Age Limit for Marriage in Germany
In Germany, the legal landscape for marriage has undergone significant changes, particularly with regards to the age at which individuals can marry and the exceptions that may be granted.
As of July 21, 2017, the age of consent for marriage in Germany is 16, but only with parental consent and the approval of a family court. This change came about due to the revision of Section 1303 of the Civil Code, as part of the "Law to Combat Child Marriages".
However, it's important to note that the age of majority in Germany, as specified in the provided text, is not mentioned.
Before 1974, the age of majority for men was 21, while women were eligible at 16. Since then, the age of majority has likely changed, but the exact details are not provided in the given information.
In cases where one partner is 16, the family court will hear the parents of the minor partner. The court will consider several factors before granting approval, including the maturity of both partners, the likelihood of the marriage lasting, and whether the marriage is in the best interest of the minor partner.
Large age differences, lack of economic ability, or different cultural backgrounds can be reasons for the family court to deny approval. If the parents refuse to give consent, the court will examine the reasons for the refusal. If they are invalid, the court may grant the marriage permit against the parents' will.
It's worth mentioning that a marriage between two minors is only possible in exceptional cases and requires special examination to obtain approval.
From the age of 18, individuals in Germany can marry without the need for parental consent. If one of the partners is 16 or older and the other is at least of legal age (i.e., 18), an application can be made to the family court for an exemption.
However, since the 2017 law change, the family court in Germany can no longer grant exceptions for marriage under 18 years of age. Therefore, there is no age limit below 18 for an exception permit by a family court, as such exceptions have been abolished.
This means that, as of the current legal landscape, marriage with a person under 16 is not effectively contracted in Germany. The "Law to Combat Child Marriages" prohibits marriages before the age of majority in Germany.
