Can I apply on the anniversary itself?

You can apply once the first year of marriage is complete.

Is £159 the total cost?

It is the CalmSplit fee. The HMCTS court fee is paid separately to the court.

Divorce after one year of marriage

Written by CalmSplit Editorial TeamReviewed by Ramani GillLast reviewed 13 August 2026England & Wales

As soon as you have been married for one year you can apply for a divorce. No separation period is needed, no reasons are required, and you can apply on your own or jointly.

CalmSplit prepares your divorce application for a one-off £159, and you can start free to check eligibility and get your documents in order.

One year of marriage is the only waiting requirement
No blame and no separation period
Sole or joint applications both available

CalmSplit fee

£159one-off, per person

One-off CalmSplit fee. HMCTS court fees are paid separately to the court.

Check suitability

Start free and pay the one-off £159 when you are ready to prepare your application.

See how it works

Confirming your eligibility

Married for at least one year
A sufficient connection with England and Wales
A valid marriage recognised here
A statement that the marriage has broken down irretrievably

What happens next

After issue there is a 20-week reflection period, then the Conditional Order, then a minimum of six weeks and one day before the Final Order. Expect roughly six to eight months in total.

Deal with money at the same time

The divorce does not divide assets. Agreeing a settlement and recording it in a consent order, or a clean break order, is what makes the financial position final.

Frequently asked questions

No. There is no separation requirement.

Related CalmSplit pages

Before the first yearWhat you can do meanwhile No-fault divorce onlineThe current law Consent orderFinalise the finances

Check suitability

Start free and pay the one-off £159 when you are ready to prepare your application.

Start free