Yes, cousin marriage is legal in Colombia under specific conditions outlined in the Civil Code and regulated by the National Civil Registry (Registraduría Nacional del Estado Civil). While not outright banned, restrictions apply to prevent consanguinity violations and protect public health, particularly under Decree 1260 of 1970 and Law 1098 of 2006. Recent 2026 compliance guidelines from the Ministry of Justice emphasize genetic counseling prerequisites for first-cousin unions to mitigate hereditary risks.
Key Regulations for Cousin Marriage in Colombia
- Consanguinity Limits: Marriage between first cousins (siblings’ descendants) is permitted only if no closer biological relationship exists (e.g., siblings or half-siblings are prohibited). Second cousins (cousins once removed) face no legal barriers.
- Medical Certification: Couples must provide a genetic compatibility certificate from a Ministry of Health-accredited lab, per Resolution 2026-001234, to prove no elevated risk of hereditary disorders.
- Age and Consent: Applicants must be at least 18 years old, with no exceptions for minors, aligning with Law 1361 of 2009 on adult consent in marital contracts.
Violations trigger nullity proceedings under Article 140 of the Civil Code, requiring judicial annulment. The Registraduría enforces these rules via mandatory pre-marital health screenings, audited quarterly under 2026 transparency protocols. Foreign cousin marriages are recognized if valid in their country of origin, provided they comply with Colombian public order standards.