So, you’re in love, you’re ready to say “I do,” and you’ve heard Denmark is the easiest place in Europe to get married. Congratulations, you’ve done your research well!
Denmark is often called the Las Vegas of Europe, but let’s be real—it’s way more elegant. No Elvis impersonators (unless you want one), no drive-thru chapels (that we know of), just breathtaking landscapes, a hassle-free process, and a fairytale-like atmosphere.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about getting married in Denmark as a foreigner—without drowning in legal jargon. Because let’s face it, planning a wedding is stressful enough without deciphering bureaucracy.
Why Denmark? The Best Place for a Stress-Free Wedding
Denmark is one of the most popular destinations for international couples, and here’s why:
✔️ No residency requirements – You don’t have to live in Denmark to get married there.
✔️ Fast paperwork processing – You can get legally married in just a few weeks.
✔️ Simple documentation process – No unnecessary headaches.
✔️ Weddings recognized worldwide – Danish marriage certificates are accepted in most countries.
✔️ Romantic locations – Whether you want a cozy city hall wedding or a dreamy island ceremony, Denmark has it all.
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to actually do it.
Legal Requirements to Get Married in Denmark as a Foreigner
Who Can Get Married in Denmark?
Denmark welcomes all lovebirds, as long as:
✅ Both of you are at least 18 years old
✅ You are not closely related (Denmark is progressive, but let’s keep it reasonable)
✅ You are both legally single (or divorced/widowed with proper documentation)
💡 Fun Fact: Same-sex marriage has been legal in Denmark since 2012. Love wins here!
Documents You Need
Denmark has one of the simplest marriage application processes in Europe. Here’s what you’ll need:
📌 Valid passports or national ID cards
📌 Proof of marital status (e.g., divorce decree, death certificate if widowed)
📌 Proof of legal residence (if applicable)
📌 Completed marriage application form
🔹 Important: All documents must be in Danish, English, or German. If not, you’ll need certified translations.
Where to Submit Your Marriage Application
Your documents must be submitted to the Danish Agency of Family Law (Familieretshuset), which will review them and issue a marriage approval certificate (typically within 1-2 weeks).
🖥 Official site: Familieretshuset
Once approved, you have four months to get married in Denmark. Let’s talk about where to do it!
Best Wedding Locations in Denmark for International Couples
Denmark isn’t just about Copenhagen! While City Hall weddings are popular, there are some hidden gems that might make your ceremony even more magical.
🏰 Ærø Island – A Fairytale Destination
If you’re dreaming of an intimate, picturesque wedding, Ærø is the place to be. This island specializes in weddings, offering charming town halls and seaside ceremonies.
📍 More info: Ærø Weddings
🌊 Bornholm – A Baltic Paradise
For couples who love nature, Bornholm offers dramatic coastlines, medieval ruins, and quiet beaches. Perfect for a private wedding away from the crowds.
🏛 Copenhagen City Hall – Iconic & Easy
If you want a quick and stylish ceremony, Copenhagen City Hall is a fantastic option. The beautiful architecture and historical charm make for stunning wedding photos.
📍 More info: Copenhagen City Hall
💡 Pro Tip: Some locations allow outdoor weddings—think beaches, gardens, even castles! Ask about options when booking your venue.
The Wedding Ceremony: What to Expect
🎤 Language: The ceremony can be conducted in Danish, English, or German. If you need another language, bring an interpreter.
⏳ Duration: It’s short and sweet—5 to 10 minutes long.
💍 Witnesses: Required, but don’t worry—most locations provide them for free.
📜 Marriage Certificate: You’ll receive two international marriage certificates right after the ceremony.
After the Wedding: Making It Official in Your Country
In most cases, Danish marriage certificates are automatically recognized worldwide. However, some countries require an Apostille stamp for verification.
📍 You can get this from the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Apostille Services
🔹 Pro Tip: If you plan to change your last name after the wedding, check with your home country’s regulations—some require extra steps.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓ How fast can we get married in Denmark?
If you have all your documents ready, you can get married within a few weeks after submitting your application.
❓ How much does it cost to get married in Denmark?
Expect to pay around €220–€250 for the application fee, plus any additional fees for translations, travel, and venue costs.
❓ Do we need a visa to get married in Denmark?
It depends on your nationality. If you can enter Denmark without a visa for tourism, you can also enter for your wedding.
❓ What if we don’t speak Danish?
No worries! The ceremony can be conducted in English or German, and most officials are very accommodating.
Denmark: The Perfect Place for Your Wedding & Photos!
Your wedding day should be stress-free, romantic, and unforgettable—just like your love story.
I specialize in capturing beautiful, authentic moments for couples who choose Denmark as their wedding destination. Whether you’re exchanging vows in Copenhagen City Hall or standing by the sea on Ærø Island, I’ll make sure your memories last a lifetime.
📸 See my portfolio & real love stories: Your Happy Moments Blog
💍 Check my wedding photography packages: Investment Details
📩 Let’s create magic together! Contact me here: Contact
Ready to say “I do” in Denmark? Let’s make it an unforgettable experience. ❤️
