Divorce in the Netherlands in 2020 – What you need to know

Relationships can change at any stage of our lives, including while living in another country. If the time comes to get divorced, understanding your legal rights will help you achieve the best possible outcome. 

The options for expats

Some people will argue that there is nowhere easier than the Netherlands to get divorced. Most of the time, it is possible for internationals living in the Netherlands to get divorced here. This is true even if you are not a Dutch national and / or you got married in another country.

This does not automatically mean that Dutch law will apply to all aspects of your divorce. It means that a Dutch judge can rule on the divorce. The law that will apply to other aspects depends on your habitual residence and various other factors.

Grounds for divorce

Certain countries have specific requirements for divorce. In the Netherlands, you do not need to provide a reason. All that is required is that at least one spouse asserts that the marriage has broken down irretrievably. The reason for divorce is not legally relevant and the divorce is always considered no-fault.  A period of separation is not necessary; you can file for divorce while still living in the same house.

Divorce process

There are two processes for divorce. In a joint divorce, both partners agree with the divorce and the divorce terms. This is the quickest form of divorce.

If the partners do not agree, one spouse can file an individual petition for divorce. In this scenario, the judge might also include decisions on all matters submitted, like the division of property, partner alimony, and child maintenance.

Division of property

Often the most challenging part of a divorce is the division and settlement of property. The property is divided and / or (partly) settled based on either a matrimonial community of property or a prenuptial agreement. What falls under the scope of "marital community of property" depends on the law applicable to the division of the assets.

Children and child maintenance

Parents are obliged to look after their children financially in all situations, including after divorce. Child maintenance is calculated until a certain date, but can be changed later depending on the circumstances.

If your children are minors, you will also need to make a parenting plan. This includes agreements about child support, the child’s residence, division of care, and more.

Partner alimony

Many divorces also involve partner alimony. Currently, the main rule is that the duration of the partner alimony is half the duration of the marriage, with a maximum of five years. There are exceptions to this rule for spouses with children under the age of 12 and for long marriages.

Get advice you can trust

A good (international) divorce lawyer can make a big difference during the divorce process. Your lawyer has the expertise to advise you on your rights, options and obligations regarding your children, the division of property, partner alimony and child maintenance. They can guide you through the process, litigate for you in court if needed, and represent you during difficult negotiations with your spouse.

GMW lawyers has a large team of family lawyers who understand the needs of expats and can help you with your divorce in English. With highly experienced experts and access to a wide network of family lawyers abroad, GMW lawyers can help you achieve the best legal outcome, no matter how complex the case. Contact them via the button below, or download their whitepaper: Top 10 FAQs about divorce.