So, you’re engaged (yay!) and planning your dream wedding in Norway. But here’s the big question—should you have a religious or a civil marriage? This isn’t just about whether Grandma wants to hear church bells or whether you’d rather say “Ja!” on a mountaintop. Your choice affects everything—from legal paperwork to the wedding location and the overall vibe of your big day.
Let’s break it down, sprinkle in some humor, and make sure you walk away knowing exactly which wedding path is right for you!
Civil Marriage in Norway: Simple, Scenic, and Hassle-Free
What is a civil marriage?
A civil marriage in Norway is a legally recognized ceremony performed by a civil registrar, usually at City Hall (Tinghuset). No religious elements, just a straightforward and elegant way to say “I do.”
Oh, and did I mention it’s completely free? Yep. If you get married at City Hall, there’s no charge. Talk about a budget-friendly wedding!
Why choose a civil marriage?
✅ Quick and simple – Less paperwork, fewer formalities, and minimal stress.
✅ Affordable – Did I already mention it’s free? Well, it is.
✅ Stunning locations – Many municipalities allow outdoor civil weddings—so you can say your vows in Lofoten, by a fjord, or even under the Northern Lights!
✅ Inclusive – Perfect for non-religious couples or those with different cultural backgrounds.
How to get married civilly in Norway
- Apply for a marriage license (Ekteskapsattest) at Skatteetaten (Norwegian Tax Administration).
- Submit documents like passports, proof of single status, and residence info.
- Choose your wedding location—City Hall or a dreamy outdoor venue (if approved).
- Exchange vows, sign the papers, and boom—you’re officially married!
💡 Pro Tip: Want a wedding spot that’s jaw-dropping? Consider Trolltunga, Geirangerfjord, or Sognefjord—you’ll feel like you’re in a postcard.
Religious Marriage in Norway: A Ceremony with Meaning
What is a religious marriage?
A religious wedding in Norway is legally recognized as long as it’s performed by an authorized religious official. The most common type is a church wedding (kirkebryllup) in the Church of Norway (Den norske kirke), but other faiths (Catholic, Muslim, Jewish, Buddhist, etc.) also offer ceremonies.
Why choose a religious marriage?
💒 Deeply meaningful – If faith is important to you, this is a profound, spiritual experience.
📖 A more personalized ceremony – Hymns, prayers, and blessings create a heartfelt atmosphere.
🏰 Breathtaking church settings – Norway is home to stunning stave churches, medieval cathedrals, and modern architectural wonders.
Top Church Wedding Locations in Norway
- Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim – Norway’s grandest church (Official Site).
- Borgund Stave Church – A Viking-era masterpiece, perfect for history lovers.
- Oslo Cathedral – A mix of royal elegance and city charm.
How to get married in a church in Norway
- Contact the religious institution to check requirements. Some churches require at least one partner to be baptized.
- Obtain a marriage license from Skatteetaten.
- Plan your ceremony with the officiant—hymns, readings, and all.
- Walk down the aisle, say your vows, and let the bells ring!
💡 Pro Tip: Some stave churches allow non-religious ceremonies, so if you love the aesthetic but aren’t religious, ask about alternative options.
What About Foreign Couples?
Great news! Norway welcomes international couples for both civil and religious weddings. However, non-residents need to provide extra documents, such as a certificate of no impediment to marriage from their home country. All documents must be translated into Norwegian or English.
💡 Plan ahead – The paperwork can take a few months, so don’t wait until the last minute!
Civil vs. Religious Wedding: Which One is Right for You?
💍 Choose a civil wedding if you want:
✔️ A quick, simple, and stress-free process
✔️ An outdoor or non-traditional wedding venue
✔️ A secular ceremony with no religious elements
💒 Choose a religious wedding if you want:
✔️ A faith-based ceremony with traditional elements
✔️ A grand, historic church setting
✔️ A highly personalized wedding experience
💡 Or do both! Some couples get married civilly first, then have a religious blessing later. Double the fun!
FAQ: Everything You’re Wondering About Getting Married in Norway
🧐 Can foreigners get married in Norway?
Yes! Both civil and religious weddings are available to non-residents, but paperwork takes time.
🏔️ Where can I have a scenic civil wedding in Norway?
Popular spots include Geirangerfjord, Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), and the Arctic landscapes of Tromsø.
💒 Do I need to be Christian to have a church wedding in Norway?
For the Church of Norway, at least one partner usually needs to be baptized. Other churches may have different rules.
📅 How far in advance should we plan our wedding?
Civil weddings at City Hall can be booked months in advance, while religious weddings may require at least 6-12 months of preparation.
Need a Photographer for Your Norwegian Wedding?
No matter where you say “Ja!”, you deserve breathtaking wedding photos that capture every emotion, every laugh, and every magical moment. That’s where I come in!
As a destination wedding photographer, I specialize in cinematic storytelling—whether you’re eloping on a mountaintop or having a grand cathedral wedding.
📸 See my wedding stories: Your Happy Moments Blog
💰 Explore wedding photography packages: Investment & Pricing
📩 Let’s talk about your dream wedding photos! Get in touch
Because no matter how you choose to get married, your love story deserves to be told beautifully. 🏔️✨
