How to File for Divorce in the UK (2025 Guide)

How to File for Divorce in the UK (2025 Guide)

(England and Wales)

If you’ve decided to end your marriage, here’s a clear, step-by-step overview of how divorce works under UK law as of 2025.

✅ 1. Eligibility to Divorce in the UK

You can apply for a divorce if:

• You have been legally married for at least 1 year, and

• Your marriage is legally recognized in the UK, and

• The UK is your permanent home or your spouse’s.

✅ 2. No-Fault Divorce (2022 Reform Still Applies)

Thanks to the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 (in force since April 2022), you no longer need to prove wrongdoing.

You only need to make a statement of irretrievable breakdown — no blame required.

You can apply:

• Individually (sole application)

• Together (joint application)

✅ 3. Apply Online or by Post

Apply online via the HMCTS digital service: www.gov.uk/divorce

Or post Form D8 (Divorce Application) to the nearest Family Court.

Court fee: £593 (can apply for a fee reduction based on income via “Help with Fees”)

✅ 4. Acknowledgment of Service

If you filed alone (sole application), your spouse will receive the application and must respond within 14 days.

If they respond, the divorce proceeds.

If they do not respond, you may still proceed using a bailiff or process server.

✅ 5. Wait for 20-Week Cooling-Off Period

There is a mandatory 20-week period before you can apply for the Conditional Order (formerly “Decree Nisi”). This gives both parties time to reflect.

✅ 6. Apply for the Conditional Order

This confirms the court agrees the legal grounds for divorce are met.

You do not usually need to attend court if uncontested.

✅ 7. Wait 6 Weeks and Apply for Final Order

After 6 weeks (and 1 day) from the Conditional Order, you can apply for the Final Order (formerly “Decree Absolute”), which legally ends the marriage.

✅ 8. After Divorce Is Finalized

Update your will, name (if applicable), and finances

Arrange any financial settlement through a separate consent order (not automatic with divorce)

If children are involved, ensure parenting arrangements are followed

Note: The process for civil partnership dissolution is almost identical.