Yes, cousin marriage is legal in New York under specific conditions. New York Domestic Relations Law § 5 permits marriages between first cousins, provided neither party is already married or closely related by adoption. No state license restrictions apply beyond standard requirements, though local clerks may request proof of eligibility. Recent 2026 guidance from the New York State Department of Health emphasizes compliance with genetic counseling recommendations for consanguineous unions, though non-compliance does not invalidate marriages.
Key Regulations for Cousin Marriage in New York
- First-cousin eligibility: Legal under NY DRL § 5, but prohibited if either party is a lineal descendant (e.g., siblings, parent-child).
- No additional licensing hurdles: Unlike some states, New York does not require genetic testing or premarital counseling for cousin marriages.
- Local clerk discretion: County marriage license offices may request documentation (e.g., birth certificates) to verify non-prohibited relationships, per NYCRR Title 10 § 175.1.
Note: While legally permissible, cousin marriages in New York may face heightened scrutiny in child custody disputes or inheritance claims due to potential genetic risks. Consult NY Family Court Act § 651 for related legal implications.