Marriage in Denmark – Step-by-Step Guide

Denmark is one of the most popular countries for international couples who wish to get married.

The procedure is transparent, legally recognised, and suitable for both same-sex and opposite-sex couples — regardless of nationality or country of residence.

Who Can Get Married in Denmark?

In Denmark, the following couples can get married:

    •    Same-sex and opposite-sex couples

    •    Couples with different nationalities

    •    Foreign nationals without a residence permit in Denmark

    •    Couples holding a tourist visa or a Schengen visa

 

Important requirements:

 

    •    Both partners must be over 18 years old

    •    Both partners must be legally free to marry

Types of Marriage Ceremonies in Denmark

In Denmark, two options are possible:

1. Civil Marriage in a Municipality

This is an officially registered and legally valid marriage that:

    •    is registered by the Danish authorities

    •    is recognised in most countries worldwide

    •    can be used for further legal procedures (residence permits, name change, etc.)

 

The ceremony can be:

    •    short and formal

    •    or more personal and warm (depending on the municipality)

2. Symbolic Ceremony

Some couples additionally choose to have a symbolic celebration, for example:

    •    with personal wedding vows

    •    with a photographer

    •    as a beautiful and individual ceremony for themselves

 

However, only the civil marriage registered at the municipality is legally valid

Where Does the Marriage Take Place?

 

The marriage registration takes place in Danish municipalities.

Each municipality:

    •    is authorised to register marriages

    •    works under the same Danish legislation

    •    may differ in processing times, available languages, and ceremony formats

We select the most suitable municipality individually, depending on:

    •    your personal situation

    •    your preferred timeframe

What Documents Are Required to Get Married in Denmark?

The basic documents usually include:

    •    Passports of both partners

    •    Proof of marital status

    •    Divorce documents (if applicable)

    •    Proof of legal stay (visa or residence permit)

⚠️ Important:

The exact list of documents is always individual and depends on:

    •    nationality

    •    country of residence

    •    visa type

    •    personal family history

Documents After a Divorce

If one or both partners were previously married, it must be proven that the previous marriage has been legally dissolved.

One of the following documents is accepted:

    •    Divorce certificate

    •    Court decision

    •    Death certificate of the former spouse

Document requirements:

    •    must be officially issued

    •    must fully match the data in the passport

Translation of Documents

If documents are:

    •    not in Danish

    •    not in English

    •    not in German

an official translation is required.

Common mistakes:

    •    non-certified translations

    •    inaccurate wording

    •    discrepancies in names or dates

Such mistakes can lead to delays of up to 6 months.