How Long Does a Divorce Case Take in Turkey? (2026 Current Timelines)
An uncontested divorce takes an average of 1-2 months, while a contested divorce takes 1-2 years at first instance. The factors determining the duration are the type of case, the state of the evidence, the number of witnesses, and the court's caseload.
The most frequently asked question when entering a divorce process is how long the case will take. The answer changes fundamentally depending on whether the case is uncontested or contested.
How Long Does an Uncontested Divorce Take?
Uncontested divorce cases, in which the parties have agreed on the divorce and all of its consequences (custody, alimony, compensation, division of property), conclude on average within 1-2 months, depending on how busy the court is. Where an early hearing date can be obtained, some files are closed within a few weeks.
Conditions for an uncontested divorce:
- The marriage must have lasted at least 1 year
- The parties must apply to the court together, or one must accept the other's case
- Both parties must be personally present at the hearing
- The judge must find the arrangements in the protocol (especially those relating to children) appropriate
How Long Does a Contested Divorce Take?
Contested divorce cases, in which one of the parties does not accept the divorce or its consequences, take on average 1 to 2 years at the court of first instance. If the decision is appealed and taken to cassation, the total duration may extend to 3-4 years.
What Factors Affect the Duration?
| Factor | Effect |
|---|---|
| The court's caseload | Intervals between hearings can extend to 3-5 months |
| Number of witnesses | Only a limited number of witnesses are heard per hearing; many witnesses = many hearings |
| Expert examination and social investigation | Report processes can add 2-4 months |
| Service-of-process problems | An incorrect address is the most common reason for months of delay |
| Timing of evidence submission | Missing evidence gives rise to requests for a new hearing |
What Can Be Done to Speed Up the Process?
- Submit the evidence from the start: Bank records, messages, photographs, and the witness list should be submitted together with the case petition.
- Provide correct service addresses: The other party's current address is the most critical detail in the process.
- Keep the door to settlement open: A case that begins as contested can be converted to uncontested at any stage; this often saves more than 1 year.
- Prepare thoroughly for hearings: Preparation with your lawyer before each hearing reduces the risk of an additional hearing.
Summary
- Uncontested divorce: 1-2 months
- Contested divorce (first instance): 1-2 years
- With appeal + cassation: up to 3-4 years
- The most effective way to speed things up: complete evidence submission and, where possible, switching to an uncontested divorce
Sources
- Turkish Civil Code No. 4721, Art. 166 — Irretrievable breakdown of the marital union
- Code of Civil Procedure No. 6100 — Procedural rules
Frequently Asked Questions
This article has been prepared for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Legislation and case law may change; always consult a lawyer about your specific case.