Civil Union & Reaffirmation Requirements

Requirements For Entering Into a Civil Union

For two people to establish a civil union in New Jersey, they must satisfy all of the following requirements:

  • Not be a party to another civil union, domestic partnership, or marriage in this state or that is recognized by this state
  • Be of the same sex
  • Be at least 18 years of age

Age Restrictions

Applicants less than 18 years old may enter into a civil union with parental consent. Applicants less than 16 years old must obtain parental consent and have the consent approved in writing by any judge of the Superior Court, Chancery Division, Family Part.

Domestic Partnerships

Same sex couples who meet the above requirements and are registered as domestic partners may enter into a civil union with the same person without terminating their domestic partnership first. If the domestic partnership was registered in New Jersey, it automatically terminates when the civil union is registered. If the domestic partnership was registered in another state, that state's laws determine the impact on the domestic partnership.

Requirements For Entering Into A Reaffirmation

A couple that has previously entered into a civil union or a same-sex marriage shall apply for a Reaffirmation of Civil Union License. For two people to establish a reaffirmation of civil union in New Jersey, they must be able to provide proof in the form of a certified copy that they are currently registered in a civil union in this state or a civil union / same-sex marriage in another state and meet the requirements of the New Jersey Civil Union Act:

  • The Reaffirmation of Civil Union License requires that the reaffirmation be between the same two partners who entered into the original civil union/same-sex marriage.
  • Both applicants must be at least 18 years old.

Age Restrictions

Applicants less than 18 years old may enter into a civil union with parental consent. Applicants less than 16 years old must obtain parental consent and have the consent approved in writing by any judge of the Superior Court, Chancery Division, Family Part. If the civil union partners entered into their original civil union in New Jersey, they need not re-obtain parental or judicial consent.

 Application for Marriage, Remarriage, Civil Union, or Reaffirmation of Civil Union License (PDF)