Turkish courts have jurisdiction over divorce where at least one spouse is a Turkish national or where the spouses live in Turkey. Foreign spouses married in Turkey or abroad can therefore often divorce before a Turkish family court.
Which law applies?
Under Turkey’s private international law rules, divorce is governed by the spouses’ common national law; if they have different nationalities, by the law of their common habitual residence; otherwise by Turkish law.
Uncontested divorce
If the marriage has lasted at least one year and the spouses agree on everything, a written protocol is submitted and the divorce is usually granted at a single hearing.
Representation
A party living abroad can grant a power of attorney at a Turkish consulate or before a foreign notary (with apostille and sworn translation). Divorce powers of attorney must expressly mention divorce and carry the client’s photograph.
Recognition of foreign judgments
A divorce granted abroad must be recognised by a Turkish court before it can be registered in the Turkish civil registry. We handle recognition proceedings in Bursa.
Frequently asked questions
Do both spouses have to be in Turkey?
Not necessarily for contested cases, where a lawyer can represent you. For uncontested divorce, courts generally require the spouses to attend the hearing in person.
Will my Turkish divorce be recognised in my home country?
Recognition depends on the law of the other country. Turkish divorce judgments are commonly recognised in EU member states and many other countries, subject to local procedures.
Member of the Bursa Bar (Reg. No 7458). Graduate of Ankara University Faculty of Law; former public prosecutor and chief public prosecutor.
