Divorce after separation

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

If you are already separated you can apply for divorce now. There is no minimum separation period in England and Wales, so the time you have spent apart neither helps nor hinders the application.

CalmSplit prepares your divorce application for a one-off £159, whether you separated last month or ten years ago, and you can complete it without your spouse's involvement.

  • No minimum separation period applies
  • A long separation does not create extra hurdles
  • You can apply alone or jointly
CalmSplit fee
£159one-off, per person

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

Check suitability

The law changed. Start free and pay £159 when you prepare your application.

See how it works

Separation and divorce are not the same thing

Separation is a factual state. Divorce is a legal process that ends the marriage. Until you obtain a Final Order you remain married, whatever your living arrangements or how long you have been apart.

Why people delay, and what it can cost

  • Financial claims between spouses can remain open indefinitely without a financial order
  • You cannot remarry until the Final Order is made
  • Pension and inheritance positions may not reflect your intentions
  • Paperwork such as marriage certificates and addresses gets harder to trace over time

What you need to apply

Your marriage certificate details, your spouse's name and an address or email for service, and confirmation that you have been married at least a year and the marriage has broken down irretrievably.

Frequently asked questions

No. There is no deadline, and no minimum period apart.

Related CalmSplit pages

Check suitability

The law changed. Start free and pay £159 when you prepare your application.

Start free
Start your divorce – £159