In Hawaii, it is legal for first cousins to marry. Here are the key points regarding cousin marriages in the state:
Legal Framework
- First Cousins Allowed: Hawaii law does not prohibit marriages between first cousins. The state only restricts marriages between closer relatives, such as siblings, half-siblings, and direct ancestors or descendants.
- Marriage License Application: Couples wishing to marry must apply for a marriage license. During this process, the application may inquire about the nature of the relationship, but being first cousins is not an impediment to obtaining a license.
- No Residency Requirement: Hawaii does not require either party to be a resident of the state to get married, making it accessible for non-residents as well.
Prohibited Relationships
Hawaii’s marriage laws explicitly prohibit marriages between:
- Siblings (full or half-blood)
- Parent and child (any degree)
- Uncle and niece, aunt and nephew (legitimate or illegitimate)
In summary, marrying your first cousin is legal in Hawaii, and there are no additional requirements or restrictions specifically targeting cousin relationships. Couples should ensure they comply with the general marriage application process while being aware that some states may not recognize such marriages if they have stricter laws against cousin marriages.
SOURCES
[1] https://www.dataminingdna.com/can-first-cousins-marry-in-hawaii/
[2] https://legacy.lambdalegal.org/publications/hawaii-marriage-faq
[3] https://www.themonastery.org/marriage-laws/hawaii
[4] https://www.insideedition.com/gallery/kissing-cousins-states-where-marrying-your-relative-legal-48234
