Divorce Procedure: Hi, what is the procedure for divorce to wife since I am abroad and she lives there in Pakistan. Do I need to be there for that and how long will it take to be done. I want to know full procedure. Thanks

ANSWER:

If you are currently residing abroad and wish to divorce your wife who is in Pakistan, you do not need to be physically present in Pakistan to proceed with the divorce. The process can be legally executed from abroad through the proper legal channel. Here is the complete procedure:

Step-by-Step Divorce Procedure from Abroad:

1. Prepare Divorce Deed and Power of Attorney:

   • You will prepare and sign a Divorce Deed (Talaq Nama) and a Special Power of Attorney (SPA) in favour of a relative or lawyer in Pakistan.

   • These documents must be notarized and then attested by the Pakistan Embassy/Consulate in your country of residence.

2. Dispatch to Pakistan:

   • Send the original attested documents to your attorney or representative in Pakistan via courier.

3. Filing with Union Council:

   • Your representative will submit the Divorce Deed along with the SPA to the Chairman of the Union Council of the area where your wife resides.

   • The Union Council will issue a notice to your wife and begin the 90-day reconciliation period as per Section 7 of the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance, 1961.

4. Reconciliation Proceedings:

   • The Union Council will attempt to reconcile the matter by issuing notices and conducting hearings (which your wife may or may not attend).

5. Issuance of Divorce Certificate:

   • If no reconciliation occurs within 90 days, the Union Council will issue a NADRA-verified Divorce Certificate, which legally confirms the divorce.

Duration:

The entire process takes approximately 90 days from the date the Union Council receives the divorce notice.

Documents Required:

• Divorce Deed (Talaq Nama)

• Special Power of Attorney

• Copies of CNICs/passports of both parties

• Nikahnama (Marriage Certificate)

• 2–3 passport-sized photographs

If you need help preparing the documents or appointing a legal representative, we at Pak-Lawyer Associates can fully assist you in completing the process smoothly and lawfully.

Please feel free to reach us at ask@paklawyer.com