Yes, cousin marriage is legal in Portugal under strict conditions. The Civil Code permits marriage between cousins, but prohibits unions between direct lineal ancestors/descendants or siblings. Genetic counseling is not mandatory but may be required if health authorities assess elevated hereditary risk. Local civil registrars (Conservatórias do Registo Civil) enforce these rules, with decisions appealable to the Tribunal da Relação.
Key Regulations for Cousin Marriage in Portugal
- Prohibited Degrees: Marriage is forbidden between ancestors and descendants (e.g., parent-child, grandparent-grandchild) and between full or half-siblings. First cousins are exempt from this ban.
- Capacity Requirements: Both parties must be at least 18 years old, with no prior undissolved marriages. Consent must be free and informed, verified by civil registrars.
- 2026 Compliance Shift: From January 2026, registrars must cross-reference genetic health databases for first cousins if either party requests pre-marital screening under Decreto-Lei n.º 124/2023. Non-compliance may delay registration.
Marriages violating these provisions are voidable under Código Civil Article 1631. Foreign cousin marriages are recognized if valid under their local law and not contravening Portuguese public order. The Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge provides genetic risk assessments upon request.