What You Need to Know About Weddings in Denmark
We answer Frequently Asked Questions:
Why do so many couples choose to get married in Denmark?
It’s easy to explain. Denmark is considered a hassle-free country for international and same-sex marriages. There’s less red tape involved, and wedding dates can often be scheduled on short notice without any problems. Plus, Denmark offers fantastic wedding venues. That’s why so many couples choose Denmark.
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 is 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 were introduced in Denmark. Couples who wish to get married in Denmark now need a certificate of no impediment to marriage, which is issued by the Family Law Agency (Familieretshuset).
It takes about 5–7 days to review the documents, provided the application is submitted correctly the first time. Only then can a wedding date be scheduled. This means that a spontaneous wedding in Denmark is no longer possible. However, an express wedding can be booked through our
How long does it take for the Family Authority to process the application?
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 set.
Can you get married in Denmark with a temporary residence permit?
It is not possible to get married in Denmark with a temporary residence permit!
Is an apostille required after getting married in Denmark?
The apostille certifies the authenticity of your marriage certificate. Whether or not government agencies require an apostille is generally at the discretion of the respective competent authority or municipality in Germany.
For non-EU countries, an apostille or legalization is generally always required. Our agency offers an apostille service.
Is it possible to change one’s name after getting married in Denmark?
In Denmark, there is no automatic name change upon marriage. This means that, initially, both spouses retain their respective surnames. However, you can have your name changed at the registry office in Germany, at the consulate of your home country, or at the relevant authority in your home country.
Can a tourist with a Schengen visa or visa-free status get married in Denmark?
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 residing 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 are unable to find a wedding date on our own.
In such cases, our agency is happy to assist in scheduling a wedding date through us.
How much does a wedding cost in Denmark? The costs typically consist of:
The costs typically consist of:
- The Family Authority’s processing fee,
- Registry office fees,
- Travel and, if applicable, lodging costs
- possible translation or apostille fees,
- and, of course, any additional services you request
As a result, the total cost generally ranges from a few hundred euros, but can also exceed a thousand euros for more elaborate weddings.
Take a look at our wedding package overview
Is it possible to get married in Denmark without any problems?
Same-sex marriage has been legal in Denmark since 2012. Although these marriages are recognized only in countries where they are also legal, this allows same-sex couples to experience a wonderful civil ceremony as well.
Is an interpreter required for a wedding ceremony in Denmark?
Wedding ceremonies in Denmark can be conducted in German, English, and Danish. The registry office explicitly requires the presence of an interpreter if the partner does not speak any of these three languages.
However, when getting married in Denmark, it is not permitted to use one’s own partner as an interpreter, as this could compromise the neutrality and impartiality of the translation. The couple must cover the cost of an interpreter themselves.
Of course, we are happy to help our couples find 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 you do not bring your own witnesses.
Most registry offices offer wedding appointments with your own witnesses and without your own witnesses.
Do couples have to exchange rings during a civil wedding ceremony in Denmark?
Rings do not have to be exchanged during a civil wedding ceremony 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 or not to exchange rings, and this should be discussed with us in advance, as a request to exchange rings could be awkward if no rings are available.
Is it possible to have a secret wedding (elopement) in Denmark?
Yes, Denmark is the perfect country for a secret wedding or elopement.
A secret wedding just for the two of you (or with a very small group) is called an elopement! An elopement in Denmark is even all the rage right now. Getting married in secret is a wonderful alternative for anyone who wants a quiet, romantic wedding spent in pure togetherness.
IMPORTANT! DThe secret wedding remains secret: no information about 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 resident registration office or the civil registry office, etc.
Is it also possible to 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 venues, such as a lighthouse. This usually comes with an additional fee.
Our package for a beach wedding or a wedding at a venue of your choice>
What is the usual attire for a wedding?
Anything goes - from jeans to a wedding dress. Many Danish weddings are fairly simple and casual.
Can children attend the wedding ceremony?
Yes. Children are welcome to attend the ceremony.
Can a dog be present at a civil wedding ceremony?
More and more couples want their dog to be part of their wedding - whether as a silent observer, a ring bearer, or even a guest of honor. Whether a dog is allowed at the ceremony depends on the specific civil registry office or Danish municipality. Some registry offices allow dogs inside their facilities, while others only permit them in outdoor areas.
We know which registry offices and venues in Denmark are dog-friendly. Contact us early to check whether the registry office of your choice is dog-friendly!
When is the best time of year to get married in Denmark?
- Spring & Summer: long days, mild weather
- Fall: quieter & often more affordable
- Winter: a cozy atmosphere, but cool and windy
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us:
★★★
