Yes, cousin marriage is legal in Singapore under the Women’s Charter, provided parties meet age and consent requirements. The Registry of Marriages (ROM) processes applications, but consanguinity prohibits unions between lineal ancestors/descendants and siblings. No explicit ban exists for first cousins, though religious and social norms may influence approval.
Key Regulations for Cousin Marriage in Singapore
- Consanguinity Prohibitions: The Women’s Charter (Cap. 353) bars marriages between lineal relatives (e.g., parent-child, siblings) and descendants of the same lineal ancestor. First cousins are not explicitly prohibited but must comply with general marriage laws.
- Age and Consent: Parties must be at least 21 years old (or 18 with parental consent). The ROM verifies identity and capacity, including mental competence, to prevent coercion.
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: The ROM’s upcoming digitalization of marriage registration may introduce stricter document verification, including genetic testing for suspected consanguinity cases to align with public health policies.
Marriage applicants must declare their relationship status truthfully. Misrepresentation risks annulment under Section 105 of the Women’s Charter. Non-residents must also comply with Singapore’s immigration and family law frameworks.