As the number of international expats in China continues to increase, divorces between international couples in China are also on the rise and courts are beginning to feel the strain and pressure of handling such cases, which are leading to delays in the courtroom.
Over recent years, the divorce rates of international couples has been steadily increasing. Beijing Fengtai Court reports that in 2010, divorces between international couples rose by 50% compared with the previous year. Fengtai judge,Yang Zheng who conducted the report’s research, told the Global Times “there were 35 divorce cases in her district in 2010, seven or eight of which involved foreigners” figures which Zheng deemed to be "definitely higher than before."
According to the Beijing Government website, if you wish to get a divorce, then you are required to go to the Division of Foreign-Related Marriage Registration at the Beijing Civil Affairs Bureau and file for divorce, bringing with you your spouse’s ID, your marriage certificates, a divorce agreement signed by both parties, and your own passport.
Divorcing in China can be a lengthy procedure if you’re a foreigner, so if you do require a divorce, be prepared as you may have a long wait ahead of you.
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