Can Foreigners Divorce in Singapore? – Let's find out the Answer!

Recently in Singapore, there has been a significant rise in marriages where one of the spouses is a foreigner. With the increased number of marriages, the number of divorces has also gone up, and it goes without saying that when a person from different nationalities are involved, it only makes the case more complex. Therefore, in such situations, one of the most prominent questions that cross our minds is – Can Foreigners Divorce in Singapore? Let us find out what goes behind divorcing a spouse who is not a native inhabitant of the country: 

Legal requirements: in case, you are married to a foreign partner, you will be required to systematically follow the divorce process in Singapore. Usually, if one of the partners is a citizen of Singapore, the court has the legal authority to settle the case. If both the partners are foreigners, then one of the partners must be a habitual resident in Singapore for a minimum of three years before applying for the divorce. Both the partners should at least have three years of the marital relationship. You must prove that your marriage is not working out by giving a valid reason. For the divorce proceedings to take place, both the partners should be living in Singapore. 

Grounds for Divorce: just like every divorce in Singapore, you must prove that your marriage is irrevocably broken down on four parameters: unacceptable behaviour, adultery, separation and desertion. 

• Your partner was indulged in adultery and you no longer want to live with her/him. 

• Your partner has misbehaved which has compelled you to discontinue your marriage. 

• Your partner has left you for a considerable amount of time – at least two years. 

• You are living separately from your partner for at least three years and both parties have mutually agreed to file a divorce. 

Matrimonial assets and maintenance: if you have matrimonial assets abroad, the courts in Singapore will still consider their division as long as they can be classified as matrimonial assets. 

Children: when making decisions with regards to Child Custody in Singapore, the courts look into various factors such as the rightful caregiver, child’s preference, age and more.