In Nepal, there are two primary ways: 

• Mutual Consent Divorce (where both parties agree) and 
• Court Decision/Contested Divorce (where one party initiates it based on legal grounds). 

If both the husband and wife agree on all terms, a mutual divorce can typically be finalized within 2 working days in the District Court.

A contested divorce (without mutual consent) generally takes at least one year. 

Yes. You can appoint an Authorized Power of Attorney (Adhikrit Warisnama) in Nepal through the Nepalese Embassy in your country of residence to represent you in court without being physically present.

 Grounds include the wife living separately for 3+ years without consent, physical or mental torture (cruelty), or proof of adultery.

In addition to separation (3+ years) and cruelty, a wife can file for divorce if the husband commits bigamy, marital rape, or fails to provide maintenance/expels her from the house.

In addition to separation (3+ years) and cruelty, a wife can file for divorce if the husband commits bigamy, marital rape, or fails to provide maintenance/expels her from the house.

No. you can file for divorce using other evidence of marriage, such as photos of the rituals or invitation cards and social proofs.

According to the Muluki Civil Code 2074, the wife is generally entitled to an equal share of the husband’s ancestral property (Ansha) before the divorce is finalized.

Yes. A wife can opt for a lump-sum payment or monthly/annual alimony based on the husband’s income and assets if she chooses not to take a share of the property.

A wife may not be entitled to property if she is proven to have committed adultery, caused severe physical/mental hurt to the husband, or expelled the husband from the house.

Custody is determined by the "Best Interest of the Child." Typically:

• Under 5 years: Custody usually goes to the mother.
• 5 to 10 years: Usually goes to the mother unless she has remarried.
• Above 10 years: The court takes the child’s preference into account.

Yes. If the mother remarries or if it is proven that the mother cannot provide a safe and healthy environment, the father can claim custody.

The non-custodial parent is legally entitled to reasonable visitation rights to maintain a meaningful relationship with the child, as determined by the court or mutual agreement.

While a mutual divorce is simple, a lawyer ensures that your Settlement Agreement is legally sound and protects your long-term interests regarding property and children.

Contested cases involve complex evidence gathering and legal arguments. A specialized family lawyer in Nepal helps navigate the court process, handles mediation, and ensures that the final verdict is fair.