No, it is not illegal to marry your cousin in Alabama. First cousins are allowed to marry without restriction under Alabama law.
What Alabama Law Says About Cousin Marriage
- First Cousin Marriage:
Alabama permits marriage between first cousins. There are no special restrictions or conditions—first cousins can legally marry, have sexual relations, and cohabit in the state. - Other Types of Cousin Marriages:
The law also allows for marriage between first cousins once-removed, half-cousins, and cousins through adoption. - Prohibited Relationships:
While first cousin marriage is legal, Alabama law prohibits marriage between siblings, parents and children, uncles/aunts and nieces/nephews, grandparents and grandchildren, and stepchildren/stepparents (if the marriage created that relationship).
How Alabama Compares to Other States
- Alabama is among 17 states where first cousin marriage is fully legal, with no restrictions.
- In contrast, 24 states prohibit first cousin marriage, and some states allow it only under specific conditions (such as age or infertility).
Additional Considerations
- Residency:
You do not need to be an Alabama resident to marry your cousin in Alabama, but some counties may have local requirements. - Recognition:
Marriages performed legally in Alabama are recognized by federal law and, generally, by other states—even if those states prohibit cousin marriage themselves.
Table: Cousin Marriage in Alabama
| Relationship Type | Legal to Marry in Alabama? |
|---|---|
| First Cousin | Yes |
| First Cousin Once-Removed | Yes |
| Half-Cousin | Yes |
| Adopted Cousin | Yes |
| Sibling, Parent, etc. | No |
It is completely legal to marry your cousin in Alabama—there are no restrictions for first cousins or other cousin relationships under state law.
Sources
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cousin_marriage_law_in_the_United_States
- https://shellesimonlaw.com/first-cousin-marriage-under-us-immigration-law/
- https://www.lawinfo.com/resources/family-law/alabama/
- https://www.insideedition.com/gallery/kissing-cousins-states-where-marrying-your-relative-legal-48234
- https://www.newsweek.com/map-states-marry-cousin-tennessee-ban-1889727
