Divorce in Sri Lanka: an outline
Updated 14 November 2026. 6 minute read.
Which divorce law applies depends on how you married. Marriages under the General Marriage Registration Ordinance are dissolved by the District Court on grounds such as malicious desertion, adultery or incurable impotence. Kandyan marriages and Muslim marriages follow their own laws and procedures. Custody is decided in the best interests of the child.
General law
Under the general law, the District Court can grant a divorce on the grounds set out in the Marriage Registration Ordinance, including malicious desertion and adultery. Courts have also accepted constructive malicious desertion, where one spouse’s conduct forces the other to leave. Separation for seven years can found an action as well.
A divorce is first granted as a decree nisi and made absolute after a waiting period.
Kandyan law
Marriages registered under the Kandyan Marriage and Divorce Act can be dissolved, including by mutual consent, before the District Registrar under that Act.
Muslim law
For Muslim marriages, divorce is handled by the Quazi Court under the Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act, with appeals to the Board of Quazis.
Children and maintenance
Custody, access and maintenance are decided by the court in the best interests of the child. Maintenance for a spouse or children can also be claimed in the Magistrate’s Court under the Maintenance Act, which is often quicker.
This guide is general information about Sri Lankan law and practice. It is not legal advice, and the law may have changed. Speak to an Attorney-at-Law about your own situation.