Divorced parents will get right to phone calls with their children from January 2026

Divorced parents will newly have a legally granted right to remote communication with their children. This applies to phone calls, SMS, or video calls. The changes will take effect from January 2026. They are included in the amendment to the Civil Code.

The amendment also allows courts to determine when, for how long, and by what means parents will communicate with their children. Phone calls or video calls must not disrupt the child's routine. For example, a parent cannot call every hour. Legal experts agree, however, that what is always best for the child is when the parents agree on care and phone calls between themselves, so that courts do not have to intervene.