First Online Civil Marriage Recognized in Lebanon

Big news for civil rights in Lebanon: a judge just recognized the country’s first-ever online civil marriage.

On May 22, Judge Fatima Majed ruled in favor of registering a civil marriage conducted virtually via Utah state law in the U.S. This marks the first time a remote civil wedding has received official recognition in Lebanon.

Civil marriages in Lebanon are a tricky topic. The country doesn’t allow them to be performed locally. Couples usually fly abroad—most often to Cyprus—to tie the knot. But for many, the cost and passport delays make travel difficult or impossible.

That’s where this ruling changes things. According to Legal Agenda, Judge Majed based her decision on Article 25 of Decree 60 L/R, which allows Lebanon to recognize civil marriages conducted abroad. She interpreted it through the lens of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights—especially the right to marry, freedom of belief, and equality.

She also acknowledged the reality of modern tech: remote meetings are a valid, legal part of life today. So why not marriage?

Her ruling emphasized that access to civil marriage shouldn’t depend on money or travel. Online weddings make it possible for people to marry on their own terms—without boarding a plane.

This case began in 2021, when a few Lebanese couples, stuck in Lebanon due to economic collapse and passport delays, turned to Utah’s virtual marriage option. Legal Agenda estimates at least 70 couples have done this so far.

The ruling also touches on Lebanon’s electronic transactions law, confirming that digital signatures are legally valid—even without a separate decree.

It’s a major win for civil rights—and for anyone hoping to get married without jumping through hoops.

The recognition of an online civil marriage in Lebanon is a big deal. Check the #News section for more content like this.