Divorce Process in Turkey: A Complete Legal Guide (2025 Update)
- Özgür Kurucuk
- Aug 4
- 4 min read
Understanding the divorce process in Turkey can be overwhelming, especially for foreigners or expats navigating unfamiliar legal systems. Whether you're dealing with a contested case, mutual consent divorce, or have concerns about custody and alimony, this guide breaks down everything step-by-step. Backed by insights from leading firms like Kurucuk & Associates, a highly trusted Turkey Lawyer group, this blog offers clarity for anyone pursuing legal separation in Turkey.
Understanding the Divorce Process in Turkey
What Is the Divorce Process in Turkey?
The divorce process in Turkey refers to the set of legal steps a married couple must take to dissolve their marriage under Turkish family law. Governed by the Turkish Civil Code, divorce proceedings must be filed in Family Courts and can be categorized into two main types: contested and uncontested (mutual consent) divorces.
Legal Grounds for Divorce in Turkey
To start the Turkey divorce process, legal grounds must be cited. These may include:
Adultery
Threat to life or severe mistreatment
Criminal conduct
Desertion
Mental illness
Irretrievable breakdown of the marriage (used in mutual consent or no-fault divorce cases)
Types of Divorce Recognized in Turkish Law
Uncontested Divorce Process in Turkey (Mutual Consent)
Contested Divorce in Turkey (when parties disagree on issues like custody, alimony, or property)
Islamic Divorce in Turkey (recognition available for certain religious marriages under specific conditions)
Key Steps in the Divorce Process in Turkey
Step 1 – Hiring a Reliable Turkish Lawyer
Whether you're a local or a foreign national, consulting a professional Lawyer Turkey is crucial. Firms like Kurucuk & Associates provide personalized support and deep knowledge of the divorce laws in Turkey.
Step 2 – Filing a Divorce Petition
A divorce petition must be submitted to the Family Court with proper documentation, including:
Marriage certificate
Identity documents
Grounds for divorce
Agreements on custody, alimony, or property division (if mutual consent)
Step 3 – Court Hearings and Evidence
In a contested divorce, the court examines:
Witness statements
Financial records
Proof of misconduct or legal grounds
Child custody evaluations
Step 4 – Final Decree and Divorce Certificate
Once the court issues its final decision, the divorce decree is registered. This marks the legal end of the marriage.
Divorce Process in Turkey for Foreigners and Expats
Can a Foreigner File for Divorce in Turkey?
Yes. Divorce for foreigners in Turkey is legally permitted, provided either spouse resides in Turkey or holds Turkish citizenship. The Turkish legal system will still apply to the proceedings.
Divorce Procedures for Expats in Turkey
Expats should consult a Turkey Lawyer familiar with international family law. Kurucuk & Associates, a leading Turkish Lawyer firm in Istanbul, offers comprehensive guidance on:
Translating foreign documents
Residency requirements
Child custody involving foreign jurisdictions
Divorce Process in Istanbul, Turkey
The divorce process in Istanbul, Turkey, is handled in local Family Courts. The city’s international population means courts are accustomed to handling bilingual cases and complex cross-border issues.
Legal and Financial Aspects of the Divorce Process in Turkey
Divorce Fees and Costs in Turkey 2024
Costs can vary, but typically include:
Court filing fees
Divorce lawyer fees in Turkey
Translation and notarization of foreign documents
The cost of divorce in Turkey can range from 15,000 to 60,000 TRY or more depending on case complexity.
Divorce Alimony Laws in Turkey
Alimony is awarded based on:
Financial need
Length of marriage
Standard of living
Your Lawyer Turkey can help negotiate fair alimony terms.
Property Division in Turkish Divorce
According to divorce laws in Turkey, property acquired during the marriage is subject to equal division unless a prenuptial agreement exists.
Child Custody Laws in Turkey Divorce
Turkish courts prioritize the child’s best interest. Custody may be granted to one parent or shared, and visitation rights are usually allowed. Child support may also be ordered.
FAQs About the Divorce Process in Turkey
How Long Does a Divorce Take in Turkey?
Uncontested divorce: ~1-2 months
Contested divorce: 6 months to 2+ years
Steps to File for Divorce in Turkey
Hire a Turkish Lawyer
Gather documentation
File petition in Family Court
Attend hearings
Receive court verdict
What Are the Divorce Requirements in Turkey?
Valid marriage
Legal grounds
Jurisdiction in Turkey
Representation by a divorce lawyer in Turkey
Why Choose Kurucuk & Associates for the Divorce Process in Turkey?
Trusted Turkish Lawyer Team in Istanbul
Based in Istanbul, Kurucuk & Associates is a top-tier Lawyer Turkey firm that handles family law, including:
Divorce in Turkey (contested and uncontested)
Mutual divorce in Turkey
Child custody and alimony negotiation
International and expat divorce
Divorce Mediation Services Turkey
Kurucuk & Associates also offers divorce mediation services in Turkey, helping couples reach amicable resolutions outside the courtroom.
📞 Ready to Begin the Divorce Process in Turkey?
Whether you're a resident, expat, or foreign national, the team at Kurucuk & Associates is here to guide you through every legal step with confidence and care. Our experienced Turkey Lawyers specialize in family law, offering personalized support in contested and uncontested divorces, child custody, alimony, and more.
👉 Book a confidential consultation today with a trusted Turkish Lawyer at Kurucuk & Associates and take the first step toward clarity and resolution.
📍 Istanbul-Based | 🌍 Internationally Experienced | ⚖️ Family Law Experts
