So, you’re thinking about getting married in Sweden? 🌈💍 Excellent choice! Sweden isn’t just the land of cozy fika breaks, IKEA, and ABBA—it’s also one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly countries in the world. Here, same-sex marriage isn’t just legal; it’s celebrated.
Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate elopement in Lapland under the Northern Lights, a chic Stockholm wedding, or a romantic lakeside ceremony, this guide covers everything you need to know: legal requirements, the best wedding venues, Swedish wedding traditions, and expert tips to make your special day truly magical.
And yes, you can get married in a chapel made of ice. But more on that later…
LGBTQ+ Marriage Rights in Sweden: A Love Story with a Happy Ending
Sweden has been a leader in LGBTQ+ rights for decades. Here’s a quick timeline:
✅ 1944 – Sweden decriminalized homosexuality (meanwhile, some countries still haven’t figured this out 🤦♂️).
✅ 1979 – Sweden became one of the first countries to stop classifying homosexuality as an illness.
✅ 1995 – Sweden introduced civil partnerships for same-sex couples.
✅ 2009 – Sweden fully legalized same-sex marriage! The Lutheran Church of Sweden even allows same-sex weddings. 🎉
So, if you’re looking for a place where love is truly love—Sweden is calling your name.
How to Legally Get Married in Sweden as an LGBTQ+ Couple
Sweden makes it refreshingly easy to get married, even if you’re not a resident. Here’s what you need:
1. The Paperwork 📄
- Hindersprövning (Certificate of No Impediment) – This document from the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket) confirms you’re free to marry.
- Valid Passports & IDs – Basic but crucial!
- Proof of Divorce (if applicable) – If you’ve been married before, you’ll need documentation showing you’re legally single.
👉 Pro tip: If you’re an international couple, the paperwork might take a few extra weeks—so plan ahead!
2. Choosing Your Officiant
- Civil Ceremony – A government official (like a city registrar) can marry you.
- Religious Ceremony – The LGBTQ+-friendly Lutheran Church of Sweden can also officiate your wedding.
3. Where to Say “Ja!”
- Stockholm City Hall – A stunning, historic venue where the Nobel Prize banquets are held. Visit Stockholm City Hall.
- Outdoor Weddings – Sweden’s “freedom to roam” laws mean you can legally marry in forests, on beaches, and even mountaintops.
- Palace Weddings – If you want a royal backdrop, consider Drottningholm Palace here.
Best LGBTQ+ Wedding Venues in Sweden
1. Stockholm’s Archipelago: Secluded Island Romance
Picture this: just you, your partner, and a breathtaking Scandinavian seascape. Artipelag is a modern waterfront venue with epic views. Check it out here.
2. Gothenburg’s Chic Waterfront Elegance
Want a sophisticated city wedding with coastal charm? Upper House in Gothenburg offers skyline views and luxury accommodations. Explore Upper House.
3. Lapland’s Northern Lights Magic
If you’re up for a winter wonderland wedding, say your vows beneath the Aurora Borealis. The Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi even has a chapel entirely made of ice! Learn more here.
4. Malmö’s Urban Cool Vibes
For a trendy city wedding, Malmö has hip rooftop venues, art galleries, and beachside locations. A perfect mix of modern and laid-back!
5. Swedish Castles & Fairytale Estates
Why not say “I do” in a castle? Sweden has many historic mansions and Schloss-style venues perfect for a regal wedding.
Swedish Wedding Traditions (That You’ll Love!)
✨ The Kiss Countdown – If one partner leaves the room, guests rush to kiss the other!
🥂 Epic Speeches – Be ready for a marathon of heartfelt (and sometimes hilariously embarrassing) toasts.
🍰 Princess Cake – Many Swedes ditch traditional wedding cakes for a green marzipan-covered delight.
Why Sweden is the Ultimate LGBTQ+ Wedding Destination
✔️ Full legal recognition & equality – No restrictions on LGBTQ+ marriages.
✔️ Welcoming society – Sweden consistently ranks among the most LGBTQ+-friendly countries in the world.
✔️ Stunning landscapes – From medieval castles to frozen chapels, Sweden has unreal wedding locations.
✔️ Easy paperwork process – No need to be a resident to marry here.
LGBTQ+ Wedding Photography in Sweden: Capture Your Love Story!
Your love deserves to be captured in a way that reflects its beauty, joy, and uniqueness. That’s where I come in! 📸
I specialize in destination weddings and elopements, ensuring that every moment of your special day is documented with authenticity and creativity. Whether you’re exchanging vows under the Northern Lights, at a royal palace, or on a windswept Swedish island, I’ll be there to capture every unforgettable second.
📸 Explore my portfolio: Your Happy Moments Blog
💍 Find the perfect photography package: Investment Page
✉️ Let’s plan your dream wedding together: Contact Me
Final Thoughts: Let’s Make Your Swedish Wedding Unforgettable
Sweden isn’t just a country that allows same-sex marriages—it’s a place that truly celebrates love in all its forms. Whether you’re envisioning a chic city ceremony, a cozy countryside wedding, or an Arctic adventure, Sweden offers everything you need for a fairytale day.
And when it comes to capturing your love story, I’d love to be there for you. Let’s turn your dream wedding into timeless, breathtaking photographs! 💙💛
