Family

Pedido de Divórcio (Divorce Application)

Learn how to apply for divorce in Portugal: by mutual consent (registry office) or contested (court). Documents, costs and step-by-step guide.

What you need before you start

  • Updated marriage certificate (Certidão de casamento)
  • Cartão de Cidadão (Citizen Card) of both spouses
  • Agreement on division of assets, child custody and alimony (if by mutual consent)
  • NIF of both spouses
  • Process fee

Step by step

  1. Mutual consent divorce: both spouses go to the Civil Registry Office (Conservatória do Registo Civil)

  2. Present the written agreement on division of assets and child custody

  3. Pay the fee (approximately €280)

  4. The registrar verifies the agreements and decrees the divorce (can be immediate)

  5. Contested divorce: appoint a lawyer and file at the Family Court

  6. Follow the court proceedings (may include hearings and mediation)

  7. Once decreed, the divorce is annotated on the marriage certificate

  8. Update your civil status on the Citizen Card

Tip: If in doubt, always contact the official service directly.

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