The Problem
In a Turkish divorce, alimony (nafaka) is a critical but often misunderstood issue, especially for international couples. Turkish law provides multiple types of alimony with different rules for each. Foreign spouses may not realize that Turkish courts can award indefinite post-divorce alimony, that alimony can be requested even during the divorce proceedings, and that enforcement of Turkish alimony orders across borders requires specific legal procedures.
How the Law Works in Turkey
Alimony in Turkey is governed by TMK Articles 169, 175, and 182. Types: interim alimony (tedbir nafakası, Article 169) during proceedings; post-divorce alimony (yoksulluk nafakası, Article 175) for the spouse who falls into financial difficulty due to divorce; and child support (iştirak nafakası, Article 182) for children custody. Post-divorce alimony is indefinite until the recipient remarries, cohabits with another person, or either party dies. The amount considers: income and assets of both parties, the marriage duration, the standard of living during marriage, and the reason for divorce.
What the Tourist Should Do
Request interim alimony at the start of divorce proceedings to cover living expenses during the case. Gather comprehensive financial documentation: bank statements, tax returns, property records, and income evidence for both spouses. Present evidence of your financial need and the other spouse ability to pay. If the initial amount is insufficient, request an increase through the court. For cross-border enforcement, use the Hague Convention on Maintenance Obligations or bilateral agreements.
The Risks
Alimony obligations can be modified but only through court proceedings — informal agreements are not enforceable. Hiding assets to reduce alimony can result in criminal fraud charges. Foreign alimony orders are not automatically enforceable in Turkey — they require recognition and enforcement proceedings (tenfiz). Alimony payments do not automatically adjust for inflation; periodic increase requests must be filed separately.
LetFix Solution
LetFix handles alimony matters for international couples in Turkey. Our family lawyers calculate appropriate alimony amounts, present compelling financial evidence, and manage cross-border enforcement of support orders.
