Singapore Divorce Guide: Laws, Process & Costs
Everything you need to know about divorce in Singapore.10 in-depth guides covering your rights, costs, and options.
Legal System
Common law (based on English law)
Divorce Type
Fault-based or 3–4 year separation
Waiting Period
3 years minimum marriage (unless exceptional hardship)
Average Cost
SGD $1,000–$50,000+
Property System
Just and equitable division
Residency
Domicile in Singapore at filing
Divorce Law in Singapore: Overview
Singapore's divorce law is strictly structured. Non-Muslims cannot divorce within 3 years of marriage unless they prove 'exceptional hardship or depravity.' The Women's Charter governs non-Muslim divorces, while Muslims are governed by the Administration of Muslim Law Act (AMLA) and the Syariah Court. Singapore courts use a structured approach to property division: first assessing direct financial contributions, then indirect contributions (homemaking, childcare), and arriving at a percentage. The courts have developed a sophisticated case law on women's indirect contributions, often credited at 30-40% in long marriages.
Key Legislation
Women's Charter (Cap. 353)
Governs non-Muslim marriage, divorce, maintenance, and division of matrimonial assets.
Administration of Muslim Law Act (AMLA)
Governs Muslim marriages and divorces through the Syariah Court.
Guardianship of Infants Act
Governs custody — welfare of child is paramount consideration.
Grounds for Divorce
- ●Sole ground: irretrievable breakdown of marriage, proved by:
- ●Adultery (and the petitioner finds it intolerable to live with respondent)
- ●Unreasonable behaviour
- ●2-year desertion
- ●3-year separation with consent
- ●4-year separation without consent
How to Divorce in Singapore: Step-by-Step
3-year bar
Cannot divorce within 3 years of marriage unless exceptional hardship or depravity.
Mandatory counseling
If children under 21: must attend counseling and mediation at DSSA.
File writ of divorce
At the Family Justice Courts.
Uncontested track
If agreed, proceeds on simplified track — no trial needed.
Contested track
Case conference, mediation, then trial if unresolved.
Interim judgment
Dissolves the marriage. Final matters (assets, children) resolved separately.
Recent Legal Reforms
Family Justice Courts established as dedicated family court system.
ANJ v ANK: Court of Appeal established the structured approach to property division.
What Makes Singapore Divorce Unique
- →3-year marriage bar: cannot divorce within 3 years unless exceptional hardship
- →Dual system: Women's Charter for non-Muslims, AMLA/Syariah Court for Muslims
- →Structured approach to assets: courts systematically evaluate direct + indirect contributions
- →Maintenance for wife only (not husband) under Women's Charter — gender-specific provision
Singapore Divorce Statistics
~25% of marriages
Divorce rate
4-12 months (uncontested), 1-3 years (contested)
Average duration
~30% of all divorces
Muslim divorces
Singapore Divorce Guides
Singapore Property Division
How assets and debts are divided
Singapore Spousal Support
Maintenance and alimony
Singapore Child Custody
Custody and parenting arrangements
Singapore Divorce Process & Timeline
Steps and how long it takes
Singapore Divorce Costs
Fees, costs, and legal aid
Singapore Child Support
Financial support for children
Singapore Uncontested Divorce
When both spouses agree
Singapore Divorce Mediation
Alternative dispute resolution
Singapore Divorce & Taxes
Tax implications of divorce
Singapore Domestic Violence & Divorce
Safety and legal protections
Every situation is different
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Legal Disclaimer: This article covers Singapore divorce law for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change frequently. Always consult a qualified family law attorney or solicitor in Singapore for advice specific to your situation.