Marriage Annulment

Ordinarily, a married couple can only get a divorce after they have been married for at least three years. However, circumstances do arise after marriage that may entitle them to annul the marriage instead. 

How is an annulment different to divorce?

An annulment renders the marriage null and void, treating it as if it never existed. A divorce acknowledges that the marriage existed and is now being dissolved in law.

How can you get an annulment of marriage in Singapore?

The marriage can be annulled on the following grounds. The other party:

• was already married to someone else at the time of the new marriage
• is refusing to consummate the marriage
• is unable to consummate the marriage
• was suffering from a sexually transmitted disease or infection before the marriage took place
• is suffering from mental illness making them unfit for marriage
• is pregnant by another man

How long does the annulment process take?

If your case is uncontested, it will take 4-6 months to be granted your Certificate of Nullity.

Will I be required to attend court?

In a non-contested case, you will be required as the applicant to attend court on one occasion.

What happens once the annulment has taken place?

When a marriage is annulled, the effect is as if the marriage never took place and parties revert to being “single” rather than “divorced”.

The Straits Times, in collaboration with Statista confirmed I.R.B Law as one of the leading family law firms in Singapore. Contact us to speak to one of our experienced annulment lawyers to discuss your options, a free initial consultation is usually offered.