Denmark—the land of fairy tales, stunning landscapes, and some of the easiest marriage laws in Europe. If you and your partner want to tie the knot without excessive paperwork, long waiting times, or bureaucratic nightmares, then Denmark is your dream destination.
And the best part? It’s not just easy—it’s breathtakingly beautiful. Whether you want a romantic elopement on a remote island, a chic city wedding in Copenhagen, or even a castle ceremony that would make Cinderella jealous, Denmark has it all.
So grab a cup of coffee (or a Danish pastry—you deserve it), and let’s break down everything you need to know to plan your wedding in Denmark, step by step.
Why Choose Denmark for Your Wedding?
Imagine this: You arrive in Denmark with your loved one, spend a couple of days exploring cozy cafés, charming streets, and stunning nature, and then—bam! You’re legally married with minimal stress and maximum romance.
Denmark has gained a reputation as the Las Vegas of Europe, but with a lot more charm and zero Elvis impersonators (unless you bring your own). Many international couples choose Denmark because:
✅ Minimal bureaucracy – Denmark’s marriage laws are refreshingly straightforward.
✅ Fast approval – Most applications are processed within a week.
✅ Beautiful locations – From Copenhagen’s grand city hall to the romantic island of Ærø, the backdrop is always stunning.
✅ Recognized worldwide – A Danish marriage certificate is legally valid in most countries.
Sounds amazing? Let’s dive into the details.
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Before you pack your bags, let’s talk paperwork. Fortunately, Denmark keeps it simple. Here’s what you’ll need:
📌 Valid passports for both partners.
📌 Proof of marital status (single certificate, divorce decree, or death certificate if applicable).
📌 Visa (if required for entry to Denmark). Check the Danish Immigration Service for details.
📌 Completed Notice of Marriage Form – This can be submitted online via the Agency of Family Law.
💡 Pro tip: If your documents aren’t in English, Danish, or German, you’ll need an official translation.
Once you submit your paperwork, the approval process usually takes 5–10 days—one of the fastest in Europe!
Step 2: Pick Your Dream Wedding Location in Denmark
Now for the fun part—choosing where to say “I do”!
Denmark offers a variety of stunning wedding locations, from historic city halls to dramatic coastal cliffs. Here are some favorites:
🌆 Copenhagen City Hall – Classic & Elegant
Perfect if you love a grand, historical setting with stunning architecture. Plus, you’ll have instant access to some of the best wedding photo spots in the city.
📍 More info: Copenhagen City Hall
🏝 Ærø Island – Denmark’s “Island of Love”
If you’re looking for a cozy, fairytale elopement, this island is perfect. The charming little town of Ærøskøbing feels straight out of a romantic novel.
📍 More info: Ærø Weddings
🏰 Koldinghus Castle – Get Married Like Royalty
Yes, you can get married in a real castle in Denmark! Koldinghus is a spectacular choice for couples dreaming of a regal wedding.
📍 More info: Koldinghus Castle
🌊 Stevns Klint – Breathtaking Nature
Love cliffside views and the sound of waves as you say your vows? This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a dream for nature lovers.
📍 More info: Stevns Klint
Step 3: Submit Your Application & Book Your Ceremony
Once your paperwork is ready, here’s what happens next:
1️⃣ Submit your application to the Agency of Family Law online.
2️⃣ Wait for approval (usually within a week).
3️⃣ Receive your approval letter and book your ceremony at your chosen venue.
4️⃣ Plan your trip—most couples arrive 1–2 days before the wedding.
Step 4: The Big Day – Time to Say “Ja!”
Here’s what to expect on your wedding day:
👫 Arrival – Check in with your wedding venue and present your original documents.
🤵♀️👰 The Ceremony – Most civil ceremonies last only 10–15 minutes, but they’re just as meaningful!
🎉 Celebration Time – Whether it’s a fancy dinner or a casual beachside toast, make it memorable!
💡 Do you need witnesses? Yes! If you’re eloping, many venues can provide witnesses for you.
Step 5: After the Wedding – Making It Official Worldwide
🎖 Marriage Certificate – You’ll receive a multilingual Danish marriage certificate (Danish, English, German, French, and Spanish).
📜 Apostille Certification – If required by your home country, get an apostille stamp from the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
📍 More info: Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs
How Much Does a Wedding in Denmark Cost?
While costs depend on location and extras, here’s a rough estimate:
| Expense |
Estimated Cost (EUR) |
| Administrative Fee |
200-300€ |
| Wedding Photographer |
500-1500€ |
| Hotel (2 nights) |
150-500€ |
| Celebration Dinner |
50-200€ |
| Apostille Service |
50€ |
💡 Pro tip: Many photographers offer elopement packages that include everything from photos to planning assistance!
Bonus Tips for a Perfect Danish Wedding
✨ Timing Matters – Avoid peak summer (July–August) if you want fewer crowds and better availability.
✨ Plan a Mini Honeymoon – Extend your stay and explore Denmark’s cozy towns and scenic nature.
✨ Capture the Moment – A stunning wedding deserves stunning photos. A professional photographer is a must!
Why Trust Me? Let’s Make Your Wedding Unforgettable!
Planning a wedding—especially in another country—can feel overwhelming. But I’m here to make it stress-free and magical.
As a destination wedding photographer, I’ve captured love stories all over the world, and Denmark is one of the most beautiful places to say “I do.”
📸 Want breathtaking wedding photos? Check out my portfolio.
💍 Looking for the perfect wedding photography package? See my investment page.
📩 Have questions or need wedding photography advice? Get in touch!
Denmark is waiting for you. Let’s make your wedding unforgettable together! ❤️
