The Chinese government made it easier and more flexible for couples to marry by simplifying the registration process, hoping to boost marriage rates.
China has updated its marriage registration rules, reducing paperwork and providing couples with more flexibility in choosing where to register. The revised regulations—the first update since 2003—will take effect on May 10.
The new rules require couples on the Chinese mainland to present only their ID cards and a signed declaration confirming they are unmarried and not closely related by blood within three generations.
The updated policy also removes the restriction that limited marriage registration to a couple’s place of permanent residence. Now, they can register in locations more convenient to them.
The new policy aims to save time and reduce costs, especially for people who work and live far from their hometowns.
Only 6.1 million couples got married in 2024, down from 7.68 million in 2023, according to China’s Ministry of Civil Affairs.
Some believe the simpler process could reduce social pressure to marry. It might ease expectations like paying a bride price or owning a home. Others worry it could lead to impulsive marriages, bigamy, or fraud. Concerns also remain about domestic violence, especially in cases where the mandatory divorce “cooling-off” period could prolong harm.
Still, many agree that marriage should be both free and serious. As society evolves, policies must balance individual freedom with the importance of commitment. China’s reform of its marriage rules reflects this broader goal.
by Chen Wang, additional reporting by China Daily、CNS.
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