Yes, cousin marriage is legal in Hawaii under specific conditions. The state permits first-cousin unions, but prohibits marriages between closer relatives (e.g., siblings, half-siblings). Hawaii’s Department of Health, Vital Records Division, enforces these rules, aligning with the 2026 Uniform Marriage and Divorce Act updates to ensure consistency with federal compliance standards.
Key Regulations for Cousin Marriage in Hawaii
- Permissible Relationships: First cousins may marry, but unions between closer relatives (e.g., aunt/uncle, parent/child) are void. This aligns with Hawaii Revised Statutes §572-1, which codifies prohibited degrees of consanguinity.
- Medical Disclosures: Applicants must certify no genetic disorders under §572-2, though no genetic testing is mandated. The Hawaii Department of Health may flag high-risk cases for further review.
- Licensing Requirements: A marriage license, issued by the county clerk (e.g., Honolulu, Maui), requires proof of identity and compliance with state statutes. Processing fees apply, with no additional fees for cousin marriages.