How To Obtain a Divorce Certificate After Divorce Procedure In Pakistan?

Divorce Procedure In Pakistan is not legally finalized until a divorce certificate is issued by the relevant Union Council or local government authority. This certificate is a critical legal document that confirms the dissolution of marriage and is required for updating marital status on official records, remarrying, or dealing with matters like inheritance, custody, or immigration. Whether the divorce occurs through talaq, khula, or mutual consent, the process of obtaining the divorce certificate follows a defined legal pathway.

Step-by-Step Process to Obtain a Divorce Certificate

1. Completion of the Divorce Procedure

Before applying for a divorce certificate, the divorce must be finalized. This can happen in three main ways:

  • Talaq (by husband): The husband pronounces divorce and notifies the Union Council.

  • Khula (by wife through court): The wife files for divorce in the Family Court, and once granted, the court issues a decree.

Divorce Procedure In Pakistan


  • Mutual Divorce: Both spouses agree to divorce and submit a written declaration to the Union Council.

In all cases, the process includes a 90-day reconciliation period initiated by the Union Council after receiving the divorce notice.

2. Notify the Union Council

The Union Council plays a central role in the Divorce Procedure In Pakistan. The steps involved include:

  • Written Notice Submission: In the case of talaq or mutual divorce, a written notice must be submitted to the Chairman of the Union Council of the wife’s area of residence. In a khula, the Family Court sends the court decree to the Union Council.

  • Formation of Arbitration Council: Upon receiving the notice or decree, the Union Council sets up an Arbitration Council to attempt reconciliation between the spouses.

  • Reconciliation Period: A mandatory 90-day waiting period follows the notice. If reconciliation fails, the divorce is considered effective after this period ends.

3. Issuance of Divorce Certificate

After the 90-day reconciliation period, the Union Council proceeds to issue the Nikkah Dissolution Certificate (commonly called the divorce certificate). The following steps must be completed:

  • Application Submission: Either party can apply for the divorce certificate by submitting an application along with:

    • Copy of CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card)

    • Copy of the marriage certificate (Nikah Nama)

    • Copy of the divorce deed or court decree

    • Passport-sized photographs

    • Any applicable fee

  • Verification and Approval: The Union Council verifies the documents and confirms that the 90-day period has passed without reconciliation.

  • Certificate Issuance: Once verification is complete, the Union Council issues the Form 'B' Divorce Certificate, which serves as the official proof of divorce.

Where to Obtain the Certificate

The divorce certificate must be obtained from the Union Council (or Arbitration Council in cantonment or urban areas) of the wife’s place of residence, not the husband’s. In major cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, this may be handled by Metropolitan Corporation offices or local administrations under the NADRA system (National Database and Registration Authority).

Importance of the Divorce Certificate

The divorce certificate is essential for:

  • Updating marital status in NADRA records

  • Applying for remarriage

  • Child custody or guardianship issues

  • Immigration or foreign visa applications

  • Property, inheritance, or financial claims

Divorce Procedure In Pakistan


Without this document, the divorce may not be recognized legally, and disputes can arise over marital status.

Conclusion

Obtaining a divorce certificate in Pakistan is the final legal step in the divorce process. Whether the separation occurred through talaq, khula, or mutual consent, the issuance of the divorce certificate by the Union Council confirms the marriage's dissolution. Completing the reconciliation period, submitting required documents, and applying through the correct court like Hamza & Hamza Law Associates ensures that the divorce is legally acknowledged and properly documented. This certificate safeguards your legal rights and serves as official proof of your marital status in Pakistan and abroad.

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