What is the process for Muslim divorce in Singapore?

What the Law Says

The Administration of Muslim Law Act (AMLA) governs Muslim marriage and divorce in Singapore. Section 35 sets out the jurisdiction and procedure for divorce matters involving Muslims.

Only marriages solemnised or registered under Muslim law — or where both parties are Muslims at the time of application — fall under the Syariah Court’s jurisdiction. The process begins with mandatory counselling at the Registry of Muslim Marriages (ROMM) or a Syariah Court-approved counsellor.

After counselling, either spouse may file an application for divorce in the Syariah Court. The Court will then hold hearings to assess grounds for divorce, financial settlements, custody, and maintenance — all in accordance with Islamic principles and Singapore law.

If satisfied that the marriage has irretrievably broken down and all requirements are met, the Syariah Court grants a divorce and issues a Certificate of Divorce. This certificate is legally binding and must be registered with ROMM.

Statutory Text

The Syariah Court shall have jurisdiction to hear and determine proceedings for divorce, nullity of marriage and judicial separation between persons married under the provisions of this Part or where both parties to the marriage are Muslims at the time when the proceedings are commenced.

— Administration of Muslim Law Act, s. 35 — Jurisdiction of Syariah Court

What to Do

Sources