Getting Married in Denmark – Step by Step

Getting Married in Denmark – Step by Step

Denmark is one of the easiest and fastest countries in Europe for international couples to marry. The process is straightforward, the paperwork is simpler than in many other countries, and couples of all nationalities, religions, and same-sex couples are welcome.

Unlike many countries, you usually do not need birth certificates or complex civil status documents. In many cases, couples can also marry in Denmark while visiting on a valid tourist or Schengen visa.

At Copenhagen Weddings, we help foreign couples through every step of the process – from application to wedding day.

Step 1: Check if You Are Eligible to Marry in Denmark

To marry in Denmark, both partners must meet the legal requirements:

  • Both must be at least 18 years old
  • Both must be unmarried at the time of application
  • Any previous marriage must be legally ended
  • You must not be closely related
  • Both partners must be able to enter Denmark legally

Denmark welcomes:

  • EU and non-EU citizens
  • Couples of different nationalities
  • Same-sex couples
  • Couples living abroad

Step 2: Collect the Required Documents

The required documents depend on your nationality, residence status, and personal situation.

Commonly requested documents include:

  • Valid passports
  • Residence permits or visas (if relevant)
  • Proof of address
  • Divorce decree or death certificate (if previously married)

Good news: You normally do not need a birth certificate.

Because every case is different, we help you prepare the correct documents from the start to avoid delays.

Step 3: Apply for a Certificate of Marital Status

Before marrying in Denmark, you must apply to the Danish Agency of Family Law for a Certificate of Marital Status.

This certificate confirms that you legally meet the conditions to marry in Denmark.

Application Fee

As of 1 January 2026, the official fee is:

DKK 2,100 (approx. €285)

Step 4: Application Review & Approval

Once your documents are submitted, the Danish authorities review the case.

If everything is correct, approval can be granted in as little as 5 working days.

Sometimes the Agency of Family Law may:

  • Request additional documents
  • Ask clarifying questions
  • Invite the couple for an interview in special cases

This is why it is important to submit the application correctly the first time.

Step 5: Receive Your Certificate

When approved, you receive your Certificate of Marital Status.

This certificate is valid for 4 months, which means your wedding ceremony must take place within that time.

Step 6: Choose Your Wedding Venue & Book the Date

Once approved, you can book your wedding ceremony.

Popular options include:

  • Danish Town Hall wedding
  • Romantic outdoor ceremony
  • Beach wedding
  • Private venue wedding

Some popular town halls may have waiting times during peak season, so early booking is recommended.

Step 7: Wedding Day in Denmark

Before the ceremony, you must present your original identification documents.

Bring With You:

  • Valid passport
  • EU national ID card (if applicable)

Most town halls provide two witnesses free of charge if you do not bring your own.

The civil ceremony is short and elegant, usually lasting 5–10 minutes.

Ceremonies can often be performed in:

  • English
  • Danish
  • German

If needed, you may bring a translator.

Step 8: Receive Your Marriage Certificate

Immediately after the ceremony, you will receive your official international marriage certificate.

It is issued in five languages:

  • Danish
  • English
  • German
  • French
  • Spanish

This makes it widely accepted internationally.

Typical Timeline

Fastest Cases

  • Approval in approx. 5 working days
  • Wedding shortly after approval depending on venue availability

Busy Season

Popular town halls may have waiting times of several weeks or months.

Complex Cases

If documents are missing or unclear, the process can take longer.

Tourist Visa Marriage in Denmark

Many couples marry in Denmark while visiting on a valid tourist visa.

If your visa is not Danish, it should normally be a valid Schengen visa.

Is a Danish Marriage Recognised Internationally?

Yes. A marriage legally performed in Denmark is recognised worldwide.

Some countries may require an Apostille stamp on the marriage certificate before registration locally.

We can also help guide you with Apostille legalization after the wedding.

Why Couples Choose Denmark

  • Fast process
  • Minimal paperwork
  • Internationally recognised marriage certificates
  • Friendly and efficient system
  • Ideal for mixed nationality couples
  • LGBT+ friendly

Let Copenhagen Weddings Help You

We guide you through the full process:

  • Document check
  • Application preparation
  • Fast approval strategy
  • Venue booking
  • Wedding planning
  • Apostille assistance

Stress-free marriage in Denmark starts here.