Uncontested Divorce in Singapore: Process and Fees
An uncontested divorce is usually the quickest and least stressful way to end a marriage in Singapore. It is available when both spouses agree on the divorce and on how the practical matters will be resolved. This guide explains who can apply for an uncontested divorce, what needs to be agreed, how the process works, and what it costs.
Quick answer:
An uncontested (simplified) divorce is where both parties agree on the dissolution and all ancillary matters, such as the division of matrimonial assets, maintenance and care arrangements for the children.
What is an Uncontested Divorce in Singapore?
In an uncontested divorce, the spouses agree on two things. They agree that the marriage should end, and they agree on every ancillary matter. Because there is nothing for the Court to decide between them, the divorce can proceed on the simplified track, which is generally faster and less costly than a contested divorce.
If you are still weighing up which route applies to you, our guide to contested vs uncontested divorce in Singapore sets out the key differences side by side.
Who Can Apply for an Uncontested Divorce?
An uncontested divorce must meet the same basic requirements as any divorce under the Women’s Charter 1961.
3 years of Marriage
You must generally have been married for at least three years before filing, unless the Court allows an earlier filing on the grounds of exceptional hardship or depravity.
Irretrievable Breakdown
The marriage must have broken down irretrievably. This is shown through one of the recognised facts, such as unreasonable behaviour, adultery, a period of 3 or 4 years’ separation (with and without the other spouse’s consent respectively), or divorce by mutual agreement.
Full Agreement
Both spouses must agree on the divorce and on all the ancillary matters.
Divorce by mutual agreement has been available since 1 July 2024. It allows couples who both accept that the marriage has broken down to divorce without attributing fault to either party, which suits many uncontested divorces.
What Do You Need to Agree On?
For a divorce to proceed as uncontested, the spouses need to reach agreement on each of the following ancillary matters.
Division of Matrimonial Assets
How the matrimonial home, savings, CPF monies, investments and other assets will be divided. Read more on our Division of Assets page.
Maintenance
Whether maintenance will be paid for the ex-spouse and the children, and how much. Read more on our Maintenance page.
Care Arrangements for the Children
Custody, care and control, and access arrangements. Read more on our Custody, Care and Control page.
Key point: Agreeing on the terms does not mean you should sign without advice. The Court must still be satisfied that the arrangements are just and equitable, particularly where children are involved.
How Does the Uncontested Divorce Process Work?
Speak to a divorce lawyer
Your lawyer confirms that you are eligible to file, explains your options, and checks that the terms you have agreed are fair and workable.Record the agreed terms
The agreed terms on the dissolution and the ancillary matters are properly drafted and set out in the divorce papers. Where there are children or an HDB flat, additional documents may be required.File with the Family Justice Courts
The divorce papers are filed with the Family Justice Courts, together with the other spouse’s confirmation that the divorce is uncontested.Interim Judgment
If the Court is satisfied with the papers and the agreed terms, it grants an Interim Judgment. Many uncontested divorces are concluded without either spouse needing to attend Court.
Final Judgment
After the required waiting period following the Interim Judgment, the Final Judgment can be obtained and the marriage is formally dissolved.
How Much Does an Uncontested Divorce Cost in Singapore?
At DOT Chambers LLC, our fees for a simplified, uncontested divorce start from $1,690 (where there are no ancillary matters) and $2,890 (where there are children, maintenance or property).
Court filing fees and other disbursements are separate. We will explain the full cost to you at the start, so there are no surprises. You can read more on our Divorce page.
