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Which country has easiest divorce?

Getting a divorce can be a long and difficult process in many countries around the world. However, some countries have laws and procedures that make divorces relatively quick and easy compared to others. When looking at which countries have the easiest divorces, there are a few key factors to consider:

Grounds for Divorce

The legal grounds required for granting a divorce vary greatly by country. In some places, couples may be required to prove adultery, cruelty, or other wrongdoing by their spouse. Other countries allow no-fault divorces where the marriage can be ended without requiring specific justification.

Countries with no-fault divorce laws, where one spouse can request a divorce without having to provide evidence of fault by the other party, generally have simpler and faster divorce processes. Some examples of countries with uncomplicated no-fault divorce include:

  • United States
  • Canada
  • Australia
  • United Kingdom
  • New Zealand
  • Sweden

Places that require proof of adultery, abandonment, abuse or other at-fault grounds in order to get divorced typically have longer and more complex proceedings.

Separation Periods

Many countries require couples to be separated for a period of time before the divorce can be finalized. This separation is intended to give spouses a chance to reconcile and resume the marriage if possible. Countries with lengthy required separation periods make getting divorced more difficult.

Some examples of countries with short or no separation requirements include:

  • United States – Most states do not require any separation before divorce.
  • Canada – Divorce possible with 1 year of separation in most provinces.
  • Australia – No minimum separation period.
  • United Kingdom – Divorce possible after 2 years of separation.
  • New Zealand – No minimum separation period.
  • Sweden – Immediate divorce granted.

Places that necessitate 3 years or more of separation before allowing divorce have much lengthier processes. For example, Ireland requires 4 years of separation and Italy requires 3 years prior to divorce.

Costs and Fees

The costs involved in obtaining a divorce, including court and legal fees, can be prohibitive in some countries. More affordable procedures help make divorce accessible.

Some jurisdictions with lower divorce costs are:

  • United States – Varies by state, but costs are relatively low in most places. Many options for low-cost or pro bono legal assistance available.
  • Canada – Federal divorce fee is $631 CAD. Legal fees vary.
  • Australia – Application fee of $920 AUD. Legal costs vary.
  • United Kingdom – £550 court fee. Legal fees around £1500 average.
  • New Zealand – NZ$931 court filing fee is typical cost.
  • Sweden – Approx. 2000 SEK total cost.

Places where divorce involves steep fees or retaining expensive legal advocacy tend to have more difficult processes. For instance, divorce in Ireland starts at around €6,000.

Ease of Process

Even in places where the legal grounds, separation periods, and costs of divorce are reasonable, the process can still be complicated for those navigating it. Countries where paperwork and bureaucratic processes are straightforward make getting divorced less difficult.

Some countries known for relatively simple, straightforward divorce procedures include:

  • United States – Paperwork varies by state but process is generally efficient.
  • Canada – Application forms clearly outline steps and requirements.
  • Australia – DIY divorce possible for amicable splits using online forms.
  • New Zealand – Streamlined centralized court process.
  • Sweden – Clear bureaucratic processes with minimal court involvement.

Places that require extensive paperwork and court appearances or have complex filing procedures create additional barriers to obtaining a divorce.

Conclusion

While every divorce comes with emotional and financial challenges, the legal process is simplest in countries that have no-fault divorce, short separation periods, lower costs, and clear filing procedures. Among developed nations, the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Sweden consistently rate among the easiest places to get divorced. However, ease of divorce should not be the only consideration – the division of assets and child custody also vary significantly depending on jurisdiction.