Divorced abroad, or a foreign court ordered alimony or a debt to be paid? For that decision to work in Georgia — for example, for the divorce to be registered here or the alimony enforced — it usually has to be recognised in Georgia first.
Who recognises it
Under Article 68 of the Law on Private International Law, Georgia recognises foreign court decisions that have entered into force. Recognition is decided by the Supreme Court of Georgia.
When recognition is not needed
A decision in a marriage case does not need recognition if, when it was made, both spouses were citizens of the country whose authority made it. If at least one spouse is a Georgian citizen, recognition is usually needed.
When recognition can be refused
- The case falls under Georgia's exclusive jurisdiction
- A party was not properly summoned to court, or there were other procedural violations
- A Georgian court has already decided the same dispute, or the same case is pending in Georgia
- Under Georgian law the foreign court was not competent to hear the case
- That country does not recognise Georgian court decisions
- The decision contradicts the fundamental principles of Georgian law
The documents you need
- A copy of the court decision
- Proof that the decision has entered into force
- Proof that the other party was properly summoned
- An apostille or consular legalisation, depending on the country (documents from some countries need neither)
- A certified Georgian translation
Recognition and enforcement
Recognition and enforcement are different things. If the decision requires money to be paid — alimony or a debt, for example — enforcement is a separate step. A lawyer plans both together so no time is lost.
Legal basis
Official texts (in Georgian) — Legislative Herald of Georgia, matsne.gov.ge.
This article is general information and does not replace advice from a lawyer on your specific case.
Every case is different — don't rely on general information. Contact a lawyer for advice.
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