Family
Civil solidarity contracts since 2020, but no same-sex marriage
Since June 2020 Monaco recognises civil solidarity contracts (contrats de vie commune) for couples regardless of sex, and cohabitation contracts for family members living together, both by notarial deed. Same-sex marriage is not recognised, and these contracts do not affect civil status, filiation or inheritance rights.
Key rules
- Civil solidarity contracts (contrat de vie commune) are open to couples regardless of sex since 2020.
- These contracts are executed by notarial deed and registered, and are ended by a declaration before a notary.
- Same-sex marriage is not recognised; the contracts do not change civil status, filiation or inheritance.
- Divorce and parental responsibility follow the Civil Code in the French tradition.
Governing law
- Law of 2020 on civil solidarity contracts (2020)Contrat de vie commune and cohabitation contract
- Civil Code, family provisionsFrench civil-law tradition
In practice
The 2020 contracts give couples a legal framework for their shared life without equating to marriage, so partners should plan expressly for inheritance, which the contract does not confer. Notarial involvement is required to create and to end them.