Singapore

Does marriage revoke a will in Singapore?

Yes
Revokes will?
s. 13
Wills Act section
1996 Rev Ed
Edition
Cap. 352
Statute number
The Short Answer

Yes, marriage automatically revokes a will in Singapore, unless the will was made in contemplation of that marriage.

What the Law Says

The Wills Act sets out when a will is revoked by operation of law — including upon marriage.

Under Singapore law, getting married automatically cancels (revokes) any existing will — but only if the will was not made 'in contemplation of the marriage'. This means the will must clearly show that the testator expected and intended to marry the specific person, and made the will with that marriage in mind.

If the will does not meet this exception, it is wholly revoked upon marriage — even if the will says nothing about the upcoming marriage or includes no conditions. The revocation happens immediately on solemnisation of the marriage, not on registration or other formalities.

Statutory Text

Subject to subsection (2), the making of a will is revoked by the marriage of the testator.

Wills Act, s. 13 — Revocation by marriage

What to Do

1

If planning to marry and wish to keep your current will, make a new will 'in contemplation of marriage' — clearly naming your intended spouse and stating your intention to marry them.

2

Alternatively, make the new will after marriage, ensuring it reflects your updated wishes.

3

Review your will with a qualified lawyer to confirm whether it satisfies the 'contemplation of marriage' requirement under s. 13.

4

Keep evidence (e.g., engagement records, correspondence) showing your intention to marry at the time the will was made — this may support the exception if challenged.

Sources

Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.