Divorce (Skilsmisse) in Denmark
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Danish Acts of Parliament (love), executive orders (bekendtgørelser), and official government guidance. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
Denmark has a relatively straightforward divorce process:
- Mutual agreement: If both spouses agree to divorce and have no disputes about custody, assets, or support, a divorce can be granted immediately through Familieretshuset.
- Separation first: If one spouse does not consent, you can apply for a separation (separation), which is granted automatically. After 6 months of separation, either party can convert it to a full divorce without the other's consent.
- Immediate divorce without consent: Granted in cases of domestic violence, adultery, bigamy, or 2 years of de facto separation.
- Children under 18: If you have minor children, you must complete a mandatory digital guidance course on the impact of divorce on children, and Familieretshuset will assess whether further support is needed.
- Application fee: The divorce application fee is approximately DKK 875 (2025).
When does it apply?
- You are married in Denmark or have a marriage recognised under Danish law.
- You or your spouse want to end the marriage.
What to Do If You Want to Get Divorced in Denmark
- Apply through Familieretshuset at familieretshuset.dk — the application can be filed online.
- If you agree on everything, the divorce can be granted quickly — sometimes within weeks.
- If you have children under 18, complete the mandatory digital guidance course on the impact of divorce on children.
- If there are disputes about assets, custody, or support, Familieretshuset will attempt mediation first.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't skip the mandatory digital guidance course if you have minor children — it is required before the divorce can proceed.
- Don't move out without legal advice — your housing rights may be affected.
- Don't hide assets — full financial disclosure is required during the division of property.
Common Questions
How do I get divorced in Denmark?
Apply through Familieretshuset at familieretshuset.dk. If both spouses agree to the divorce and have no disputes about custody, assets, or support, a divorce can be granted immediately — sometimes within weeks. The application fee is approximately DKK 875 (2025). If you disagree, one spouse can apply for a separation first.
Can I get divorced in Denmark without my spouse's consent?
Yes, but the process takes longer. If one spouse does not consent, you can apply for a separation, which is granted automatically; after 6 months of separation, either party can convert it to a full divorce. Immediate divorce without consent is granted in cases of domestic violence, adultery, bigamy, or 2 years of de facto separation.
What if we have children under 18 when divorcing in Denmark?
You must complete a mandatory digital guidance course on the impact of divorce on children before the divorce can proceed. Familieretshuset will also assess whether further support is needed. If there are disputes about assets, custody, or support, Familieretshuset will attempt mediation first. Don't hide assets — full financial disclosure is required.
When does it apply — divorce (skilsmisse)?
You are married in Denmark or have a marriage recognised under Danish law.You or your spouse want to end the marriage.
What should I do if I want to start a divorce or separation in Denmark?
Apply through Familieretshuset at familieretshuset.dk — the application can be filed online.If you agree on everything, the divorce can be granted quickly — sometimes within weeks.If you have children under 18, complete the mandatory digital guidance course on the impact of divorce on children.If there are disputes about assets, custody, or support, Familieretshuset will attempt mediation first.
What should you NOT do — divorce (skilsmisse)?
Don't skip the mandatory digital guidance course if you have minor children — it is required before the divorce can proceed.Don't move out without legal advice — your housing rights may be affected.Don't hide assets — full financial disclosure is required during the division of property.