Imagine this: You’re standing on a dramatic cliff, fjords stretching endlessly behind you, the wind tousling your hair as you say “I do” under the Midnight Sun. Sounds like a scene from a movie, right? Well, guess what? You can have your dream wedding in Norway—even if you don’t live there.
Yes, Norway allows foreigners to marry without residency, but (of course) there’s a bit of paperwork involved. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with this step-by-step guide to saying “Ja!” in one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations.
Step 1: Gather Your Paperwork (Yes, There’s Paperwork)
Before you can exchange vows in a Norwegian wonderland, the government wants to make sure you’re free to marry. Here’s what you need:
✔ Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage – This is an official document proving you’re not already hitched. You get it from your home country, and it must be translated into English or Norwegian (unless it’s already in one of those languages).
✔ Personal Declarations – Each of you needs to sign a form confirming you’re free to marry. (Think of it as your official “Yes, I’m available” statement.)
✔ Statements from Witnesses – Two people need to vouch for you, confirming you’re legally allowed to marry.
✔ Valid Passports – Obviously, you need to prove who you are. No surprises here.
✔ Proof of Legal Stay in Norway – If you’re getting married while visiting Norway, you may need to show a valid visa or proof that you’re in the country legally.
📌 Bonus Tip: If either of you has been married before, you’ll also need divorce papers or a death certificate (if widowed). These must be translated and notarized.
All documents should be sent to the Norwegian Tax Administration (Skatteetaten) for approval. Processing takes about 4-6 weeks, so plan ahead!
👉 Official Norwegian Tax Administration Marriage Page
Step 2: Choose Your Dream Wedding Location
Now for the fun part—where should you get married in Norway?
🌲 For Nature Lovers:
- Lofoten Islands – Think white sandy beaches, dramatic mountains, and fishing cabins that look straight out of a postcard.
- Trolltunga – If you’re up for a challenge, imagine saying your vows on a rock jutting 700m above a fjord. Epic, right?
🏰 For Fairytale Romance:
- Akershus Fortress (Oslo) – A medieval castle overlooking the Oslo Fjord—because who doesn’t want to feel like royalty?
- Heddal Stave Church – Norway’s largest stave church, straight out of a Viking saga.
❄️ For a Winter Wonderland Wedding:
- Tromsø (Under the Northern Lights) – Exchange vows under the aurora borealis. Yes, it’s as magical as it sounds.
- Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel – An entire hotel made of ice, perfect for couples who want a truly unique wedding experience.
🔗 Need venue inspiration? Check out Norway’s Official Wedding Venues.
Step 3: The Ceremony – Who Can Marry You?
In Norway, you can legally marry through:
💒 The Church of Norway (for religious ceremonies)
🏛 A Civil Ceremony at the City Hall (most common for foreigners)
🌿 Outdoor Elopements – Some officiants allow weddings in nature (just check the legalities).
Pro Tip: Civil ceremonies are usually held at the local City Hall (Tinghus), and they’re free! Just make sure to book your date in advance because spots fill up quickly.
Step 4: Getting Your Marriage Certificate
Once you’re officially married, you’ll receive a Norwegian Marriage Certificate (Vigselattest). If you need to register your marriage in your home country, ask for an apostille stamp to make it internationally valid.
FAQ – Your Questions Answered!
❓ Can tourists get married in Norway?
✅ Yes! You don’t need to be a resident—you just need the right paperwork.
❓ Do we need witnesses?
✅ Yes, you need two witnesses over 18 years old (bring friends, or ask the venue to provide witnesses).
❓ How far in advance should we plan?
✅ At least 2-3 months before your wedding date to handle paperwork and bookings.
Let’s Capture Your Norwegian Love Story! 📸
Your wedding in Norway is going to be magical—and you deserve photos that capture every breathtaking moment. Whether you’re saying “I do” under the Northern Lights, on a mountain peak, or by a roaring waterfall, I’d love to help document your adventure.
Check out my portfolio 👉 Your Happy Moments Photography
Explore photo packages 👉 Investment Page
Let’s plan your dream wedding shoot! Contact me here 👉 Get in Touch
Final Thoughts
Getting married in Norway as a foreigner is 100% doable, and it’s absolutely worth it. Yes, there’s paperwork, but once you’re standing against a backdrop of fjords, glaciers, and endless skies, you’ll realize—it was all worth it.
Ready to make it happen? Start your paperwork, choose your dream location, and I’ll be there to capture your happiest moments! 🎉
