Does a Woman Have to Observe Iddah in Her Husband’s House After a Third Divorce or Khula?

Iddah After Third Divorce or Khula: Does a Woman Have to Stay in Her Husband’s House?

Question: A woman has already received two divorces from her husband. If he gives her a third divorce or she seeks Khula (a form of divorce initiated by the wife), does she have to observe the waiting period (Iddah) in her husband’s house, or can she do it elsewhere since she is disheartened by her husband? The woman asks if she should request it herself before her husband gives the third divorce.

Answer: It is not permissible for a husband to divorce without a valid reason, nor is it permissible for a wife to seek Khula without a valid reason; doing so is sinful. However, if there is a legitimate Islamic reason, the wife may request a divorce or Khula from her husband. The woman should consult a nearby scholar and explain her situation fully to determine if seeking a divorce or Khula is appropriate in her case before taking any steps.

If the husband gives the third divorce or Khula occurs, it is not necessary for the wife to observe the Iddah in her husband’s house. She can observe the Iddah anywhere because there is no possibility of reconciliation after the third divorce, and there is no reconciliation in Khula either.

 Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi Hafizahullah

❪Jeddah Dawah Center, Hayy Al-Salamah – Saudi Arabia❫