Hong Kong Ordinances

MARRIAGE REFORM ORDINANCE - SECT 7

Customary marriage

PART III

CUSTOMARY AND MODERN MARRIAGES

(1) For the purposes of this Ordinance, a marriage shall constitute a
customary marriage if it was or is celebrated in Hong Kong before the
appointed day in accordance with Chinese law and custom.

(2) A marriage shall be deemed to accord with Chinese law and  custom if it
was celebrated or is celebrated before the appointed day in Hong Kong in
accordance with the traditional Chinese customs accepted at the time of the
marriage as appropriate for the celebration of marriage either-

   (a)  in the part of Hong Kong where the marriage took place; or

   (b)  in the place recognized by the family of either party to the marriage
        as their family place of origin.

(3) A customary marriage of persons who are subject to Chinese law  and custom
is hereby declared to be a valid marriage.