Plain answers to common legal questions
General information on Singapore law, written in everyday language. Read up before you decide anything, then speak with a lawyer about your own situation.
Divorce guides
How divorce works in Singapore, from whether you can file to how the home, the children and the finances are dealt with.
Getting started
7 articles
Understanding Divorce in Singapore
Divorce is a complex and emotionally challenging process that many couples go through. In Singapore, understanding the legal aspects of divorce is crucial, as it can greatly affect your life, your assets, and the well-being of your family. In this blog article, we will delve into the intricacies of family law and divorce in Singapore, covering the legal procedures, grounds for divorce, and key considerations.
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Am I eligible to file for divorce in Singapore?
Before the court will hear a divorce, you need to have been married long enough, have a real connection to Singapore, and (if you have young children) complete the Co-Parenting Programme.
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What are the legal grounds for divorce in Singapore?
There is only one ground for divorce in Singapore: the marriage has irretrievably broken down. You prove it with one of six facts.
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What is Divorce by Mutual Agreement (DMA)?
Divorce by Mutual Agreement lets couples who both accept the marriage is over divorce without either spouse being blamed. It has been available in Singapore since 1 July 2024.
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Can I file for divorce on the ground of adultery?
Yes. Adultery is one of the six facts that prove a marriage has broken down, but it has to be proved, and how long you keep living together after finding out matters.
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Can I get a divorce if my spouse refuses?
Yes. Your spouse cannot stop a divorce simply by refusing to agree. If you can prove the marriage has irretrievably broken down, the court can grant the divorce.
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Can foreigners divorce in Singapore, and what happens to my pass?
Foreigners can divorce in Singapore if one spouse is domiciled here or has lived here habitually for three years. Divorce can also affect immigration status, so plan for both together.
Read the guideThe process
6 articles
What's the difference between a contested and an uncontested divorce?
In an uncontested divorce, you agree on everything: the divorce and all the terms. In a contested divorce, you disagree on at least one issue, and the court decides what you can't agree.
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How long does a divorce take in Singapore?
An uncontested divorce typically takes around four to six months from filing to Final Judgment. A contested divorce commonly takes six to eighteen months, and sometimes longer.
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Do I have to appear in court for a divorce?
For an uncontested divorce, you usually won't need to attend court. In a contested divorce, you are likely to attend mediation and some hearings, and your lawyer will prepare you for each one.
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What is divorce mediation, and can it help me?
Mediation is a confidential process in which a neutral mediator helps you and your spouse reach your own agreement. It is usually faster, cheaper, and less stressful than a contested hearing.
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Do I need a lawyer to get divorced in Singapore?
You are not required to have a lawyer, and you can file in person. But because a divorce settles your assets, home, and children's arrangements for years, most people find advice worth having.
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How much does a divorce cost in Singapore?
The cost depends mainly on whether your divorce is uncontested or contested. Uncontested divorces are usually quoted as a fixed fee; contested matters vary widely with complexity.
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2 articles
How are custody, care and control decided in a Singapore divorce?
The court's paramount concern is your child's welfare. Custody is usually shared, while day-to-day care and control is often given to one parent with access for the other.
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What is the Co-Parenting Programme (CPP)?
The Co-Parenting Programme helps divorcing parents understand how divorce affects children and how to co-parent. Parents of children under 21 generally must complete it before filing.
Read the guideMoney and property
2 articles
How are matrimonial assets divided in a Singapore divorce?
The court divides matrimonial assets in proportions it finds just and equitable, weighing both financial contributions and contributions to the family, such as homemaking and raising children.
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What happens to your HDB flat and CPF in a divorce?
The HDB flat and CPF monies are often the largest assets in a Singapore divorce. HDB and CPF rules limit what can be done with them, so the options need to be checked before you agree a split.
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