Yes, it is legal to marry your first cousin in Georgia. The state allows first cousin marriages, meaning two people who share the same grandparents (but not the same parents) are allowed to get married under Georgia law.
While many U.S. states have restrictions or outright bans on cousin marriages, Georgia is one of the states where it is fully legal. This includes both first cousins and more distant relatives like second cousins, who are also legally allowed to marry.
What Does Georgia Law Say About Family Marriages?
Georgia’s marriage laws list which close family relationships are not allowed to marry. These include:
Parent and child
Siblings (brothers and sisters)
Grandparents and grandchildren
Uncles or aunts with nieces or nephews
Half-siblings
However, first cousins are not on that list, which means the law does not forbid cousin marriage.
Why Is Cousin Marriage Legal in Some States?
Marriage laws in the United States are made at the state level, which is why they vary. Some states banned cousin marriage in the past because of concerns over genetics and health risks to children.
But modern studies show the risk of birth defects in cousin marriages is only slightly higher than average, and many countries around the world still allow it.
In Georgia, the law takes a more open stance, allowing adults to make their own decisions when it comes to marrying their cousins.
Do You Need Special Permission?
No, you don’t need any special legal approval to marry your cousin in Georgia. You just need to meet the standard marriage requirements like:
Both partners must be at least 18 years old (or 17 with court approval)
You must not be closely related in a way that is forbidden by law
You must apply for and receive a valid marriage license from the county probate court
Once those conditions are met, you can legally marry your cousin just like anyone else.
Can You Marry Your Cousin From Another State?
If you’re from another state where cousin marriage is banned, and you come to Georgia to get married, your cousin marriage is still legal in Georgia.
But whether it’s recognized in your home state depends on that state’s laws. Some states may not recognize the marriage if they consider it invalid under their own rules.
If you’re planning to live in another state afterward, it’s best to check local laws or speak to a legal expert before making the move.
In Georgia, marrying your cousin is completely legal. The law does not forbid marriage between first cousins or more distant relatives. If both individuals are of legal age and not closely related beyond what the law restricts, the state allows the marriage without special conditions.
While the topic may still be controversial socially, from a legal point of view, Georgia has no issue with cousin marriage. Always make sure to check both local and state laws if you’re planning to marry and live in different places.
