How to file for divorce

How to file for divorce? In Ukraine, individuals can initiate a divorce through two official routes: the Civil Registry Office (РАЦС) or the court system. The correct choice depends on specific circumstances such as mutual agreement, the presence of minor children, and whether there are disputes regarding property, custody, or financial support. Each method has its timeline, procedure, and list of required documents.

For professional guidance on filing for divorce, you can consult a divorce lawyer at the Law Office of Serhiy Lysenko.

The process of filing for divorce

In Ukraine, there are two main ways to terminate a marriage: through a civil registry office (RAЦС) or via court. The choice depends on factors such as whether the couple has children under one year old or disputes about assets. The process differs in each case. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the divorce process, seeking guidance from a skilled family lawyer can provide clarity and support.

What documents are needed for a divorce through the court?

When spouses file for divorce in court, they need the following documents:

• Passports of the petitioner (and preferably of the other spouse)
• Individual taxpayer number (RNOКПП / ІПН) of both parties
• Marriage certificate
• Birth certificate(s) of any common children
• Proof of shared child living arrangements (if filing at the petitioner’s place of residence)
• Copies of identity documents for both spouses
• The lawsuit (petition) was prepared according to procedural law
• Evidence supporting claims (e.g. separation, financial matters)
• Receipt of court fee payment (typically 0.4 of the living minimum, reduced by 20 % if filed electronically)

For professional support in alimony cases, reach out to the Law Office of Serhiy Lysenko.

What documents are needed for a divorce at the Civil Registry Office?

If both spouses agree, have no children under one year old, and no disputes over property or support, they may apply to RAЦС. Required documents include:

• Marriage certificate (original)
• Passports of both spouses
• Individual taxpayer numbers (ІПН / RNOКPП)
• Joint written application submitted in person at RAЦС
• Each spouse must appear twice: once to file the application, and later to confirm the decision after at least 30 days.

Can you file for divorce if the child is under one year old?

“How to get a divorce?” In general, divorce through RAЦС is not permitted if a child is under one year old. The only exception is if one spouse has committed violence against the other or the child. In those cases, divorce must proceed through the court.

How to file for divorce without the consent of one spouse?

When one spouse objects to divorce or refuses to participate, the petitioner must file through the court. Required steps are:

1. Prepare the package of legal documents and evidence.
2. Submit a lawsuit (petition) to the court at the respondent’s place of residence.
3. Attend court hearings to support the petition.
4. In simple cases without children, divorce may proceed even without the other spouse present. Legal advice is recommended.

Can you file for divorce at your place of residence?

Yes, filing through the court at the petitioner’s place of residence is permissible if minor children live with the petitioner. Proof of residence (e.g., housing certificate) must be attached. Otherwise, the case belongs to the court of the respondent’s registration.

How to submit a divorce application?

Through RAЦС:

• Both spouses appear in person.
• The application is submitted at least one month before the chosen final date.
• On the scheduled day, each confirms their decision, and the marriage is dissolved.

Through the court (Electronný Sud electronic system):

1. Register using a qualified electronic signature and email.
2. Choose a court according to jurisdiction.
3. Complete and submit the petition online, and attach PDFs of documents.
4. Pay court fee online; electronic submission gives a 20 % discount.
5. Receive a receipt and confirmation PDF.
6. Attend hearings as needed.
7. The court may issue a decision within the legal timeframe.

What documents are needed for a divorce?

Summarised in two lists:

RAЦС divorce (mutual, no under‑1‑year child)

• Original marriage certificate
• Passports of both spouses
• RNOКПП/ІПН of both
• Joint application form

Court divorce

• Passports and ІПН of both parties
• Marriage certificate
• Children’s birth certificates (if applicable)
• Proof of child living with petitioner (if applying at petitioner’s residence)
• Petition suit with reasons and evidence
• Court fee payment receipt
• Other supporting evidence as needed

How to Get a Divorce through “Diia”?

Currently (as of mid‑2025), it is not possible to file for divorce entirely through the Diia app. However, one may obtain an official electronic extract from the state registry confirming dissolution, once the court or RAЦС finalizes the divorce. That digital extract has the same legal value as a paper certificate. To apply for a divorce, users still must file via electronic court or appear at RAЦС.

Using Diia, applicants can:

• Order a PDF extract with QR code from the Registry
• Receive it by download, mail, or local RAЦС
• Use it in banks, notary offices, and official contexts

FAQ

How to file for divorce without agreement from one spouse?

File a petition in court, include required documents, and attend hearings.

Can a divorce be filed if a child is under one year old?

Not via RAЦС. Court divorce is allowed only in exceptional cases (such as domestic violence).

Can one apply at their place of residence?

Yes, if minor children live with the petitioner and proof is provided.

How to submit the divorce application?

Through RAЦС in person or to court via the Electronic Court system online.

How to Get a Divorce through "Diia"?

See the bulleted lists above for RAЦС and court cases.

Як розлучитися через "Дію"?

You cannot file for a divorce through Diia, but you can retrieve an electronic extract after the divorce is registered.

Where to submit the divorce application?

RAЦС in person, or court via Electronic Court, depending on whether there are children or disputes.

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Where to submit the divorce application?

• RAЦС route: Application filed in person at a local registry office. The jurisdiction is flexible during martial law—spouses may apply at any RAЦС location in Ukraine.
• Court route: The lawsuit is submitted either to the court at the respondent’s place of residence, or at the petitioner’s place if minor children live with the petitioner. Filing through the “Electronic Court” system is done online.