In the United States, a proxy marriage is recognized by every state if it took place in a state where proxy marriages are legal and are recognized by all branches of the military. Five states in the U.S. presently allow proxy marriages to be legally performed, Kansas, California, Colorado, Texas, and Montana.

California, Colorado, and Texas require that one of parties must appear before the civil authorities.  Montana is the only state that allows a double proxy marriage where neither party has to appear before the civil authorities.

If you are a non-U.S. citizen a legal proxy marriage is accepted by the U.S. immigration law if it is subsequently consummated. A party of an unconsummated proxy marriage may enjoy immigration benefit as a fiancé if the opposite party is a U.S. citizen, such as applying for a K-1 fiancé Visa.

All of these states have limited the process to persons actively serving in the Military. California is limited to members of the Armed Forces who are deployed to a war zone.

Since states can change their proxy marriage laws, it is important for you to check with your local marriage bureau and clarify the present status of the laws, rules and regulations with regard to proxy marriages.