So, You Want to Get Married in Iceland?
Great choice! Iceland isn’t just a country—it’s a cinematic dreamscape. Imagine exchanging vows in front of a cascading waterfall, on a black sand beach, or under the shimmering northern lights. If you’re the kind of couple that dreams big, Iceland is your perfect wedding backdrop.
But before you get too excited about that volcano-side elopement, let’s talk logistics. How do you actually get legally married in Iceland as a foreigner? Good news: It’s totally possible. Less-good news: It involves paperwork (but don’t worry, I’ve got you covered).
Let’s break it down, step by step.
Step 1: Are You Legally Allowed to Marry in Iceland?
Before we get into the details, let’s do a quick reality check:
✔ You both need to be at least 18 years old.
✔ Neither of you can already be married. (Iceland doesn’t do polygamy, sorry.)
✔ If you’ve been married before, you need proof of divorce or a death certificate.
That’s it. Iceland is pretty chill about who can get married here—whether you’re from Europe, the U.S., Australia, or beyond, the process is the same. Bonus? Same-sex marriage has been legal in Iceland since 2010. ❤️🏳️🌈
Step 2: Gather the Necessary Paperwork
Okay, I won’t lie—this is the least exciting part. But if you want that dream wedding by Seljalandsfoss, you gotta do the paperwork.
Here’s what you need:
📄 Marriage Notification (Hjónavígsluskýrsla) – The official form. You can download it here.
📄 Birth Certificates – Must be officially issued and translated into English (if necessary).
📄 Certificate of Marital Status – This proves you’re legally single.
📄 Divorce or Death Certificates (if applicable) – If you were previously married, Iceland needs proof that you’re free to marry again.
📄 Valid Passports – Copies of both your passports.
📄 Witness Information – Iceland requires two witnesses for your ceremony. No friends coming along? No problem—your photographer (hi! 👋) or guide can be your witness.
📌 Important: All documents must be submitted at least three weeks before your wedding date to the District Commissioner (Sýslumaður). Earlier is better—bureaucracy in Iceland moves at glacier speed.
Step 3: Choose Your Wedding Type
Now, let’s talk about the fun part—where and how you’ll get married. Iceland has options for everyone:
🏛 Civil Ceremony: The simplest way to get married legally is at the District Commissioner’s Office (Sýslumaður) in Reykjavík.
⛪ Church Ceremony: If you prefer a traditional setting, you can tie the knot at Hallgrímskirkja in Reykjavík or the charming Víkurkirkja in Vík.
🌿 Outdoor Wedding: This is where Iceland shines. You can legally marry anywhere—on a glacier, beside a volcano, or next to a geyser. Popular spots include:
- Vik – Black sand beaches and sea stacks straight out of a fantasy movie.
- Seljalandsfoss – A waterfall you can literally walk behind.
- Skaftafell – Glacier-covered mountains that look like another planet.
- Siglufjörður – A charming fjord town with insane views.
📌 Life Hack for Adventurous Couples: Want to skip the paperwork hassle? Have your legal wedding at home and then enjoy a symbolic ceremony in Iceland—no documents needed!
Step 4: The Big Day!
Once all the paperwork is sorted, your officiant will lead the ceremony, your witnesses will sign the papers, and—boom!—you’re officially married in Iceland. Your marriage certificate will be issued in Icelandic, but don’t worry, it’s recognized worldwide.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re planning to change your last name, check the rules in your home country before leaving Iceland.
Step 5: Registering Your Marriage Back Home
Most countries recognize Icelandic marriages, but some require extra steps. If needed, take your marriage certificate to your country’s embassy in Iceland or get an Apostille stamp for authentication.
FAQ: All Your Burning Questions Answered
1. Can foreigners legally marry in Iceland?
Absolutely! Iceland welcomes couples from all over the world.
2. How long does the paperwork take?
Submit your documents at least three weeks before your wedding. But earlier is always better.
3. Do we need witnesses?
Yes, you need two witnesses. If you’re eloping, your photographer or tour guide can do the honors.
4. What’s the best time of year to get married in Iceland?
☀️ Summer (June–August): Best weather, green landscapes, midnight sun.
❄️ Winter (September–March): Northern lights, fewer tourists, dramatic snowy backdrops.
5. Can we elope instead of having a big wedding?
Of course! Many couples come to Iceland just for a romantic, intimate elopement.
Why You Need a Photographer Who Gets Iceland
You’re marrying in one of the most breathtaking countries on earth—you need photos that do it justice. I specialize in capturing intimate, cinematic wedding moments against Iceland’s jaw-dropping landscapes. Whether you’re eloping under the northern lights or saying “I do” on a glacier, I’ll be there to capture every epic second.
✨ See my Iceland wedding galleries: Your Happy Moments Blog
📸 Explore my photography packages: Investment Page
📩 Let’s start planning your adventure! Contact Me
Let’s make your Iceland wedding unforgettable—without the stress, but with all the magic. Ready? Let’s do this! 🚀
