Understanding the Requirements for an Expat Divorce in Singapore
“Can I divorce in Singapore if I got married abroad?” is a common query received by our International Divorce Lawyers in the globalised world we
Leading Expat Divorce Lawyer Team
Divorce Eligibility
Can you Divorce in Singapore?
If you are an expat considering filing for divorce in Singapore – that is, a divorce involving international elements – it is most important to establish that the family court of Singapore is able to deal with your divorce case.
In Singapore, the Family Court has jurisdiction over all marriage-related cases, including expat divorces in Singapore.
The Court’s jurisdiction covers Applications for Divorce, Personal Protection Orders, Property Settlement, Child/Spousal Maintenance, Parenting and Residence Living Arrangements with respect to children.
As long as there is a connection to Singapore, the Family Court is able to exercise its jurisdiction if required to do so.
International Divorce in Singapore
It is possible to apply for a Divorce in Singapore, even if your spouse is not currently living in Singapore.
You can commence divorce proceedings in Singapore if either you or your spouse:
- are Singaporean citizen by birth, or grant of Singapore citizenship, or
- ordinarily live in Singapore and have done so for 3 years immediately before filing for divorce
What if you do not meet the above requirements?
You and your spouse can consider waiting out the 3 year period and have your ancillary issues on property, maintenance/support, and custody agreed upon or mediated to draw up a Marital Agreement.
Before the 3 year mark, either party may apply for interim orders in relation to maintenance for wife and/or child, and other relevant orders in relation to children’s issues including, custody, care and control and access.
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