Advice on wedding in denmark

We know that there are many questions about a wedding in Denmark. We would like to answer these questions and also advise you on your wishes.

Unfortunately, however, the desire for advice from couples has become so great that our actual work, the planning and application for weddings in Denmark thereby comes too short.

Therefore we have to channel the requests for advice! We hope for your understanding.

We would therefore like to ask you to send us date suggestions via the following request form. We will then select a suitable date and confirm it to you. We will then contact you by phone at the desired date and time.

• Why do so many couples choose to get married in Denmark?
  It’s easy to explain. Denmark is considered a straightforward country for international marriages. That’s why many couples choose Denmark. In addition, there is less red tape, and wedding dates are often available on short notice. Equally important is the fact that international couples are welcome and same-sex marriages are also possible without any issues.
  
  
• Is a wedding in Denmark valid in Germany?
  Yes. A marriage legally entered into in Denmark is normally recognized in Germany as well. The international marriage certificate can usually be used directly. In some cases, it is also advisable to register the marriage with the German registry office. We’d be happy to advise you on when this would be recommended.
  
  
• Do you have to live in Denmark to get married there?
  No. Foreign couples who do not reside in Denmark can also get married there.
  
  
• How quickly can you get married in Denmark?
  Starting in 2019, new laws regarding marriage in Denmark were introduced. Couples who wish to marry in Denmark now require a certificate of no impediment to marriage, issued by the Family Law Agency (Familieretshuset). The review of the documents takes approximately 5–7 days if the application is submitted correctly the first time. Only then can a wedding date be scheduled. SThis means that a spontaneous wedding in Denmark is no longer possible. However, a quickie wedding can be booked through our agency.
  
  
• How long does it take to process the application with the Family Authority?
  After the documents are submitted, the Danish Family Authority reviews the application. This often takes a few days to about two weeks. In more complicated cases, it may take a little longer. After that, a wedding date can be scheduled.
  
  
• Can you get married in Denmark with a temporary residence permit?
  Getting married in Denmark with a temporary residence permit is not possible.
  
  
• Do we need an apostille after getting married in Denmark?
  The apostille certifies the authenticity of your marriage certificate. Whether authorities require an apostille or not is generally at the discretion of the respective competent authority or municipality in Germany.
  For non-EU countries, you generally always need an apostille or legalization. Our agency offers an apostille service.
  
  
• Is it possible to change your name after the wedding in Denmark?
  In Denmark, a name change does not occur automatically upon marriage. This means that both spouses initially retain their respective surnames. However, you can change your name at the registry office in Germany, at the consulate of your home country, or at the relevant authority in your home country.
  
  
• Can you get married in Denmark as a tourist with a Schengen visa or visa-free?
  Yes, it is possible for third-country nationals (non-EU citizens) to get married in Denmark as tourists with a valid Schengen visa. It is also possible for third-country nationals to get married in Denmark under the visa-free entry rule (90-day rule), as long as they are legally staying in the Schengen Area and do not exceed the 90-day limit.
  
  
• We have received a certificate of no impediment to marriage from Familieretshuset, but we cannot find a wedding date ourselves. Can you help us schedule an appointment?
  Yes, our agency would be happy to assist you in scheduling a wedding date.
  
  
• How much does a wedding in Denmark cost?
  The costs typically consist of:
  • Family Authority processing fee,
  • Registry office fees,
  • Travel and accommodation costs
  • Possible translations or apostilles.
  • And, of course, any additional services requested
  As a result, the total cost is usually between a few hundred euros, but can exceed a thousand euros for more complex arrangements.
  
  
• Is same-sex marriage possible in Denmark?
  Same-sex marriage has been possible in Denmark since 2012. While these marriages are recognized exclusively in countries where they are also legal, this arrangement allows same-sex couples to experience a wonderful civil ceremony.
  
  
• Is an interpreter required for the wedding ceremony in Denmark?
  Wedding ceremonies in Denmark can be conducted in German, English, and Danish. The registry office expressly requires the presence of an interpreter if the partner does not speak any of these three languages. It is not permitted to use one’s own partner as an interpreter during a wedding in Denmark. There is a risk that this could compromise the interpreter’s neutrality and impartiality. The couple is responsible for covering the costs of an interpreter. Of course, we assist our couples in finding a suitable interpreter.
  
  
• Are two witnesses required for a wedding in Denmark?
  Two witnesses are required for a wedding in Denmark. These can be friends or family members, or they will be provided by the registry office if the couple does not bring their own witnesses. Most registry offices offer wedding appointments with the couple’s own witnesses and without them.
  
  
• Do rings have to be exchanged during a civil wedding in Denmark?
  Rings do not have to be exchanged during a civil wedding in Denmark. It is entirely up to the couple whether or not to exchange rings.
  Tip from our agency: It is absolutely essential to decide before the wedding whether rings will be exchanged or not, and this should be discussed with us in advance, as a request to exchange rings could be awkward if no rings are present.
  
  
• Are you considering getting married in secret and would like to know where a secret wedding is possible?
  Denmark is the perfect country for a secret wedding or ceremony.
  A secret wedding just the two of you (or with a very small group) is called an elopement wedding! An elopement wedding in Denmark is even all the rage. Getting married in secret is a wonderful alternative for anyone who wants to tie the knot in a quiet, romantic setting, just the two of you.
  IMPORTANT!The secret wedding remains secret: no information regarding the marriage in Denmark is forwarded to Germany or the relevant authorities in your home country. Only you can register your marriage with the relevant authorities, such as the residents’ registration office or the civil registry office, etc.
  
  
• Can you also get married on the beach or outdoors?
  Yes, we can make that happen for you! Some municipalities offer wedding ceremonies on the beach, at the harbor, on islands, or in historic buildings and unique locations, such as a lighthouse. Often for an additional fee.
  
  
• What is the typical attire?
  Anything goes—from jeans to a wedding dress. Many Danish weddings are fairly simple and casual.
  
  
• Can we bring children?
  Yes. Children are allowed to be present at the ceremony.
  
  
• Can our dog be present at the civil wedding ceremony in Denmark?
  More and more couples want their dog to be part of the wedding—whether as a silent observer, a ring bearer, or even a guest of honor. Whether the dog is allowed at the wedding depends on the specific registry office or Danish municipality. Some registry offices allow dogs inside the building, while others only permit them in outdoor areas.
  We know the dog-friendly registry offices & venues in Denmark. Contact us early to check if the registry office of your choice is dog-friendly!