Recognising Intimate Relationships: Civil Union Act and the Marriage Act
07 August 2025
Within the South African context,
our legal framework for recognising intimate relationships is unique. Our
legislative framework offers various legislative... pathways for couples to
formalise their unions. The two most prominent Acts are the Marriage Act, 1961
(Act 25 of 1961) and the Civil Union Act, 2006 (Act 17 of 2006). Both Acts,
while governing the solemnisation and registration of partnerships, differ in
various aspects, including scope, eligibility, formalities, and social context.
If you find yourself in a position where you want to solemnise your
relationship, it is important to know these differences and to know which Act
is most applicable to you and your relationship.