Divorce certificate

Published: 01 January 2012 Modified: 17 January 2012

A copy of a divorce certificate is written proof that two people are no longer married to one another.

What is it?

A divorce certificate is proof that two people are divorced and that this divorce is recorded in the registry of births, deaths and marriages. Please note that it may also be a copy of the marriage certificate with a subsequent addition stating that your marriage has been dissolved.

How does it work?

This transcript is only available in Dutch. If you would like proof of your divorce in another language, you can obtain an international extract of your marriage certificate stating the date of the divorce.

What are the conditions?

You may only request a coy or extract of a divorce certificate in the municipality where the marriage was performed.

If you were married abroad but you got divorced in the Netherlands, you can request a copy of the divorce certificate from the registry of births, deaths and marriages at the Municipality of The Hague.

Please note: In all cases, you will need to prove legitimate interest. This means that you may only submit an application:

for yourself
as an authorised representative
as a blood relative (parent or child)
as a beneficiary
as a registered partner or spouse
as a legal representative.

You can also submit this application if you need the document for a legal procedure or to register a partnership or marriage.

What will I need?

Digitally: DigiD. Please note: this option is for residents of the Netherlands only.
In person: proof of identity. Are you requesting a copy or international extract on behalf of someone else? You will also need to bring along this person’s proof of identity (original or copy). You will also need the person’s express written authorisation.
In writing: a letter signed by you and a copy of your proof of identity. Please state your reason for requesting the document.

PDF file Written authorisation form (PDF, 37 kB)

How much will it cost?

€ 11.80 (excluding postage costs for a request in writing, for which you will receive an invoice).

How long will it take?

Digitally: 3 days
In person: maximum 5 working days for certificates after 1986 and 5 working days for certificates before 1986
In writing and with permission: 10 working days

How do I apply/What do I need to do?

Digitally: via DigiD.

Digital application

In person: at one of the sub-municipal offices. Please note: If the certificate was issued more than 75 years ago, then you need to apply at the Municipal Archives.
In writing: use the divorce certificate application form.

Divorce certificate application form (PDF)