Divorce and Family Law in Turkey for Foreign Nationals
Divorce proceedings become more complex when one or both spouses are foreign nationals. The office advises foreign clients in English on divorce cases heard before Turkish family courts.
Which Law Applies
Under the Turkish Act on Private International and Procedural Law (No. 5718), article 14, divorce is governed first by the common national law of the spouses. If they do not share a nationality, the law of their common habitual residence applies, and if there is none, Turkish law applies. Custody and maintenance follow the same rule, while interim measures are ordered under Turkish law. A foreign rule may be set aside if it clearly conflicts with Turkish public order.
Court and Procedure
Divorce cases are heard by the family courts. The place where the case may be filed is determined by article 168 of the Turkish Civil Code. Documents issued abroad, such as marriage certificates, normally have to be submitted with a sworn translation and an apostille or consular approval.
Matters the Office Handles
- Contested and uncontested divorce cases
- Custody, child support and spousal maintenance
- Division of marital property
- Advice on jurisdiction and applicable law in cross-border cases
Return to the English-language overview.
This page provides general information and is not legal advice. Outcomes depend on the facts of each case.