(Spoiler alert: It’s faster than waiting for the Northern Lights, but not quite instant!)
So, you’re thinking about saying “I do” in Iceland—the land of black sand beaches, dramatic waterfalls, and landscapes so surreal they look like they belong in a fantasy movie. Amazing choice! But amidst all the excitement of planning your glacier-top vows or cliffside elopement, you’re probably wondering:
How long does it actually take to get a marriage certificate in Iceland?
The short answer? About 2 to 3 weeks. The long answer? Well, grab a cup of coffee (or maybe a shot of Brennivín), and let’s dive into everything you need to know.
Step 1: Submitting Your Marriage Documents (And Why Timing Matters!)
First things first—before you even step foot on Icelandic soil, there’s paperwork to take care of.
How far in advance should you submit your documents?
✔ Deadline: At least 3 weeks before your wedding.
✔ Best practice: To avoid stress, send everything 5-6 weeks in advance—especially if you’re planning a remote or adventurous wedding (hello, glacier ceremonies!).
Where do you send them?
All marriage documents go to Registers Iceland (Þjóðskrá Íslands)—the official national registry. Their website is skra.is, where you’ll find all the latest updates and contact info.
What documents do you need?
Prepare the following:
✅ Passports (valid and preferably not covered in coffee stains).
✅ Certificate of Marital Status (to prove you’re legally single).
✅ Birth Certificates.
✅ Divorce Decree (if applicable).
✅ Death Certificate of a previous spouse (if applicable).
✅ Names and birthdates of two witnesses.
📌 Pro Tip: If your documents are not in English or a Nordic language, you’ll need a certified translation.
Step 2: Getting Married in Iceland – The Best Part!
Once your paperwork is in order, it’s time for the main event: your Icelandic wedding!
Best Wedding Locations in Iceland 🌿💍
📍 Seljalandsfoss Waterfall – Get married behind a waterfall! Visit South Iceland
📍 Black Sand Beach in Vik – Dramatic, moody, unforgettable. Guide to Iceland
📍 Thingvellir National Park – A UNESCO site where two continents meet! Inspired by Iceland
📍 Blue Ice Cave Elopement – Yep, you can literally get married inside a glacier.
After the ceremony, your officiant (whether a civil official, priest, or Viking reenactor—yes, that’s an option!) will file your marriage documents with Registers Iceland.
Step 3: How Long Does It Take to Get the Marriage Certificate?
⏳ Processing time: About 2-3 weeks after your wedding.
📧 How do you receive it? Usually via email, but you can request a printed version if needed.
🌍 Need an apostille? If your country requires it, you may need to get the certificate legalized in Iceland.
The Waiting Game: What to Do While You Wait?
While your marriage certificate is being processed, why not make the most of your Icelandic honeymoon? Here are some ideas:
💙 Soak in the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon – Nothing says honeymoon like a geothermal spa.
💙 Chase the Northern Lights – Nature’s best wedding fireworks.
💙 Snorkel Between Continents at Silfra – The ultimate metaphor for two worlds coming together.
💙 Explore a Volcano or an Ice Cave – Because why not?
People Also Ask: FAQ Section
❓ Can foreigners legally marry in Iceland?
✔ Yes! Iceland allows foreigners to marry with minimal bureaucracy.
❓ How fast can I get a marriage certificate in Iceland?
✔ Typically 2-3 weeks.
❓ Do I need a visa to get married in Iceland?
✔ Not necessarily, but check your country’s entry requirements.
❓ Can I elope in Iceland without witnesses?
✔ Nope, you’ll need two witnesses, but don’t worry—your photographer or guide can often help with that!
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Wait?
Absolutely! Iceland isn’t just a place to get married—it’s an experience. The landscapes, the adventure, and the incredible photos will make the short wait for your marriage certificate totally worth it.
And speaking of incredible photos… 📷
Let’s Make Your Iceland Wedding Unforgettable!
If you’re planning to get married in Iceland, you need a photographer who knows how to capture the raw, windswept magic of this stunning country. That’s where I come in! 💙
📸 Check out my portfolio: Your Happy Moments Blog
💍 Explore wedding photography packages: Investment
📩 Let’s chat about your dream Icelandic wedding! Contact Me
Your love story deserves to be captured in the most breathtaking way—let’s make it happen! 🚀
