Divorce 「離婚するには」

Divorce of Japanese and foreign national

If a person of the couple is Japanese, divorce is implemented based on the law of Japan. In case of divorce in Japanese way, and if both sides agree with the divorce, it is regarded as “divorce by consent” (Kyogi Rikon). On the other hand, divorce without mutual agreement is regarded as “divorce by arbitration” (Chotei Rikon). If agreement cannot be found by arbitration, the process goes on to the divorce procedure by lawsuit. However, in case that country’s law of the partner would not accept “divorce by consent” (Kyogi Rikon) or “divorce by arbitration” (Chotei Rikon), the divorce in Japan cannot be acknowledged by the government of the person’s home country. For further information, please contact city hall or consulate (embassy) of the belonging country.

Divorce of foreign nationals

If both partners have same nationality, the divorce is implemented based on the law of their home country. If the couple have different nationalities without common law of respective country for this issue and both persons have residence in Japan, the divorce is implemented based on the law of Japan. However, please be aware that the divorce in Japan has no validation with the law of home country if respective country’s law would not accept “divorce by consent” (Kyogi Rikon).

[Contact]

　Civic Affairs Division
　Telephone: 0533-89-2136