Living in China

Marriage in China

The Consular Section can provide American citizens with information on the marriage registration process in China. American citizens resident in China may file a petition to establish the basis for their Chinese spouses and relatives to immigrate to the United States. Information about petition procedures may be obtained by calling the ACS Unit.
Please see http://travel.state.gov/family/family_issues/marriage/marriage_589.html for more information

Getting Married in China

Marriages in China are registered according to the laws of China, regardless of the nationality of the persons being married. American diplomatic and consular officers do not have the authority to perform marriages and are not required to witness the marriages of American citizens.

Can foreigners get married in China?
In order to marry, at least one member of the couple must reside in China. Two foreigners on tourist visas are unlikely to be able to register to marry.

Are there any restrictions on who I can marry?
The eligibility age is generally 22 for men and 20 for women. Certain categories of Chinese citizens, such as diplomats, security officials, and others whose work is considered to be crucial to the state, are not legally free to marry foreigners. Chinese students generally are permitted to marry if all the requirements are met, but they can expect to be expelled from school as soon as they do. American citizens wishing to marry Chinese students should bear this in mind. It also should be noted that at least one school has required Chinese students to reimburse the school for uncharged tuition and other expenses upon withdrawal for the purpose of marriage to a foreigner.

Where do I register my marriage?
In Shanghai, all inquiries should be directed to the Marriage Registration Office at: Shanghai Everbright Convention and Exhibition Center, 3rd Floor, Room E; #82 Cao Bao Lu (Tel: +8621 6432-5087 ; Email: shhy@shmzj.gov.cn).  In other cities, please contact the local civil affairs office (Min Zheng Ju).

What documents do I need?
Upon receipt of an application to register a marriage, the civil affairs office must ascertain that both parties are eligible to marry.  The American partner to a marriage in China will generally be asked to submit a current passport, Chinese residence permit, Marriageability Affidavit and a certified translation of the Marriageability Affidavit.  The Chinese partner must submit their Family Registration Book (Hu Kou Bu) or residence permit, and Chinese National ID card (Shen Fen Zheng).

How do I get the Certificate of Marriageability?
The U.S. Consulate has the authority to issue Marriageability Affidavit for Americans who wish to marry in China.  To apply for a Marriageability Affidavit, you are required to apply in person at the U.S. Consulate.  You must bring your U.S. passport.

How do I get a visa for my future spouse?
Please see the General Information On Applications For Permanent Residence.

Marriageability Affidavit Fee:

$30 or RMB equivalent