Can I divorce within the first year of marriage?
No. You cannot apply for a divorce until you have been married for at least one year. You can, however, separate immediately, agree finances, and prepare your application so it is ready to submit on your first anniversary.
CalmSplit lets you prepare everything in advance for a one-off £159, so your application can be submitted as soon as you are eligible.
- The one-year rule is absolute for divorce applications
- Separation agreements can be used in the meantime
- Annulment may apply in limited circumstances
One-off CalmSplit fee. HMCTS court fees are paid separately to the court.
Check suitabilityStart free and pay the one-off £159 when you are ready to prepare your application.
See how it worksWhat you can do before the first anniversary
- Separate, whether or not you continue living together
- Record what you have agreed in a separation agreement
- Gather your marriage certificate and other documents
- Prepare your divorce application ready to submit
Annulment is different
A marriage can sometimes be annulled within the first year, for example where it was never legally valid or was never consummated in limited circumstances. This is a distinct legal route and independent advice is recommended.
Ready on day one
Because the timetable starts when the application is issued, having everything prepared means no time is lost once you become eligible.
Frequently asked questions
Related CalmSplit pages
Check suitability
Start free and pay the one-off £159 when you are ready to prepare your application.
Start free