What Is International Marriage?

An international marriage joins two people from different countries and cultural backgrounds.

An international marriage is an officially recognized marriage relationship in which the spouses were are from different countries. They must often face issues and make decisions that couples who are from the same country do not have to worry about.

Creating a Home

Couples of international marriages must define where home is-–in his country, in her country, or in another country altogether–-and strike the right balance in blending the traditions of both parties, especially regarding matters such as what the couple eats on a daily basis.

Cultural Expectations

No couple sees eye to eye on everything, but coming from two different cultures increases the chances of having different expectations and ways of doing things. Couples of international marriages must work harder than other couples to ensure that they understand why the other person does or thinks the way he or she does.

Language

Couples of international marriages must decide which language they will communicate in if they speak several languages, or else must cope with language barriers if the couple’s common language is not the most comfortable language for both parties. If they have children, they must choose what language or languages to speak at home and what languages the children should ultimately learn.

Legal Issues

As one or both of the people involved in an international marriage live outside their home country, the couple must invariably contend with legal and visa or immigration issues.

Citizenship

The children of international marriages may have dual citizenship, or even triple citizenship if the family resides where neither of the parents are citizens. Conversely, children of international marriages may be required to choose which citizenship they keep and which to reject.

References

• "International Marriages"; Transitions Abroad; Mary Natali