Yes, cousin marriage is legal in Switzerland under strict conditions. The Swiss Civil Code permits marriages between first cousins if they provide genetic counseling certificates and meet other safeguards. Local cantonal authorities enforce these rules, with the Federal Office of Justice monitoring compliance. Recent 2026 amendments to the Marriage Act further clarify genetic testing requirements.
Key Regulations for Cousin Marriage in Switzerland
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Genetic Counseling Mandate: Couples must undergo mandatory genetic counseling from a licensed Swiss medical geneticist before marriage. The Federal Act on Human Genetic Testing (2026 revision) outlines the counseling framework, ensuring risks of hereditary disorders are disclosed.
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Cantonal Approval: Local civil registry offices (Zivilstandsamt) in each canton verify compliance with genetic counseling and other prerequisites. Cantons like Geneva and Zurich impose additional administrative checks under their public health ordinances.
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Prohibited Degrees: Marriages between siblings, half-siblings, or direct lineal descendants remain strictly forbidden under Article 96 of the Swiss Civil Code. First cousins are the only collateral relatives permitted to marry, subject to counseling.