Imagine this: You and your partner, wrapped in cozy woolen shawls, standing on a black sand beach, the roar of the Atlantic behind you. Or maybe you’re exchanging vows in front of a towering glacier, with the northern lights twinkling above. Iceland isn’t just a place—it’s an experience. And for LGBTQ+ couples, it’s also one of the most welcoming destinations in the world to say “I do.”
If you’re dreaming of an epic same-sex wedding in Iceland, this guide covers everything—from legalities and venues to weather tips and must-know planning hacks.
🌈 Can LGBTQ+ Couples Get Married in Iceland? Absolutely!
Iceland has been ahead of the game when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights.
✅ Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2010 (one of the first countries to do so).
✅ Before that, Iceland had legal partnerships for same-sex couples since 1996.
✅ The country even had the world’s first openly gay prime minister, Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir.
But what really makes Iceland special? It’s not just the laws—it’s the culture. LGBTQ+ couples aren’t just tolerated here. They’re celebrated.
“My wife and I eloped in Iceland in 2022. We were worried about how locals would react, but the love we received was overwhelming. Our wedding planner even cried at our vows!” – Sarah & Emily, USA.
So, legally and socially, Iceland is one of the best places for a destination LGBTQ+ wedding.
📜 Legal Requirements for an LGBTQ+ Wedding in Iceland
Planning a wedding abroad can be daunting, but Iceland makes it refreshingly easy.
✅ Required Documents:
- Valid passports
- Birth certificates
- A certificate of marital status from your home country (proving you’re not already married)
- If divorced or widowed: Relevant legal documents
- Completed marriage application form (get it here)
🕒 Timeline:
- Documents must be submitted at least 3 weeks before your wedding.
- Once in Iceland, you’ll need a short meeting in Reykjavík to finalize paperwork.
💒 Types of Ceremonies:
- Civil wedding at the District Commissioner’s office in Reykjavík.
- Religious or humanist ceremonies, including LGBTQ+-friendly churches.
- Outdoor weddings (which, let’s be honest, is why you’re considering Iceland).
Iceland has no residency requirements, so you can fly in, get married, and enjoy your honeymoon—all in one magical trip.
🏔 Best LGBTQ+ Wedding Locations in Iceland
Choosing a wedding venue in Iceland is like picking your favorite ice cream flavor—there’s no wrong choice!
🌊 1. Reynisfjara (Black Sand Beach Wedding)
This beach near Vík is the stuff of legends—dramatic waves, towering basalt columns, and eerie beauty. Perfect for couples who want Game of Thrones vibes (because, fun fact, scenes were filmed here).
📍 Location: Reynisfjara Beach Info
💦 2. Seljalandsfoss (Waterfall Wonderland)
Want something straight out of a fairytale? Say your vows in front of Seljalandsfoss, where you can even stand behind the waterfall (just bring waterproof boots).
🧊 3. Skaftafell (Glacier Wedding, Anyone?)
Yep, you can get married on an actual glacier. Imagine blue ice, crisp air, and wedding photos that will blow your mind.
🏡 4. Siglufjörður (A Cozy Fjord Wedding)
For a more intimate, small-town setting, this charming northern village is a hidden gem. Think colorful wooden houses and a breathtaking harbor backdrop.
💡 Pro tip: Hire an experienced Icelandic wedding planner (Pink Iceland is a great option) to help with logistics.
🌦 Best Time for an LGBTQ+ Wedding in Iceland
Iceland has wild weather, so choosing the right season is key.
☀️ Summer (June–August): Midnight sun, green landscapes, best for outdoor weddings.
❄️ Winter (November–March): Snowy wonderland, frozen waterfalls, and northern lights magic.
🍂 Spring & Fall (April–May, September–October): Milder weather, fewer tourists, and still stunning scenery.
💰 LGBTQ+ Wedding in Iceland: How Much Does It Cost?
Your wedding budget depends on how epic you want your day to be. Here’s a rough breakdown:
- 💍 Civil ceremony in Reykjavík: €300
- 📸 Elopement with a photographer: €2,000 – €5,000
- 🍾 Full wedding with guests, catering, venue: €10,000+
💡 Money-saving tip: Opt for a weekday wedding—venues and vendors often have lower prices!
📸 Must-Have LGBTQ+ Wedding Vendors in Iceland
To make your wedding stress-free, consider these LGBTQ+-friendly wedding services:
📌 Wedding Planners:
📌 Photographers (That’s Me! 😉)
As a destination wedding photographer, I specialize in capturing love stories that blend epic landscapes with intimate emotions. Whether it’s a glacier elopement or a cozy fjord ceremony, I’ll ensure your wedding photos look like something out of a dream.
📸 See my portfolio: Your Happy Moments Blog
💍 Check my photography packages: Investment
✉️ Let’s chat & plan your dream wedding: Contact Me
❓ LGBTQ+ Wedding in Iceland: FAQ
Q: Can foreigners get married in Iceland?
A: Yes! Iceland allows non-residents to marry with minimal paperwork.
Q: Do we need a wedding officiant?
A: If you’re having a civil ceremony, the district commissioner will officiate. For outdoor weddings, you can hire an independent celebrant.
Q: Is Iceland LGBTQ+ friendly?
A: Absolutely. It’s one of the most inclusive countries in the world!
💡 Final Thoughts: Is Iceland the Perfect LGBTQ+ Wedding Destination?
If you want:
✔️ An unforgettable backdrop (glaciers, waterfalls, black beaches)
✔️ A country that truly embraces LGBTQ+ love
✔️ A wedding that feels like a fairytale adventure
…then YES, Iceland is perfect for your wedding!
And if you need a photographer who can capture the magic, you know where to find me. 😉
💬 Ready to make your Iceland wedding a reality? Let’s start planning today! 🚀
