The only ground for divorce is the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage under the Women’s Charter. This can be proven by one of six facts:

• Adultery
• Unreasonable behaviour
• Desertion for at least 2 years
• Separation for 3 years (with consent)
• Separation for 4 years (without consent)
• Divorce by Mutual Agreement (DMA) – introduced on 1 July 2024, allowing couples to jointly agree that the marriage has broken down without needing to prove fault.

DMA is a new, no-fault divorce option in Singapore. Both spouses must agree that the marriage has irretrievably broken down and file a written agreement setting out:

• Why they believe the marriage cannot continue
• Efforts at reconciliation
• Proposed arrangements for children and finances

The Court must be satisfied that the agreement is fair before granting the divorce. DMA reduces blame and conflict and is designed to give couples a more amicable way to separate.

Yes. Adultery is one of the recognised facts to show irretrievable breakdown of a marriage. The spouse filing must show that adultery occurred and that it is intolerable to continue living with the other party. Evidence is usually required, such as private investigator reports, messages, or clear admissions.

To use adultery as a ground for divorce:

• You must file within 6 months from the date you found out about the adultery.
• If you continued to live with your spouse for more than 6 months after discovering the adultery, the Court may consider that you condoned the act. In that case, you cannot rely on adultery as your ground for divorce.

If there is not enough evidence for adultery, you may still rely on unreasonable behaviour. For example, unexplained overnight absences, close relationships with a third party, or neglect of the marriage may be sufficient for the Court to find unreasonable behaviour.

The Court’s primary concern is the welfare of the child. Custody (long-term decision-making authority) is usually joint, while care and control (day-to-day living arrangements) may be awarded to one parent. The other parent is typically granted access rights. Parents with children under 21 must also attend the Mandatory Co-Parenting Programme (MCPP) before filing for divorce.

Matrimonial assets generally refer to property or wealth accumulated by either spouse during the marriage. In some cases, assets acquired before the marriage may also be included - particularly where they were significantly enhanced in value or maintained through the efforts of one or both parties during the marriage.

All matrimonial assets - including properties, CPF monies, savings, and investments - are divided in a manner the Court finds just and equitable. Both financial contributions (e.g. paying for property, mortgage, expenses) and non-financial contributions (e.g. childcare, homemaking) are considered. The Court has broad discretion, and settlements often involve both property transfers and CPF refunds.

The timeline depends on whether the divorce is uncontested or contested.

Uncontested divorce: If both spouses agree on all issues, the Court usually grants an Interim Judgment within 4–6 weeks of filing. After a mandatory 3-month waiting period, the divorce is finalised when the Final Judgment is extracted. In total, an uncontested divorce typically takes about 4–6 months.

Contested divorce: If there are disputes over issues such as custody, property, or maintenance, the process is much longer. Contested cases may involve multiple mediation sessions, affidavits, and hearings. These often take 6 to 18 months or more, depending on the number and complexity of disputes.

• Uncontested divorce: Both parties agree on the divorce and all terms (custody, maintenance, property division). The process is faster, simpler, and cheaper.
• Contested divorce: Parties cannot agree on one or more issues. The case involves mediation, written submissions, and hearings, and the Court makes the final decision.

Yes. Foreigners may file for divorce if either spouse is domiciled in Singapore or has been habitually resident here for at least 3 years before filing.

Yes. If your spouse does not consent, you may still file for a contested divorce. You will need to show that the marriage has irretrievably broken down through grounds such as adultery, unreasonable behaviour, desertion, or separation.

If you and your spouse have children under 21, you must complete the CPP before filing for divorce. This programme ensures children’s welfare is central to the process by helping parents:

• Understand the impact of divorce on children.
• Learn strategies for cooperative parenting.
• Reduce disputes and focus on the child’s best interests.

A Certificate of Completion must be submitted to the Family Justice Courts when filing for divorce.

For an uncontested divorce, it is highly unlikely that you will need to appear in court. Your lawyer will handle the filing of all necessary documents and represent you throughout the process. For a contested divorce, you and your spouse will likely need to attend court hearings and mediations. Your lawyer will prepare you for these appearances and guide you through the process.

Mediation is a confidential process where a neutral third party (a trained mediator) helps you and your spouse to voluntarily reach an agreement on all the issues in your divorce. This includes the division of assets, child custody, and maintenance. Mediation is highly encouraged and can be a faster, more cost-effective, and less stressful alternative to going to court. For contested divorces involving children under 21, the court will likely refer you and your spouse to mandatory mediation and counselling before any trial.

1. How much does a divorce cost in Singapore?

The cost depends mainly on whether the divorce is uncontested or contested.

Uncontested divorces, where both spouses agree on all terms, are generally far more affordable and predictable. Contested divorces vary widely in cost because they involve disputes over issues such as children, maintenance, or division of assets, which require more legal time and court involvement.

2.  Divorce Lawyer Fees

Uncontested divorces in Singapore typically start from around $1,600 for a simple divorce with no ancillary issues, and from around $2,600 for cases involving children, division of assets, maintenance, or property matters.

For contested divorces, fees vary because costs depend on the number of issues in dispute, the complexity of the case, and the amount of legal work required. Every contested matter is different, so lawyers will usually provide a tailored quote after understanding the circumstances.

3.  PKWA Law Divorce Fees

At PKWA Law, our fees are fixed, clear and transparent.  Our fees are also highly competitive and within market range.

Click here to view PKWA Law’s clear, fixed-fee packages.

4.   Why is uncontested divorce cheaper than contested divorce?

Uncontested divorces are less expensive because both parties agree on every issue from the start.

This avoids multiple hearings, reduces legal work, and leads to a faster resolution. Contested divorces involve negotiations, evidence preparation, and potentially a trial, which increases time and cost.

5.   Can mediation help reduce divorce costs?

Yes. Mediation is one of the most effective ways to reduce legal fees.

By resolving disagreements early, couples often avoid lengthy contested proceedings. The Family Justice Courts strongly encourage mediation, and many clients find that it leads to a faster, more amicable, and more cost-effective outcome.

6.   What other factors affect divorce costs?

Costs may increase depending on:

• Whether there are children under 21 (custody and maintenance issues)
• Whether there is an HDB flat or other high-value property
• The number and complexity of assets to be divided
• The level of conflict between the parties
• Whether financial disclosure is straightforward or disputed

7.   Can divorce costs be fixed upfront?

Yes. For uncontested divorces, we provide fixed-fee packages so you have certainty from the start.

For contested matters, fees depend on the complexity of the issues, but we keep our fee structure transparent and provide stage-by-stage estimates so clients remain fully informed.

8.   Are there ways to manage or reduce divorce costs?

Yes. Some practical ways to keep costs manageable include:

• Exploring mediation early
• Staying open to settlement on major issues
• Preparing financial documents clearly and promptly
• Keeping communication efficient
• Engaging a lawyer who offers fixed fees where possible

9.   How much do private investigators (PIs) cost in divorce cases?

PI fees vary based on the duration and complexity of surveillance.

They can range from a few thousand dollars upward, depending on the evidence needed. However, PI work is not required in most cases. Many clients use “unreasonable behaviour” as the ground for divorce instead of adultery, as it is typically easier, faster, and more cost-effective to prove.

The most affordable way to get a divorce in Singapore is through an uncontested divorce. This happens when both spouses agree on all key issues such as children, assets, and maintenance. Because there are no disputes for the court to resolve, the process becomes faster, simpler and more affordable. Choosing a law firm that offers clear guidance, transparent fees and assistance with reaching an agreement can help keep your costs low. If disagreements arise, mediation can often help couples avoid a more costly contested divorce.

While it is legally possible to file for divorce on your own, most people engage a divorce lawyer to ensure that documents are properly filed, deadlines are met, and their rights are protected. A lawyer can also negotiate fair settlements and represent you in court if disputes arise.

Divorce in Singapore always takes place in two distinct stages:

1. Dissolution of the marriage

The court must first be satisfied that the marriage has irretrievably broken down. Once this is established, the court will issue an Interim Judgment, which legally ends the marital relationship.

2.  Ancillary matters

After the Interim Judgment, the court will address the practical issues that arise from the divorce, such as:

• Child custody and care arrangements
• Division of matrimonial assets
• Spousal and/or child maintenance

These matters will either be agreed on through negotiation or decided by the court if the parties cannot agree.

Once the ancillary matters are fully resolved and at least three months have passed from the Interim Judgment, either party may apply for the Certificate of Final Judgment. This marks the completion of the divorce.

If you are looking for a divorce lawyer in Singapore, the right choice depends on your individual circumstances rather than finding someone described as the “best” in general. Start by choosing a lawyer who focuses on family law, has experience handling cases similar to yours, and is familiar with divorce proceedings in the Family Justice Courts.

A good divorce lawyer should explain your options clearly, be transparent about legal fees, and advise whether negotiation, mediation, or court proceedings are most appropriate for your situation. Clear communication, practical guidance, and trust are often more important than choosing the cheapest option or the most aggressive approach.

When choosing a divorce lawyer, it is also important to consider several practical factors that can affect both the outcome and cost of your case.

1. Experience with your type of divorce

Uncontested divorces, where both parties agree on all terms, are usually faster and more cost-effective. Contested divorces involving disputes over children, maintenance, or assets tend to be more complex. A lawyer with experience handling cases similar to yours will be better placed to advise you effectively.

2.  Transparency of legal fees

Clear and transparent pricing allows you to plan with confidence. Many firms offer fixed-fee packages for uncontested matters, while contested cases may be billed differently depending on complexity. Understanding what is included in the fees helps avoid unexpected costs.

3.  Quality of the initial consultation

An initial consultation helps you understand your legal position, available options, and next steps. It also allows you to assess whether the lawyer communicates clearly and understands your concerns.

4.  Relevant expertise for complex matters

If your case involves issues such as cross-border elements, high-value assets, or disputes over children, it is important to engage a lawyer with relevant experience to ensure your interests are properly protected.

5.  Approach to dispute resolution

Lawyers experienced in mediation and negotiation can often help resolve matters more efficiently, reducing emotional strain, time, and legal costs. They should also be prepared to represent you in court if settlement is not possible.

6.  Reputation and professional standing

Client feedback, published decisions, and industry recognition can provide useful insight into a lawyer’s professionalism, reliability, and track record in family law matters.in family law matters.

For a more comprehensive read on how to choose the best divorce lawyer, please read our article How to Choose the Best Divorce Lawyers in Singapore.

HDB flats and CPF monies are often the most significant assets in a Singapore divorce. Questions around eligibility, Minimum Occupation Periods, CPF refunds, whether parties can sell in the open market, or whether one party can retain the flat frequently determine how a divorce is resolved.

1.  Is our HDB flat always considered a matrimonial asset?

Generally, yes. Under the Women’s Charter, a flat is a matrimonial asset if it was acquired by one or both parties during the marriage.

Even if you bought the flat before marriage, it can be included in the matrimonial pool if it was used as the family home or if your spouse made significant financial or non-financial contributions (such as renovations or caregiving) during the marriage.

2.   Who is eligible to keep the flat after the divorce?

To "retain" the flat, the party staying must meet HDB’s strict eligibility criteria:

• With Children: If you have care and control of the children, you can usually retain the flat under the Public Scheme.
• Without Children: You may retain it under the Single Singapore Citizen Scheme if you are a Singapore Citizen and at least 35 years old.
• Financial Capacity: You must be able to take over the mortgage loan and demonstrate that you can afford the monthly repayments.

3.   What happens if we have not met the Minimum Occupation Period (MOP)?

As of 2026, HDB flats fall under different classifications (Standard, Plus, and Prime), each with different MOP durations ranging from 5 to 10 years. If your MOP has not been met:

• The flat typically cannot be sold on the open market.
• The Court may order a transfer of ownership to one party (subject to HDB approval).
• If neither party is eligible to keep it, HDB may require the flat to be surrendered to them at a compensation price determined by HDB, which is often lower than the market value.

4.  Is a CPF refund mandatory if I take over my spouse's share of the flat?

Generally, yes. CPF rules usually require a full refund of the principal amount used plus accrued interest.

However, there are 2 exceptions to this rule:

• By Agreement:  Your spouse can agree to waive some or all of the refund (that is, he can agree not to ask for a refund).
• By Court Order:  The Family Justice Courts have the power to order a partial or zero CPF refund to facilitate the transfer.

The Benefit of a partial or zero CPF refund: This allows one party to keep the flat even if they don't have enough cash to fully refund their spouse's CPF.

Do Note: If a zero-refund is ordered, the party keeping the flat must eventually refund that "missing" amount (plus accrued interest) into their own CPF account when they sell the property in the future. This is not a factor in divorce discussions, as the money is still yours, except that it must go back to your CPF account.

5.   How is the "value" of the HDB split between us?

The Court doesn't just look at who paid more. They use a "just and equitable" approach that considers:

• Direct Contributions: Cash payments, CPF usage, and mortgage installments.
• Indirect Contributions: Homemaking, caring for the children, maintaining the household, and supporting a spouse's career.
• Needs of the Children: The Court often prioritizes the primary caregiver to ensure the children have a stable home.

6.   Can we agree on the HDB division ourselves?

Yes. In an uncontested divorce, you can reach a private agreement on whether to sell the flat, transfer it, and whether a CPF refund is required. However, your agreement must still be drafted into a formal Court Order that satisfies both HDB and CPF Board regulations to be enforceable.

7.   What are the timelines for transferring an HDB flat?

Once the Final Judgment is granted, the transfer process typically takes 3 to 5 months. This involves obtaining bank financing, clearing CPF charges, and completing the legal "Change in Flat Ownership" through HDB.

8.   How PKWA Law Helps You Navigate This:

• Eligibility Check: We advise you on whether you meet HDB’s criteria to retain the flat before you file for divorce.
• CPF Compliant Drafting: We ensure your Court Order is drafted with the specific clauses required by the CPF Board for zero or partial refunds.
• Coordinated Transfer: Our conveyancing department can assist you to sell or transfer the flat after Final Judgment is issued.