lawyer reviews your documents and explains why the divorce should be recognized in Ontario.
- Submit your Foreign Divorce Authorization package. This includes your marriage licence application, Statement of Sole Responsibility, legal opinion letter and divorce documentation.
- Wait for authorization. Once approved, you can proceed with obtaining your marriage licence from the municipality, subject to its requirements.
For a closer look at the documents, see What Is a Foreign Divorce Authorization in Ontario?.
How long should I allow before my wedding?
Ontario advises that processing foreign divorce documents may take up to four weeks.
That's the government's processing guidance, not a guaranteed turnaround time. You should also allow time for your lawyer to review the divorce, prepare the opinion letter and address any missing documents.
If your divorce certificate needs translation or your marital history raises legal questions, preparation may take longer.
It's best to start the process before making non-refundable wedding arrangements.
You can check the current requirements on Ontario's official marriage information page.
What if my wedding date is approaching?
If you're still waiting for authorization, contact ServiceOntario's Marriage Office to check the status of your application.
You can also ask your lawyer whether anything is missing or whether additional information has been requested.
Don't assume that submitting the application means you're cleared to marry. You need the required authorization and a properly issued marriage licence before proceeding with a licence-based ceremony.
If you're facing a delay, speak with your municipality and wedding officiant before finalizing your plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I book my wedding before receiving Foreign Divorce Authorization?
You can make wedding arrangements, but booking a venue doesn't guarantee that you'll receive authorization or a marriage licence in time.
Can my Ontario lawyer issue the authorization?
No. Your lawyer prepares the legal opinion letter. The Foreign Divorce Authorization is issued through the Ontario government.
Can I use my foreign divorce certificate instead of an opinion letter?
Generally, no. Ontario requires a legal opinion letter as part of the Foreign Divorce Authorization package, along with the other required documents.
Need Your Foreign Divorce Opinion Letter?
If you're planning to remarry in Ontario, getting your foreign divorce documents reviewed early can help you avoid unnecessary delays.
ForeignDivorceOpinion.com is operated by ABALAW Professional Corporation, a licensed Ontario law firm. We prepare foreign divorce opinion letters for clients across Ontario, with remote service available.
Start Your Foreign Divorce Document Review →
This article provides general legal information, not legal advice. Requirements and timelines depend on your circumstances and the applicable Ontario procedures.
