For filing for a separation or divorce in US , do we both parties need to live and have residence in the states ?

     In order to file for divorce in Florida, one of the parties has to have lived in Florida for at least  six months prior to filing the petition for dissolution.  So, if you have been here for six months the court has jurisdiction.  You do not mention whether this divorce will be amicable or not.  If you are in agreement to most issues, you could be divorced in two months.  You also do not state how long you need to be back in Europe to renew your visas.  If it is for a short period of time, it should not effect your ability to continue the divorce here upon your return.         As an aside, we do not have legal separation in Florida, so that option is not available to you.          Best of luck,       Cindy S. Vova