Legal Age to Marry in Singapore: 18 Years
- Current Law: In Singapore, the legal age to marry is 18 years old for both men and women. This has been the law since 1988.
- Reasons for 18 Years: The rationale behind setting the legal age of marriage at 18 is to ensure that individuals are sufficiently mature and responsible to enter into a marriage contract. At 18, individuals are considered to have reached the age of majority and are legally capable of making important decisions, including decisions about marriage.
- Exceptions: However, there are exceptions to the general rule of 18 years as the legal age to marry. Under the Women’s Charter, minors between the ages of 16 and 17 can apply to the court for permission to marry if they have parental consent. Such applications are typically granted if the court is satisfied that the minor is mature enough to enter into a marriage and that the marriage is in the best interests of the minor.
Considerations for Lowering the Legal Age to Marry
There have been some calls to lower the legal age to marry in Singapore from 18 to 16 years old. Proponents of this change argue that:
- Maturity and Responsibility: Some individuals may reach maturity and responsibility at an earlier age than 18. Allowing them to marry at 16 would give them the opportunity to start a family and build a stable future.
- Cultural Considerations: In some cultures, it is customary for individuals to marry at a younger age. Lowering the legal age to marry would allow individuals from these cultures to follow their traditions without having to wait until they are 18.
- Parental Consent: Under the current law, minors between the ages of 16 and 17 can still apply to the court for permission to marry with parental consent. Lowering the legal age to marry would eliminate the need for this additional step, making it easier for young couples to get married.
Considerations for Maintaining the Legal Age to Marry
On the other hand, there are also strong arguments for maintaining the legal age to marry at 18 years old. Opponents of lowering the legal age to marry argue that:
- Lack of Maturity: Individuals under the age of 18 may not have the maturity and life experience necessary to make a fully informed decision about marriage. They may be more vulnerable to coercion or exploitation by older partners.
- Educational and Career Opportunities: Marrying at a young age can limit educational and career opportunities for both partners. They may have to put their studies or careers on hold to start a family, which can have a long-term impact on their earning potential.
- Increased Risk of Divorce: Studies have shown that marriages entered into by individuals under the age of 18 are more likely to end in divorce. This is because younger couples are more likely to face financial difficulties, communication problems, and other challenges that can lead to marital breakdown.
Conclusion
The legal age to marry in Singapore is a complex issue with both pros and cons. There are valid arguments on both sides of the debate, and ultimately the decision of whether or not to lower the legal age to marry is a matter of public policy. However, it is important to carefully consider all of the factors involved before making any changes to the current law.
Tips for Young Couples Considering Marriage
If you are a young couple considering marriage, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Be Realistic: Don’t let your emotions cloud your judgment. Make sure you are both mature enough to handle the responsibilities of marriage.
- Communicate Openly: Talk to each other about your expectations, values, and goals. Make sure you are on the same page about what you want out of marriage.
- Consider Your Finances: Marriage can be expensive. Make sure you have a realistic budget and are prepared for the financial challenges that come with starting a family.
- Get Support: Talk to your parents, friends, or a trusted mentor about your decision to get married. They can provide valuable advice and support.
- Don’t Rush: Marriage is a big decision. Don’t feel pressured to get married just because your friends are doing it or because you think you should be married by a certain age.
- Remember that Marriage is a Journey: Marriage is not always easy. There will be ups and downs along the way. But if you are both committed to each other, you can overcome any challenges and build a strong and lasting relationship.
