Singapore Divorce Process: Complete Guide

Understanding Singapore's Divorce Laws

Singapore follows a fault-based divorce system under the Women's Charter. To file for divorce, you must prove that your marriage has irretrievably broken down based on specific grounds recognized by Singapore law.

Grounds for Divorce in Singapore

• Adultery: Your spouse has committed adultery and you find it intolerable to live with them
• Unreasonable Behavior: Your spouse has behaved in such a way that you cannot reasonably be expected to live with them
• Desertion: Your spouse has deserted you for a continuous period of at least 2 years
• Separation (3 years with consent): You have lived apart for at least 3 years and your spouse consents to the divorce
• Separation (4 years without consent): You have lived apart for at least 4 years

Step-by-Step Divorce Process

Step 1: Meet the Requirements

Before filing for divorce in Singapore, ensure you meet these requirements:

• Married for at least 3 years (exceptions may apply)
• Either spouse is domiciled in Singapore, or
• Either spouse has been habitually resident in Singapore for at least 3 years

Step 2: Prepare Documentation

Gather all necessary documents including:

• Marriage certificate
• Identity cards/passports
• Children's birth certificates (if applicable)
• Financial documents
• Evidence supporting your grounds for divorce

Step 3: File the Writ for Divorce

Submit your divorce application to the Family Justice Courts. The filing fee is currently $600 for Singapore citizens and $900 for non-citizens.

Step 4: Serve the Papers

Your spouse must be formally served with the divorce papers. They have 8 days to file their response if they wish to contest the divorce.

Step 5: Interim Judgment

If uncontested, the court may grant an interim judgment. For contested cases, a trial will be scheduled to determine the outcome.

Step 6: Ancillary Matters

Issues such as child custody, division of assets, and maintenance must be resolved before the final judgment.

Step 7: Final Judgment

Once all matters are settled, the court will grant the final judgment, officially dissolving your marriage.

Timeline and Costs

Uncontested Divorce: 4-6 months, costs range from $3,000-$8,000
Contested Divorce: 12-24 months, costs range from $15,000-$50,000+

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

• Difficulty serving papers to an uncooperative spouse
• Disputes over child custody arrangements
• Complex asset division issues
• International elements complicating the process