Divorce from someone in another country
It is usually possible, provided the courts of England and Wales have jurisdiction through your connection here. The extra work is practical rather than legal: getting the application properly served in the other country.
CalmSplit checks whether your situation suits a self-help route for free, then prepares your application for a one-off £159.
- Your connection to England and Wales is what matters most
- Service abroad has extra rules and timescales
- Cooperation from your spouse speeds everything up
One-off CalmSplit fee. HMCTS court fees are paid separately to the court.
Check if CalmSplit is suitableAnswer a few free questions about your circumstances before you pay anything.
See how it worksEstablishing jurisdiction
Jurisdiction typically rests on habitual residence or domicile. If you live here, or regard England and Wales as your permanent home, the court can usually deal with the divorce even though your spouse is overseas.
Getting the papers to your spouse
- Ask whether they will accept service by email and acknowledge promptly
- Otherwise the court may permit postal service or official channels
- Allow extra weeks in your planning
- Keep evidence of every attempt at service
If they do not respond
There are procedures to move forward, including applying for deemed service or for an alternative method. These add steps, so check suitability before you pay.
Frequently asked questions
Related CalmSplit pages
Check if CalmSplit is suitable
Answer a few free questions about your circumstances before you pay anything.
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