Marriage laws can be different in every U.S. state, especially when it comes to marrying family members. One common question is: Can you legally marry your cousin in Minnesota? The answer may surprise you, because cousin marriage is treated differently in each state.
In this guide, we’ll explain what Minnesota law says about cousin marriages, which types are allowed or banned, and what exceptions may apply.
Can You Marry Your Cousin in Minnesota?
The simple answer is: No, you cannot legally marry your first cousin in Minnesota. The state law clearly says that marriage between close blood relatives — including first cousins — is not allowed.
So, if you and your cousin are closely related by blood, you cannot get legally married in Minnesota.
What Is Considered a First Cousin?
A first cousin is someone who shares the same grandparents as you, but not the same parents. For example:
Your mother’s brother’s son is your first cousin
Your father’s sister’s daughter is your first cousin
Since you are directly related through your parents’ siblings, the state sees this relationship as too close for marriage.
What the Law Says (Minnesota Statutes § 517.03)
Minnesota law clearly states that a marriage is not allowed between people who are closely related by blood. This includes:
Parent and child
Siblings
Half-siblings
Aunt and nephew
Uncle and niece
First cousins
So, first cousin marriage is included in the list of prohibited relationships under Minnesota marriage laws.
Are There Any Exceptions?
Yes — but only in very limited cases.
Minnesota allows cousin marriages only if both parties are from a culture or community where cousin marriage is a custom, and both parties are over 65 years old, and neither one can have children. This is a rare situation and applies to very few people.
If you don’t meet these specific conditions, the marriage will not be recognized under Minnesota law.
Can You Marry Your Cousin in Another State?
Here’s something interesting: Some U.S. states do allow first cousin marriages, such as:
California
Colorado
New York
Florida
Texas (with some restrictions)
So, if you and your cousin legally marry in another state where it’s allowed, Minnesota might recognize the marriage when you return — as long as it was legal in the state where you got married.
But this can be a grey area, and it’s a good idea to speak to a family law attorney in Minnesota to confirm whether the state will accept your cousin marriage.
What About Second Cousins?
Yes, you can legally marry your second cousin in Minnesota.
A second cousin means you share the same great-grandparents but not the same grandparents. Minnesota law does not ban second cousin marriages, because the blood relation is considered distant enough.
So, if your cousin is from a later generation (like second or third cousin), you are legally allowed to marry them in the state.
What Happens If You Try to Marry Your Cousin in Minnesota?
If you apply for a marriage license and the government finds out you’re first cousins, they will reject your application. If you somehow manage to get married anyway, the marriage could be declared invalid or void under state law.
It is important to be honest during the marriage license process. Lying or hiding your relationship may lead to legal consequences.
In Minnesota, first cousin marriage is generally not allowed, unless under rare exceptions related to age and cultural customs. Marrying a second or more distant cousin is legal. While some states in the U.S. do allow cousin marriage, Minnesota law is clear about its restrictions.
If you’re thinking about marrying a cousin and live in Minnesota, it’s best to understand the legal risks and, if needed, speak to a lawyer who can guide you based on your unique situation.
