So… you’re thinking about divorce, or maybe you’re just trying to understand how it all works in Singapore. Either way, take a breath. This process can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone—and more importantly, you’re not without guidance.
Let’s walk through it together. I’ll break it down step by step, and we’ll skip the jargon where we can.
🧭 First Things First: Can You Get Divorced in Singapore?
Before you even get into the nitty-gritty, you’ve got to check if you meet the basic requirements. Think of this as the “Are you eligible?” test.
To file for divorce in Singapore, at least one of you must:
- Be a Singapore citizen, or
- Be domiciled in Singapore, or
- Have lived here for at least 3 years before filing.
And here’s the next key point: your marriage must be at least 3 years old. There are exceptions, especially in cases of hardship or cruelty, but for most people, this time limit applies.
💔 The Only Legal Reason for Divorce? Irretrievable Breakdown.
In Singapore, you can’t just say “we drifted apart” or “we’re not in love anymore” and walk away. You have to prove that the marriage has irretrievably broken down—and the law gives you four ways to do that:
- Adultery: Your spouse cheated, and you find it intolerable to live with them.
- Unreasonable Behaviour: Your spouse made life so difficult that you can’t reasonably be expected to stay in the marriage.
- Desertion: They left you and haven’t come back—for at least 2 years.
- Separation: You’ve lived apart for 3 years (with consent) or 4 years (no consent needed).
This is where it helps to gather evidence or make sure your story is clear—because the courts need to be convinced that your marriage really can’t be saved.
👶 What About the Kids?
If you have children under 21, the court’s biggest concern is their welfare.
Here’s how the law breaks it down:
- Custody: This is about who makes the big decisions (schooling, religion, medical issues). Usually, courts prefer joint custody, so both parents have a say.
- Care and Control: This means who the child lives with day-to-day. The other parent usually gets access time.
- Access: The right of the parent without care and control to spend time with the child. This could be weekends, holidays, or regular scheduled visits.
You can suggest an arrangement, or the court can decide based on what’s best for the child. Mediation is common here to help parents devise a plan without a messy fight.
💸 Splitting Assets (Yep, It Gets Complicated)
Let’s talk matrimonial assets. This includes:
- The family home
- Joint savings
- CPF monies used for the home
- Cars, investments, businesses (if acquired during the marriage)
- Even furniture and things bought together
The court looks at each person’s contributions—financial and non-financial (yes, homemaking and childcare count!). Then it decides what’s fair, not just what’s equal.
If both of you can agree on the split, great! If not, the court steps in.
⚖️ Two Phases of the Divorce Process
You’re not just handed a divorce with a single form. The process is split into two stages:
- Dissolution of marriage: The court agrees that your marriage has ended.
- Ancillary matters: This is where they sort out kids, assets, maintenance, etc.
You’ll need to file various documents, attend court sessions (possibly mediation), and present your case clearly. If it’s uncontested, it’s faster. Contested divorces take longer and are more stressful—so if you and your spouse can come to a mutual agreement, it really helps.
Read more: Divorce Process Explained with the Help of Flowchart
🛑 Bonus Tip: Don’t Do It Alone
Even though this is a legal process, it’s also an emotional journey. Consider getting a lawyer—especially if there are kids, property, or if the other party isn’t cooperative.
There are plenty of divorce blogs and online resources that can guide you through each stage of the divorce process. If you’re unsure where to start, these are a most helpful first step.
Divorce is not just a legal exit; it’s a huge personal transition. But with the right info, support, and clarity, it’s a road you can walk with confidence.
If you’re at this crossroads, remember: clarity, calmness, and care go a long way. Take it one step at a time—and don’t be afraid to ask questions. You’re not alone.
