SingaporeCan a father get sole custody in Singapore?
Yes, a father can get sole custody in Singapore if it is in the child’s best interests — the court does not favour mothers over fathers.
What the Law Says
The law in Singapore does not presume that mothers are better suited for custody than fathers. The court’s sole focus is the welfare and best interests of the child.
Under the Women's Charter, the court decides custody based solely on what is in the best interests of the child. This includes considering factors like the child’s physical, emotional, and educational needs; the ability of each parent to care for the child; and the child’s wishes (if old enough to express them).
The law explicitly states that no parent is automatically preferred because of their gender. A father has the same legal standing as a mother when applying for sole custody.
Statutory TextThe court shall regard the welfare of the child as the first and paramount consideration.
— Women's Charter, s. 125 — Custody of children
What to Do
File an application for custody in the Family Justice Courts.
Gather evidence showing your ability to meet the child’s physical, emotional, and developmental needs.
Attend mediation (mandatory for most family disputes) before trial.
Be prepared to address the court’s focus on the child’s welfare — not parental rights.
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.