How Much Does It Cost to Get a Divorce in Turkey? A 2026 Guide by Kurucuk & Associates
- S. A. Jaffri
- Oct 31
- 6 min read
Divorce is never easy — emotionally, mentally, or financially. Whether you’re a Turkish citizen or a foreigner living in Istanbul, one of the first practical questions that comes to mind is: how much does it cost to get a divorce in Turkey?
The truth is, there isn’t a single number that fits every situation. Divorce costs in Turkey depend on your circumstances, the type of divorce, whether both spouses agree, and the legal help you choose.
At Kurucuk & Associates, an Istanbul-based law firm trusted by both locals and expats, we believe clarity brings confidence. That’s why we’ve prepared this comprehensive 2026 guide — to help you understand every part of the cost to get a divorce in Turkey, from court fees and lawyer charges to translation expenses and ways to reduce unnecessary costs.
Let’s take this step-by-step.
Understanding Divorce Costs in Turkey
Divorce in Turkey operates under the Turkish Civil Code and is handled through family courts. While the process is legally structured, the costs can vary widely — just like each marriage and story behind it.
When people ask, “Why do divorce costs differ so much?”, the answer often lies in these factors:
Whether both partners agree to the divorce or not
Whether there are children involved
How complex the property or asset division is
And, importantly, which lawyer represents you
Here are the main categories of divorce-related expenses in Turkey:
Court fees:
The mandatory amount paid to file and process your case
Lawyer fees:
Professional representation and legal strategy
Translation and notary costs:
For documents in languages other than Turkish
Mediation or expert fees:
When specialists are needed to resolve disputes
Additional costs:
Such as courier, evaluation, or documentation expenses
Every case has its own rhythm — and the fees follow that rhythm. Understanding these costs in advance can help you make informed, stress-free decisions.
Breakdown of Divorce Costs (2026 Estimates)
To give you a realistic idea, here’s how divorce expenses generally look in Turkey for 2026. These are average estimates, which can vary based on city, complexity, and the firm you choose.
Turkish Court Fees for Divorce
Court fees are among the more predictable parts of the process.
Filing fee:
TRY 600–1,000
Procedural/service fees:
TRY 400–800
Expert witness or court-appointed evaluation (if required):
TRY 1,000–3,000
➡ Typical total: TRY 2,000–4,000
Divorce Lawyer Fees in Turkey
Your lawyer’s experience and the complexity of your case largely determine your total legal expense.
Mutual consent divorce: TRY 25,000–45,000
Contested divorce: TRY 50,000–150,000+
Hourly rates (for specific consultations): TRY 2,000–5,000
Fixed-fee or installment options: Available through firms like Kurucuk & Associates
Remember — a good lawyer is not just about filing paperwork. They are your voice, your shield, and your guide through a highly emotional process.
Notary and Translation Costs
If you or your spouse are foreigners, all documents not in Turkish (such as passports, marriage certificates, or court orders) must be officially translated and notarized.
Translation (per document): TRY 500–1,500
Notarization: TRY 300–800➡ Typical total: TRY 2,000–5,000
Mediation Costs (if applicable)
Family mediation is becoming more common in Turkey, especially in cases involving children or shared assets.
Mediation fee per session: TRY 1,000–3,000
Total (1–3 sessions): TRY 3,000–9,000
Mediation can save time, emotional energy, and significant legal fees by helping couples reach an agreement without multiple court hearings.
Cost Differences by Type of Divorce
Mutual Consent Divorce Cost in Turkey
A mutual consent divorce is the fastest and most affordable route. Both parties agree on everything — from child custody to property division — and submit a written protocol to the court.
Average total cost: TRY 25,000–50,000
Timeline: Usually resolved within 1–3 months
For many couples, this is the cheapest way to get a divorce in Turkey, provided there’s mutual understanding and proper documentation.
Contested Divorce Cost in Turkey
If spouses cannot agree, the divorce becomes contested — and costs rise accordingly. Lawyers spend more time preparing evidence, attending hearings, and negotiating settlements.
Average total cost: TRY 70,000–200,000+
Timeline: 6 months to 3 years, depending on complexity
Every extra hearing or appeal means additional fees. The emotional toll is higher too, so it’s wise to seek legal counsel that combines empathy with expertise.
The Cheapest Way to Get a Divorce in Turkey
If both spouses can communicate openly and agree on terms, a mutual consent divorce with a fixed-fee lawyer is the most cost-effective path.
Kurucuk & Associates offers transparent packages to make this process smooth and predictable — no hidden fees, no surprises.
Divorce Costs for Foreigners and Expats
Turkey’s cosmopolitan cities, especially Istanbul and Antalya, are home to thousands of expats and mixed-nationality couples. While the divorce process for foreigners is similar, additional formalities can slightly increase the overall expense.
Divorce Cost for Foreigners in Turkey
Foreigners typically incur added costs for:
Sworn translations of foreign documents
Notarizations and apostille verifications
Embassy or consular certifications
Estimated total cost: TRY 40,000–80,000
Divorce for British and German Citizens
British and German nationals often require document verification from their embassies, along with Turkish translations and certifications.
Estimated total: TRY 50,000–90,000
International Divorce and Legalization Fees
If one spouse lives abroad, or the marriage was registered in another country, additional procedures for recognition and enforcement of judgments apply.
Estimated total: TRY 80,000–150,000
At Kurucuk & Associates, our English-speaking divorce lawyers in Istanbul regularly handle cross-border and expat cases, ensuring that every legal and linguistic detail is covered.
City-Based Cost Comparison
To provide perspective, here’s a city-to-city snapshot of average divorce costs in Turkey:
City | Average Lawyer Fees (TRY) | Court Fees (TRY) | Notes |
Istanbul | 30,000–150,000 | 2,000–4,000 | Higher demand and complexity |
Ankara | 25,000–120,000 | 2,000–3,500 | Balanced costs and efficiency |
Izmir | 25,000–100,000 | 2,000–3,000 | Faster family court timelines |
Antalya | 20,000–90,000 | 1,800–3,000 | Common for expat divorces |
Bodrum | 25,000–80,000 | 1,500–2,500 | International clientele focus |
Big cities tend to have higher fees due to demand and workload, but also more experienced family law specialists — which can ultimately save time and money.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Divorce in Turkey
No two divorces are alike, and that’s why costs vary so much.
Here are the main influences:
Type of Divorce:
Mutual consent vs. contested makes a huge difference.
Case Duration:
The longer it drags, the more it costs.
Children:
Custody and child support matters add layers of complexity.
Assets:
Division of property, business, or savings requires expert evaluation.
Alimony and Compensation:
Disputes over maintenance payments increase fees.
Court Location:
Istanbul and coastal cities generally have higher lawyer rates.
International Elements:
Translation, legalization, and recognition costs for foreigners.
In short: the more cooperation, the less the cost. When both parties act with clarity and mutual respect, the legal process becomes smoother — and more affordable.
How Kurucuk & Associates Helps Reduce Costs
At Kurucuk & Associates, we understand that behind every legal case, there are human lives — and often, heartbreak. That’s why we focus on making the process not only legally sound but also emotionally bearable and financially transparent.
Here’s how we help our clients control their divorce costs:
Transparent fees:
No surprises — all costs are explained upfront.
Fixed-fee options:
Predictable legal bills that fit your budget.
Flexible payment plans:
Designed around your personal circumstances.
Comprehensive service:
From documentation to court representation, handled seamlessly.
Multilingual support:
English, German, Arabic, and Russian-speaking lawyers.
We don’t just process cases — we protect your peace of mind. Whether your divorce is simple or complex, our Istanbul-based family law team ensures your rights and dignity remain at the center of every step.
FAQs About Divorce Costs in Turkey
How much does a divorce lawyer cost in Turkey?
Most divorce lawyers charge between TRY 25,000 and 150,000, depending on whether it’s a mutual or contested case.
What is the average price for a mutual divorce?
A mutual consent divorce generally costs TRY 25,000–50,000 and is completed within a few months.
Why is divorce expensive in Turkey?
The more complex the disputes — especially over children, assets, or compensation — the higher the legal work required, and thus, the cost.
Is divorce free in Turkey?
No, there are unavoidable court and lawyer fees. However, compared to many European countries, Turkey’s divorce costs remain relatively moderate.
Can I get a divorce in Turkey without a lawyer?
Technically yes, but it’s risky. A single procedural error can delay or even nullify your case. Hiring a professional family lawyer ensures your rights are protected.
Ready to Take the Next Step with Confidence?
At Kurucuk & Associates, we understand that divorce isn’t just a legal process — it’s a personal journey that deserves compassion, clarity, and expert guidance. Whether you’re seeking a mutual consent divorce or navigating a more complex contested case, our English-speaking family law attorneys in Istanbul are here to help you every step of the way.
Let us simplify the process, protect your interests, and provide transparent, fixed-fee legal support tailored to your needs.
Contact Kurucuk & Associates today to schedule a confidential consultation and get a clear understanding of the cost to get a divorce in Turkey — with no surprises, just honest advice.
