The Southern Interregional Department of the Ministry of Justice of Ukraine has prepared a special algorithm for citizens who want to divorce while abroad. This algorithm will help to understand the legal nuances of divorce under various circumstances. In particular, several methods are indicated, depending on the situation of the spouses.
- Divorce by court order (if there are children or difficulties with filing a joint application)
If the spouses have common minor children or cannot file a joint application for divorce due to being in different countries, it is necessary to apply to the court. In this case, the divorce can be carried out by court order, and it is possible to file an application through the online service of the Electronic Court system. - Joint application at a diplomatic mission (for spouses without children)
Spouses who do not have children in common and reside in the same country may submit a joint application for divorce to the nearest diplomatic mission of Ukraine. It is important to note that online divorce at civil registry offices abroad is not possible. - Filing an application to the DRACS body abroad
In the event that one of the spouses cannot personally file an application to the DRACS body due to being abroad, he or she may have the application notarized and sent to the other party for filing. The application can be sent by mail, and the other spouse must make a notarized translation and file the application with the DRACS body. The divorce will take place after a month if the application is not withdrawn. - Divorce under the laws of the host country
Another option is to apply to the competent authorities of the host country for divorce. The divorce procedure in this case will be carried out in accordance with the laws of the country where one of the spouses resides.
