So, you’ve fallen in love, and now you’re dreaming of saying “I do” in the land of fika, ABBA, and breathtaking Nordic landscapes? Sweden is a stunning place to tie the knot, whether you’re envisioning a chic city hall wedding in Stockholm, a romantic lakeside ceremony, or even a winter wonderland wedding in an ice hotel. But before you start picking out floral arrangements, let’s talk about the legal side—because even love needs paperwork.
Can Foreigners Get Married in Sweden?
The short answer? Yes! Sweden is one of the easiest countries in Europe for international couples to get married. Whether you’re a tourist, a non-resident, or part of an international couple, Sweden welcomes you with open arms (and a few bureaucratic hoops to jump through).
Unlike some countries, Sweden doesn’t require you to be a resident or have a Swedish visa to get married. However, you do need to meet some basic requirements and submit the right documents before you can walk down the aisle.
The Swedish Marriage Starter Kit: What You’ll Need
Getting legally married in Sweden isn’t as complicated as assembling an IKEA wardrobe, but it does require attention to detail. Here’s what you need:
✅ 1. Be at least 18 years old
Sweden doesn’t do child marriages—both partners must be at least 18, no exceptions.
✅ 2. Provide valid identification
A valid passport or national ID card (for EU citizens) will do the trick.
✅ 3. Fill out the marriage application (hindersprövning)
This is the official “checklist” to ensure there are no legal obstacles to your marriage. You can get the form from the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket) here.
✅ 4. Proof of marital status
If you’ve been married before, you’ll need official proof that you’re divorced or widowed. Some countries require additional documents like a Certificate of No Impediment (CNI), so check with your embassy.
✅ 5. Submit your application and wait
Once you send your application to the Swedish Tax Agency, processing takes about 2-6 weeks. If approved, you’ll receive a marriage license valid for 4 months.
Where to Get Married in Sweden
Now that you’ve handled the legalities, let’s talk about where you can get married. Sweden offers some truly spectacular venues, from historical sites to nature escapes.
🏛️ City Hall Weddings (Fast & Simple)
For those who want a quick and legally recognized wedding, a civil ceremony at a Swedish City Hall (Rådhus) is the way to go. Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö all have beautiful city halls where you can get married in a simple yet elegant setting.
🏰 Romantic Castles & Historical Venues
- Gripsholm Castle (Mariefred) – A fairytale wedding in a 16th-century castle? Yes, please!
- Tjolöholm Castle (Gothenburg) – Think Downton Abbey but Swedish.
- Vadstena Abbey (Östergötland) – For a wedding with medieval charm.
🌲 Nature & Outdoor Weddings
Sweden’s breathtaking landscapes make for unforgettable outdoor weddings. Some unique spots include:
- Lapland’s Ice Hotel – A winter wedding in a real ice chapel.
- Gotland’s beaches – Imagine a sunset ceremony with waves crashing nearby.
- Abisko National Park – Northern Lights as your backdrop? Epic.
Wedding Traditions in Sweden
Want to add a little Swedish charm to your big day? Here are a few traditions you might love:
💍 Three Wedding Rings – Instead of just one engagement ring, Swedish couples often exchange three: one for engagement, one for marriage, and one for eternal love.
💃 The First Kiss Rule – If the groom leaves the room during the reception, male guests can kiss the bride (and vice versa). A fun tradition, but keep an eye on those flirty guests!
🍰 Princess Cake – A traditional Swedish wedding cake is a green marzipan-covered sponge cake with layers of cream and jam.
FAQ: Common Questions About Getting Married in Sweden
Q: Can we get married in Sweden if we’re just visiting?
A: Yes! You don’t need to be a resident, but you do need to handle the paperwork in advance.
Q: Do we need witnesses?
A: Yes, you need two witnesses present at the ceremony.
Q: Can same-sex couples get married in Sweden?
A: Absolutely! Sweden has been recognizing same-sex marriage since 2009.
Q: How long does it take to get a marriage license?
A: It can take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks, so plan accordingly.
Final Thoughts: Make It a Wedding to Remember
Getting married in Sweden is more than just a legal process—it’s an experience. Whether you’re dreaming of a simple city hall wedding, a grand castle ceremony, or a magical Northern Lights backdrop, Sweden has something special for every couple.
And once your Swedish love story is set, you’ll need someone to capture every breathtaking moment. That’s where I come in! As a destination wedding photographer, I specialize in capturing timeless, joy-filled memories. Check out my portfolio, explore my wedding photography packages, and let’s make your Swedish wedding unforgettable. You can also contact me here—I’d love to be part of your adventure!
Ready to start planning your dream wedding in Sweden? Let’s make it happen! 💍🇸🇪
