Do you have to register a marriage with a U.S. marriage license, if married abroad and one person is not a U.S. citizen?

Generally, the rule is that if a marriage is valid in the foreign jurisdiction, it will be recognized in Illinois. Illinois law reads as follows: (750 ILCS 5/201) (from Ch. 40, par. 201) Sec. 201. Formalities.) A marriage between a man and a woman licensed, solemnized and registered as provided in this Act is valid in this State. (Source: P.A. 80-923.) The problem is that there is a conflict between what someone told them and what you understand to be your duties under the circumstances. Who gave them this information, and what is the purpose of the second registration--if, indeed, they were "legally married in China"?

If you are authorized to perform a marriage in your county and state, then you should know that completion of a certificate of marriage is part of your duties. As for the license, that is a different story Check with your local clerk's office, but this is in effect a renewal of vows.