Viral Claim “No More Divorce in the UK” Debunked

A viral image circulating online claims that new Home Office rules prohibit divorce in the UK—especially for individuals on spouse visas. However, this statement is entirely false.

Under UK law, divorce remains legal. Since April 2022, England and Wales operate a no-fault divorce system, simplifying the process by removing the need to assign blame or meet specific grounds .

For foreign nationals on a UK spouse visa, the end of the relationship does have significant immigration consequences. The Home Office requires both parties to notify them upon separation or divorce. Typically, the visa will be curtailed, offering a grace period—usually 60 days—to either apply for a new visa or depart .

Despite this, there has been no recent policy change that bans divorce or makes ending a marriage impossible. The viral graphic misrepresents UK law.

In summary:

Divorce is fully legal and made simpler under no-fault legislation.
Spouse visa holders must notify the Home Office if their relationship ends.
Visas may be curtailed, but alternative legal routes remain open.
There is no policy that bans divorce, and the viral claim is false.