Same-sex union legislation legislation of unregistered cohabitation was introduced in the Netherlands in June 1979. However, the first substantial recognition of same-sex couples didn't occur before the introduction of a new legal form, that of registered partnerships, which was first enacted in Denmark in June 1989. Many countries have followed with similar legislation since then. Legislation of these forms of legal unions still occur with a variety of different names, even after the introduction of same sex marriage, although sometimes they are overwritten by subsequent legislation of same-sex marriage. There are currently seventeen countries that have an alternative form of legal recognition other
Recognition of same-sex unions in Asia Recognition of same-sex unions in Asia Debate has occurred throughout Asia over proposals to legalize same-sex marriage as well as civil unions. Following a Constitutional Court ruling, Taiwan could become the first nation in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage by 24 May 2019. In addition, Israel and Armenia recognise same-sex marriages validly performed abroad. Israel recognises unregistered cohabitation for same-sex couples. Several cities in Japan, Taiwan and Cambodia provide same-sex couples with some limited rights and benefits, including hospital visitation rights. In Hong Kong, the same-sex partners of residents can receive spousal visas. China: On 5 January 2016, a court