An uncontested divorce in Singapore is the simplest route when both parties agree on the divorce and all related terms. It is faster, more predictable, and less costly than a contested case. For an overview of the full process, see divorce lawyer in Singapore.

Key takeaways

Uncontested divorce applies when both spouses agree on the reason and all terms.
It generally takes about four to five months from filing to Final Judgment.
Having a divorce lawyer ensures the paperwork and agreements are in proper form.
Clear agreements on children, maintenance, and assets prevent later disputes.

Uncontested divorce in Singapore: both spouses agree on the divorce and all terms, making it faster and more affordable. Typical duration is three to four months.

What is an uncontested divorce in Singapore?

An uncontested divorce happens when both spouses agree that the marriage has broken down and have settled all issues—such as children, maintenance, and division of assets—before filing. This route is often advised for couples seeking a smooth and respectful conclusion. Learn more about overall routes in divorce lawyer in Singapore.

Who qualifies for an uncontested divorce?

You can file if you meet the following:

You have been married for at least three years (unless there is exceptional hardship).
One party is a Singapore Citizen, has been domiciled in Singapore, or has resided here for at least three years.
Both parties agree that the marriage has irretrievably broken down under accepted facts such as unreasonable behaviour, desertion, or separation. (See Divorce by Mutual Agreement (DMA): What It Is and When It Fits).

Steps to file an uncontested divorce in Singapore

1. Engage a divorce lawyer

Your lawyer drafts the Originating Application for Simplified Divorce, making sure every agreement is clearly stated.

2. Prepare the key documents

Include marriage certificate, birth certificates, Co-parenting programme certificate, and agreed terms on:

Children and custody
Maintenance
Assets

3. File documents in court

Your lawyer files the Originating Application and supporting documents electronically with the Family Justice Courts.

4. Serve the documents

The other party signs the Originating Application confirming receipt, keeping the process uncontested.

5. Obtain the Interim Judgment

If all paperwork is correct, the court grants an Interim Judgment without a hearing.

6. Final Judgment

Three months after the Interim Judgment, your lawyer applies for the Final Judgment, which legally ends the marriage.

Timeline at a glance


Stage	Duration	Notes
Preparation and drafting	1–2 weeks	Documents, agreements, and signatures
Filing and service	1 week	Filed via eLitigation
Interim Judgment	~1 month	Court review
Final Judgment	3 months after Interim	Marriage legally dissolved

Benefits of an uncontested divorce

Speed: Avoids hearings and long disputes.
Cost: Fixed, transparent fees available for this route. (See How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Divorce Lawyer in Singapore?).
Privacy: Less confrontation and limited public exposure.
Certainty: Terms are settled before filing, reducing risk of conflict later.

When an uncontested divorce may not apply

If you cannot agree on custody, maintenance, or asset division.
If one party does not respond to documents or refuses to sign.
If there is family violence or safety concerns, where a Personal Protection Order (PPO) may be needed.

Conclusion

An uncontested divorce is the most efficient and least stressful path when both parties agree on all terms. It saves time, reduces cost, and keeps matters civil. For tailored help, call +65 8011 2121 and follow @21chamberssg for more insights.

FAQ

Typically around four to five months from filing to Final Judgment.
Usually not, as the court reviews documents without a hearing.
No. To prevent conflict of interest, each party should have independent advice.
You are legally divorced and can update your records or remarry.

Uncontested Divorce in Singapore: Steps and Timeline