Filing for divorce can already feel emotionally and logistically overwhelming—but what happens when your spouse doesn’t live in Texas? The good news: you can still file for divorce in Texas, even if your spouse resides in another state or country. However, there are important jurisdictional rules and procedural nuances you’ll need to navigate.
This guide will walk you through the key legal issues, practical considerations, and tips for divorcing a spouse who lives outside of Texas.
Understanding Jurisdiction: Can You File in Texas?
The ability to file for divorce in Texas is not dependent on where your spouse lives—it depends on where you live. According to Texas Family Code § 6.301, to file for divorce in Texas, you must meet these residency requirements:
- You (the Petitioner) must have lived in Texas for at least 6 months prior to filing; and
- You must have lived in the county where you file for at least 90 days.
Even if your spouse lives in another state—or another country—you can still file in your Texas county of residence, provided you meet these requirements.
✅ Tip: Proof of residency may include a lease, utility bill, Texas driver’s license, or other documentation showing continuous residence.
What If My Spouse Never Lived in Texas?
If your spouse has never lived in Texas, your ability to obtain certain court orders—especially regarding property division, child custody, and support—may be limited. Here’s how Texas courts break it down:
Divorce Decree Only
Texas courts can always grant a divorce as long as jurisdictional requirements are met by the Petitioner. However, if your spouse has no minimum contact with Texas (such as never having lived here or owning property here), the court may not have jurisdiction to divide property located outside Texas or make orders affecting your spouse.
Property Division & Support
If your spouse has minimum contacts with Texas (such as past residence, ownership of Texas property, or business activities), then the court may exercise “personal jurisdiction” and divide community property, award spousal maintenance, or enforce other obligations.
If no personal jurisdiction exists, the court may still dissolve the marriage but cannot make financial or support orders against your spouse.
Child Custody & Support
For children, the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) governs jurisdiction. If Texas is the child’s home state (i.e., lived in Texas for the past 6 months), then Texas has jurisdiction to issue custody and support orders—regardless of where the other parent lives.
⚖️ Legal Tip: Jurisdiction over your spouse is critical if you’re requesting anything beyond the divorce itself—especially spousal support or enforcement of property division.
Service of Process Outside Texas
When your spouse lives in another state or country, Texas law allows for out-of-state service of process. The divorce petition must be formally served according to Rule 108 of the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure or through the Hague Convention (if international).
Methods include:
- Certified mail with return receipt (in some cases)
- Personal service by a process server or sheriff in their jurisdiction
- International service under treaty rules
✉️ Tip: Start early—international service can take several weeks to months depending on the country involved.
Can My Spouse Object to Jurisdiction?
Yes. If your spouse believes that Texas does not have jurisdiction, they can file a special appearance to challenge the court’s authority. This is a complex legal argument, and the court will review factors like:
- Where the parties lived during marriage
- Where property is located
- Where the children live
- Whether your spouse has any ties to Texas
What Happens If My Spouse Doesn’t Respond?
If your spouse fails to respond to the divorce petition after proper service, you may proceed with a default divorce. In Texas, after the statutory waiting period of 60 days (from the date of filing), the judge can grant your divorce—even if your spouse lives out of state and does not participate.
However, you must still prove:
- That your spouse was properly served
- That jurisdiction exists for the relief you’re requesting
Tips for Filing Divorce in Texas When Your Spouse Lives Elsewhere
Here are some helpful strategies to make your cross-border divorce smoother:
✅ 1. Collect Proof of Residency
Before filing, gather documents showing your Texas residence for the past 6 months.
✅ 2. Anticipate Jurisdictional Issues
If your spouse has no ties to Texas, be cautious about requesting property or spousal support orders.
✅ 3. Use Professional Process Servers
Especially for out-of-state or international service, using experienced legal professionals ensures compliance with procedural rules.
✅ 4. Prepare for a Default Judgment
If your spouse ignores the divorce, prepare your evidence carefully to obtain a default order.
✅ 5. Work With a Divorce Service Familiar With Texas Law
Navigating these jurisdictional complexities requires precision—working with professionals who understand Texas procedures is invaluable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 🙋♀️🙋♂️
Yes, if you meet Texas residency requirements. International service may be more complex, but it’s still possible.
It depends. If your spouse has sufficient ties to Texas, the court may issue property and support orders. Otherwise, only a divorce can be granted.
Yes—if Texas is the child’s home state under UCCJEA, the court has jurisdiction to issue custody and child support orders.
You can request a default judgment after the 60-day waiting period, as long as service was valid.
Possibly. In some Texas counties, uncontested or default divorces can be finalized with a short hearing or affidavit. Some courts allow virtual appearances.
Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to Divorce Alone
Even if your spouse lives out of state—or out of the country—you don’t have to be stuck. Texas law allows you to move forward and reclaim your independence. The key is to understand jurisdiction, follow proper procedures, and work with professionals who can help you navigate the process smoothly.
🚀 Ready to Begin Your Divorce in Texas?
At Ready Divorce Service, we specialize in low-cost, uncontested divorces across Texas—even when your spouse doesn’t live here. Whether you’re in Dallas, Tarrant, Collin, or Harris County, we’ll help you file correctly and move forward with peace of mind.
👉 Call us now at (800) 432-0018
🖥️ Start your divorce online today
