Yes, cousin marriage is legal in the United Kingdom under the Marriage Act 1949, provided both parties are aged 18 or over and meet standard marriage requirements. No specific prohibition exists for first cousins, though prohibited degrees of relationship apply. The UK does not enforce religious or cultural bans, unlike some jurisdictions. However, immigration rules may scrutinise such unions for sham marriages under the Home Office’s Marriage and Civil Partnership (Minimum Age) Act 2022 and Immigration Rules Appendix FM.
Key Regulations for Cousin Marriage in United Kingdom
- Prohibited Degrees of Relationship: Marriages between lineal ancestors/descendants (e.g., parent-child) and full siblings are void under the Marriage Act 1949, but first cousins are not included. Adoption severs legal ties, allowing cousin marriages post-adoption.
- Age and Consent: Both parties must be 18+; marriages involving minors are void. The Marriage and Civil Partnership (Minimum Age) Act 2022 criminalises child marriages, effective from February 2023, with penalties up to 7 years imprisonment.
- Notice and Registration: Couples must give 28 days’ notice to a local register office under the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013. Religious ceremonies require an authorised officiant; civil ceremonies must comply with the Marriage Act 1949 and Registration Service Act 1953.