Can I Apply for Divorce or Dissolution Online in England and Wales?

Introduction: online applications made simple

Yes. You can start a divorce or dissolution online in England and Wales under the no‑fault system introduced by the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020. The government provides an online service that lets you submit a sole or joint application, pay the fee, and upload supporting documents without visiting a court in person.

Who can apply online

You can apply online if you meet eligibility rules: you and your partner have been married or in a civil partnership for at least 12 months, and at least one of you is habitually resident or domiciled in England or Wales. The service accepts applications from opposite sex and same sex couples. If international elements complicate your case check residency and jurisdiction issues before you start.

Sole applications versus joint applications

You can choose a sole application if only one partner wants the divorce or dissolution. The court will serve the other partner who can then respond. A joint application requires both partners to sign and submit a single online form. Joint applications often lower conflict, reduce paperwork and speed up processing where both parties agree.

What you need to start an online application

Prepare your marriage or civil partnership certificate, proof of identity, and evidence of habitual residence if requested. Gather basic details including names addresses dates of birth and the date you separated if relevant. If you cannot find your certificate you may need to request a copy before applying. Have digital copies ready to upload to the portal.

How the online process works step by step

– Create an account on the government divorce and dissolution service portal.

– Complete the online form for a sole or joint application.

– Upload required documents and pay the court fee, or apply for fee remission if you qualify.

– The court reviews the application and serves the other party.

– The court issues the conditional order once it accepts your application and you follow procedural steps.

– After the statutory waiting period you can apply online for the final order to end the marriage or partnership.

Costs and fee remission

You pay a court fee online when you submit your application. If you cannot afford the fee you may apply for fee remission and provide supporting evidence of income and savings. Costs for legal advice are separate from court fees and depend on how much assistance you need.

When you might need in‑person court involvement

Most straightforward applications proceed entirely online. You will need in‑person hearings when disputes arise, for example contested jurisdictional issues, serious safeguarding concerns for children, or complex disputes over finances that require contested hearings. The court will notify you when attendance is necessary.

Practical tips for a smooth online application

Complete forms carefully and upload clear scanned documents. Keep copies of all submissions and correspondence. Consider mediation to resolve finances and child arrangements before applying for contested court orders. Seek our legal advice if you have complex assets, pensions or international connections that affect jurisdiction or financial claims.

Conclusion: convenient but plan ahead

The online system makes starting a divorce or dissolution accessible and efficient for most people in England and Wales. Use the portal to apply, but plan for finances and children separately, and get specialist advice where complexity or high value assets exist to protect your long term interests.

At Alexander JLO we have many years of experience of dealing with all aspects of family law and will be happy to discuss your case in a free no obligation consultation. Why not call us on +44 (0)20 7537 7000, email us at info@london-law.co.uk or get in touch via the contact us button and see what we can do for you?

This blog was prepared by Peter Johnson on 1st December 2025 and is correct at the time of going to press. With over forty years of experience in almost all areas of law Peter is happy to assist with any legal issue that you have. He is widely regarded as one of London’s leading divorce lawyers. His profile on the independent Review Solicitor website can be found Here.

To follow up on any of the above please contact Guy Wilton of our family department. Guy has wide experience of acting for the firm’s clients, their family and their businesses. Guy’s experience as a lawyer started in the Northern and Welsh Circuits, including the Liverpool Courts, where he represented numerous clients after being called to the Bar, before opting to join Alexander JLO in 2017 and qualifying as a solicitor in 2024. He is a highly experienced family lawyer with a particular interest in financial remedy proceedings and child contact disputes.

Guy’s profile on the independent Review Solicitor website can be viewed here.