Recognising a German, Austrian or Swiss divorce in Turkey
Divorced in Germany, Austria or Switzerland but still married on paper in Turkey? Why recognition matters and how the procedure works.
A divorce judgment from Germany, Austria or Switzerland does not automatically take effect in Turkey. Until it is recognised there, a Turkish citizen may still be recorded as married in the Turkish civil register.
Why is recognition needed? • So that the civil register (nüfus) shows the status divorced • To be able to remarry in Turkey • For inheritance, name changes and property matters • So that documents in both countries match
This mainly concerns Turkish citizens, dual nationals and marriages registered in Turkey.
Recognition and enforcement
Turkish law distinguishes between recognition (tanıma) and enforcement (tenfiz). For civil status, recognition is usually enough. If enforceable parts such as maintenance are involved, an enforcement decision may be needed. The competent court is generally the family court (aile mahkemesi).
The court procedure
An application is filed with the competent court, usually by a Turkish lawyer acting under a power of attorney. The other spouse is involved in the proceedings. Among other things, the court checks whether the judgment is final, whether the parties' rights of defence were respected and whether it conflicts with Turkish public policy. Personal attendance is not always required.
Administrative route
For certain divorces by mutual consent, the foreign judgment can be entered in the register administratively via the civil registry or a consulate when both spouses apply together. Have it checked in advance whether your case qualifies.
Typical documents
- Divorce judgment with confirmation that it is final
- Apostille on the judgment
- Certified Turkish translation of the judgment and the apostille
- Identity documents and, if applicable, a power of attorney for the lawyer
Status 2026 – please check current rules before applying. The duration or outcome cannot be predicted in advance.
How Türkei App helps
Book a Turkish lawyer in the app to review your documents and prepare the recognition application. Our AI assistant answers general questions.
General information, not individual legal advice.