Age of Consent for Gay Sex (and others)

U.S. Residents

Jump to the lower part of the graph for your own state laws unless you are traveling to other destinations (out of state). If you are traveling to another nation, you must (obviously) abide by the laws of that nation, but you must also meet the U.S. requirement that says that a U.S. adult may not have sex with anyone under the age of 16 when traveling abroad. You must abide by the most conservative laws--either of the U.S. or your host country.

U.S. military service people must abide by the Department of Defense guidelines that appy to you at the time of your sexual activity.

Travelers

Find your destnation country, but read the introduction first.

Introduction

Observe the traditons and, more importantly, the laws of your country, state/province and those which you are visiting. For example, if you are an American in Spain (with a surprisingly low age of consent) and have sex with a person who is of legal age in Spain, you may be prosecuted once you return to the U.S. for having engaged in sexual tourism.

If you are anticipating such activity, it is advisable to consult an attorney before your departure. The rule of thumb is to stick to partners around your own age, as long as (uncompensated) sexual activity between consenting adults of the same sex are legal within that jurisdiction. Also remember that prostition is illegal in almost all juristictions (with very rare exceptions anywhere on the planet).

If you choose to visit a country in which same sex activity is illegal, remember that it is illegal even if the sex activity is with someone who is considered your partner in your home country, regardless of the ages of the people involved. Often the penalties for violation are quite severe including very long prison terms or even death. The severity of the punishment in various countries is often influenced by members of the so-called "Christian" Right in the U.S. which continues to encourage the death penalty for homosexual activity, especially in Uganda and other African nations. Travel with care.

A Personal Request

If you travel to a nation which outlaws homosexual activity, please find a human rights organization that advocates for equal rights for homosexuals. Donate at least as much money to that organization as you spend in the repressive larger society.  Such a nation undoubtedly thrives because of money coming in from foreigners, including donations from conservative U.S. churches plus whatever you spend in the general economy.  That money needs to be counter-balanced by institutions that have at heart the interests of our brothers and sisters.

Remember that places where sexual activity is least restricted and most restricted are the exact places where sexually transmitted deseases are most common.  If you are going to play, play carefully!  Most European partners (especially in the West where sexual health education has persisted for years) will insist upon that, but if they don't, that's a signal to be especially wary.  Always be ready to provide protection for both you and your partner(s).

Table of Age of Consent