Imagine saying “I do” under the Northern Lights, in a charming wooden church surrounded by fjords, or even aboard a Viking ship. Sounds magical, right? Norway offers breathtaking landscapes, deep-rooted traditions, and a seamless process for international couples looking to tie the knot.
But can tourists get married in Norway? The short answer: Yes! However, before you start practicing your vows in Norwegian, let’s walk through the legalities, dream-worthy venues, and some local wedding quirks you’ll absolutely love.
How to Get Married in Norway as a Foreigner: Legal Requirements & Paperwork
Planning a destination wedding always comes with a bit of paperwork (because love, apparently, needs government approval), but Norway keeps things relatively simple. Here’s what you need to know:
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Before you can officially get hitched, both of you need to submit documents proving that you’re eligible to marry. These include:
✅ Passports (Make sure they’re valid—Norway won’t accept a love story interrupted by expired documents!)
✅ Birth certificates (Originals, and if not in English/Norwegian, you’ll need certified translations)
✅ Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (This proves you’re not already married—sorry, polygamy is a no-go)
✅ If previously married: Divorce decree or death certificate of a former spouse
Once you have everything, submit your documents to the Norwegian Tax Administration (Skatteetaten). Processing takes about 4-6 weeks, so don’t leave this until the last minute!
Step 2: The ‘Magic Letter’ – Prøvingsattest
Once your documents are approved, you’ll receive a Prøvingsattest (Certificate of No Impediment) – the golden ticket to your Norwegian wedding! It’s valid for 4 months, so make sure to plan accordingly.
💡 Pro tip: Have an extra copy of this certificate. You never know when the fjords might try to steal your paperwork.
Step 3: Choose Your Ceremony Type
Norway offers various ceremony options, depending on your style:
- Civil Ceremonies: Conducted by a judge or registrar, these can take place in city halls, scenic outdoor locations, or even cozy Nordic lodges.
- Religious Ceremonies: Whether you dream of a traditional Norwegian stave church wedding or a personalized spiritual ceremony, Norway welcomes diverse faiths.
- Humanist Weddings: If you prefer a secular, yet deeply personal ceremony, Norway allows humanist celebrants to officiate weddings.
For civil ceremonies, check the official website of your chosen municipality (Norway’s official portal).
Best Places to Get Married in Norway
Now for the fun part—choosing the perfect backdrop for your love story!
🏔️ Fjordside Fairytale: Aurland & Geirangerfjord
The Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers dramatic cliffs and waterfalls cascading into crystal-clear waters. The Aurland Fjord Hotel provides a stunning setting with panoramic views (Visit Aurland).
❄️ Winter Wonderland: Tromsø & Lofoten Islands
Dreaming of a Northern Lights wedding? Tromsø is one of the best places in the world to see them, making it a magical winter wedding destination. If you prefer rugged coastlines, the Lofoten Islands offer postcard-perfect Arctic beauty (Visit Lofoten).
🏰 Fairytale Vibes: Storfjord Hotel & Villa Malla
For a touch of elegance, consider Storfjord Hotel, a hidden gem in the Norwegian mountains, blending rustic charm with luxury (Storfjord Hotel). If a beachfront wedding is more your style, Villa Malla, just outside Oslo, offers Mediterranean-style vibes right in Norway (Villa Malla).
When to Get Married in Norway? Best Seasons & Weather Tips
☀️ Summer (June-August):
Midnight Sun weddings mean extended daylight, making this a perfect season for outdoor ceremonies. Expect mild temperatures (15-25°C / 59-77°F) and stunning green landscapes.
❄️ Winter (November-February):
Perfect for a snowy fairytale wedding or an Aurora Borealis backdrop. Just be prepared for cold temperatures (-5 to -15°C / 23 to 5°F).
🍂 Autumn (September-October):
Fewer crowds, golden foliage, and cozy vibes—ideal for an intimate wedding.
🌸 Spring (March-May):
Flowers bloom, waterfalls flow, and the landscapes start waking up from winter’s embrace.
💡 Pro tip: If you’re eloping, winter is best. If you want a big celebration, summer offers more daylight for long wedding festivities.
Hiring a Wedding Photographer in Norway
With landscapes straight out of a Viking saga, your Norwegian wedding photos should be nothing short of spectacular. Whether you want dramatic fjord cliffs, golden-hour mountain peaks, or cozy candlelit indoor shots, having an experienced destination wedding photographer is key.
💍 Let’s capture your love story! I specialize in Norwegian elopements and destination weddings, ensuring every magical moment is beautifully preserved. Check out my portfolio here or explore my photo packages here.
Final Thoughts: Should You Get Married in Norway?
Norway isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience. Whether you’re exchanging vows under the Midnight Sun or saying “Ja” in a cozy Nordic lodge, this country offers an unforgettable setting for your love story.
So, are you ready to make your dream wedding happen? If so, let’s start planning! I’d love to help you find the perfect location and capture the most incredible moments of your journey. Get in touch with me here, and let’s make magic happen!
