How to file for divorce in Switzerland, step by step

How an amicable divorce works: from the conversation about the divorce agreement to approval by the court, and what you need to prepare.

The five steps to your divorce.

This applies to a divorce on joint request. Details differ between courts.

01
Reach agreement
Both spouses must agree on the divorce and on all its consequences: children, maintenance, marital property and pensions. This is the condition for a divorce on joint request (Swiss Civil Code Art. 111 ff.).
02
Draft the divorce agreement
The agreement records in writing what you have settled. The court checks it for completeness. A complete agreement saves follow-up questions.
03
File the joint petition
You file the joint divorce petition, with the agreement and your documents, at the competent court.
04
Hearing
The court hears both spouses in person and checks that you really want the divorce and understand the agreement.
05
Approval and finality
If the court approves the agreement, it pronounces the divorce. It becomes final when the appeal period ends. How long the whole procedure takes differs from court to court.

Depending on the court, the authorities ask for further documents.

Describe your situation in a few minutes. We reply with a suggested appointment.

From CHF 1'490 flat fee until the final divorce decree. Pricing in detail.