In a significant move for LGBTQ rights, Taiwan has announced it will now legally recognize same-sex marriages between Taiwanese and Chinese nationals. This marks the first time cross-strait same-sex unions have been recognized, further solidifying Taiwan’s leadership in the fight for marriage equality in Asia.
Taiwan, which became the first jurisdiction in the region to legalize same-sex marriage in 2019, has continued to be a beacon for LGBTQ rights. However, until now, the legal recognition of marriages between Taiwanese citizens and their Chinese partners had been a contentious issue, largely due to ongoing political tensions with China. Beijing claims Taiwan as part of its territory and frequently conducts military operations near the self-governed island.
While Taiwan had already recognized heterosexual marriages between Taiwanese and Chinese citizens, the process for these couples was more complex than that for international couples. Heterosexual cross-strait couples have long been required to marry abroad, then undergo an interview process in Taiwan before officially registering their marriage.
As of Thursday, this procedure will also apply to same-sex couples, according to Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council (MAC). Spokesman Liang Wen-chieh confirmed the change during a regular press briefing, stating, “Same-sex couples can now be subject to the same regulations as heterosexual couples.”
Under the new policy, same-sex couples must first marry in one of the 35 countries that recognize marriage equality. They are then required to present their marriage certificate and undergo an interview with Taiwanese authorities. Once they pass the interview, which takes place at Taiwan’s ports of entry, they may officially register their marriage in Taiwan.
Liang emphasized that the regulations are designed to protect national security and prevent fraudulent marriages, which have been a concern in cross-border unions. “The rules for heterosexual cross-strait marriages have been in place for some time to prevent fake marriages and protect social order,” he said.
Thursday’s announcement reinforces Taiwan’s commitment to equal treatment under the law for both same-sex and heterosexual marriages. “The government upholds the principle of treating same-sex marriage and heterosexual marriage equally,” Liang added.
Taiwan is home to approximately 360,000 Chinese spouses of Taiwanese citizens. Chinese nationals face a longer path to citizenship, having to wait six years—double the time required for spouses from other countries.
Separated from mainland China by the Taiwan Strait, a narrow 180-kilometer waterway, Taiwan maintains its own government, military, and currency. Beijing, however, continues to assert its claim over Taiwan and has not ruled out the use of force to bring the democratic island under its control.
This landmark decision in Taiwan’s ongoing pursuit of marriage equality represents another step forward for LGBTQ rights in the region. By recognizing same-sex marriages between Taiwanese and Chinese nationals, Taiwan further distinguishes itself as a progressive leader in Asia, even amid its complex relationship with China.