How to get married in Denmark for foreigners

August 3, 2024

Thinking about tying the knot in Denmark? Great choice! Getting married in Denmark as a foreigner is a seamless and appealing option drawing couples from across the globe.

Denmark is welcoming international couples from around the world and its efficient bureaucracy makes it a breeze for foreigners looking to get married in Denmark. To make the whole process as easy as possible for you, we have created a guide to help you navigate the essential steps and requirements for marriage in Denmark.

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Residency Requirements

One of the most significant advantages of getting married in Denmark is no strict residency requirements. Foreigners can arrive in Denmark on a tourist visa and embark on their journey to getting married in Denmark within just a few days, making it a convenient choice for international couples. However, you must provide legal documentation and adhere to specific procedures.

Choose a Location

Denmark offers countless beautiful and historic locations for your wedding, including Copenhagen, Tønder, Ærø, Ribe, and more. Whether you dream of a romantic ceremony in a vibrant city or a peaceful celebration in a charming coastal town, Denmark has the perfect setting for you. Each location offers a unique experience, making heiraten in Dänemark an unforgettable journey for you and your partner.

For instance, Copenhagen combines modern elegance with historic charm, offering stunning venues like castles, gardens, and waterfront spaces. In Tønder, you’ll find a quaint atmosphere ideal for intimate weddings, while Ærø is renowned for its fairy-tale-like ambiance, attracting couples from all over the world. Ribe, Denmark’s oldest town, provides a magical setting steeped in medieval history.

When planning heiraten in Dänemark, start by selecting the city or town that best matches your preferences and vision. Once you’ve chosen the perfect location, research available venues such as hotels, chapels, or outdoor spaces. Be sure to book early, as popular spots tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak wedding seasons. Additionally, consider logistics such as accommodation for you and your guests and any local attractions you may want to explore before or after your ceremony.

No matter where you decide to say “I do,” Denmark’s welcoming atmosphere, efficient wedding procedures, and breathtaking scenery ensure a stress-free and memorable wedding experience.

Gather Required Documents

To get married in Denmark, you’ll need to assemble a set of essential documents. Ensuring that all required paperwork is in order is crucial for a smooth and stress-free experience. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the documents needed for heiraten in Dänemark:

Valid Passport:
Both you and your partner must present a valid passport to confirm your identities. Make sure your passport is up-to-date and in good condition.
Proof of Legal Residence:
If you’re not a Danish citizen, you’ll need to provide proof of your legal residence in your home country or the country you currently reside in. This could include a visa, residence permit, or an entry stamp from your latest travel.
Original Birth Certificates of Your Children (if applicable):
If you and your partner have children together, you may need to present their original birth certificates as part of the documentation process.
Certificate of Marital Status:
A certificate of marital status is indispensable for the process of heiraten in Dänemark. This document proves that you are either single, divorced, or widowed, ensuring that you are legally eligible to marry.
Divorce or Death Certificates (if applicable):
If either you or your partner were previously married, you’ll need to provide official documentation such as divorce decrees or death certificates of former spouses. These documents confirm that you are free to enter a new marriage.
Witnesses:
Danish law requires two witnesses to be present at your wedding ceremony. These can be friends or family members you bring with you. Alternatively, many town halls in Denmark can provide witnesses upon request, ensuring this requirement is easily fulfilled.
Document Translation and Notarization:
It’s important that all your documents are in English, German, Danish, or another Nordic language. If any documents are in a different language, they must be translated by a certified translator and notarized to ensure their validity. This is a critical step when preparing for heiraten in Dänemark, as improperly translated documents can delay or complicate the process.

Additional Tips for Heiraten in Dänemark:

Double-check the Requirements: Each Danish town hall may have specific preferences for document submission. It’s a good idea to contact the chosen town hall in advance to confirm the exact requirements.
Plan Ahead for Translations: Notarized translations can take time, so start this process early to avoid delays.
Keep Digital and Physical Copies: Having multiple copies of your documents (both digital and physical) ensures that you’re prepared in case anything gets misplaced.

By ensuring that all your documents are complete, properly translated, and notarized, you’ll avoid unnecessary delays and make the process of heiraten in Dänemark as smooth as possible. If you need more information about the required paperwork, visit our detailed guide on required documents for getting married in Denmark to make sure you’re fully prepared for your special day.

Apply for “Ægteskabsattest”

The next step in the process of heiraten in Dänemark is scheduling an appointment with the Agency of Family Law (Familieretshuset) to apply for a marriage license, known as a Prøvelsesattest. This is a pivotal document that officially grants permission for your wedding to take place in Denmark.

What You Need to Know About the Prøvelsesattest

Purpose of the Prøvelsesattest:
The Prøvelsesattest serves as formal confirmation that you meet all the legal requirements to get married in Denmark. It’s a necessary step for both Danish residents and international couples.
Validity Period:
Once issued, the Prøvelsesattest is valid for 4 months. This means you must schedule your wedding date within this period. If the document expires before your wedding day, you will need to reapply, which can result in delays.
Application Process:
To apply, you must submit all the required documents (as previously mentioned) and pay an application fee. After the application is processed and approved, the Prøvelsesattest will be issued. Processing times can vary, so it’s best to apply well in advance of your intended wedding date.
Where to Submit the Application:
Applications are typically submitted online through Familieretshuset’s website. You may also need to attend an appointment or provide additional documentation upon request.

Important Tips for a Smooth Process

Prepare All Documents Early: Ensure that your documents are translated and notarized, if necessary, before submitting your application.
Choose Your Wedding Date Wisely: Since the Prøvelsesattest is only valid for 4 months, plan your ceremony date carefully to avoid last-minute complications.
Follow Up: Keep track of your application status and contact Familieretshuset if there are any delays or uncertainties.

Completing this step brings you closer to your dream wedding in Denmark. For more information on how to prepare for this process, visit our detailed guide on obtaining the Prøvelsesattest.

Wedding Ceremony in Denmark

For the actual wedding ceremony, you have the option to choose between a civil ceremony or a religious ceremony, depending on your personal beliefs, traditions, and preferences. This choice allows you to tailor your wedding experience to reflect your unique values and relationship.

Civil Ceremony in Denmark

Civil ceremonies are the most popular choice for international couples looking to marry in Denmark due to their simplicity and efficiency. These ceremonies are conducted at the local town hall (Rådhus) and are officiated by a registrar.

Location Options: Most town halls across Denmark offer charming and professional settings for civil weddings. Some even provide outdoor options during warmer months.
Duration and Formalities: A civil ceremony is typically short and straightforward, lasting around 10–15 minutes. After the formal exchange of vows, the registrar will present the couple with a marriage certificate.
Witness Requirement: Two witnesses must be present during the ceremony. If you don’t have witnesses available, the town hall can usually provide them upon request.

Religious Ceremony in Denmark

If your preference leans towards a traditional or faith-based celebration, a religious ceremony might be the right option. These ceremonies can take place in a church or another suitable religious institution recognized in Denmark.

Requirements for a Religious Wedding:
1. Both partners must often meet specific criteria set by the religious institution (e.g., baptism or confirmation in the chosen faith).
2. Additional documentation, such as letters from your home parish, may be required.
Personalization: Religious ceremonies often allow for more personalized elements, such as readings, hymns, or traditional rituals, making the experience deeply meaningful.

Why This Step is Crucial

This step is the heart of the process of marriage in Denmark, where the legal and emotional aspects of your union come together. Whether you opt for a civil or religious ceremony, Denmark’s welcoming and accommodating approach ensures a memorable experience.

Tips for Planning Your Wedding Ceremony in Denmark

Book Early: Town halls and religious venues may have limited availability, especially during peak wedding seasons. Secure your preferred date and time well in advance.
Communicate Preferences: Share your vision for the ceremony (e.g., language preferences or special requests) with the officiant or registrar to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Plan Your Celebration: Consider local traditions or personal touches to make your wedding day truly unforgettable.

For more insights into the process and tips for planning, visit our guide to planning your wedding ceremony in Denmark and ensure every detail is just as you’ve envisioned.

Marriage Certificate

After the ceremony, you’ll receive a marriage certificate in Danish. If needed, you can request an international version in English or German, making it easier to register your marriage abroad. Simply inform the registrar, and be prepared for a small additional fee. This ensures your marriage is recognized internationally without further translations.

Post-Wedding Formalities

Once you’re married, don’t forget to inform your home country’s authorities and update your marital status, an essential post-marriage task for foreigners getting married in Denmark. The validity of your Danish marriage certificate may depend on the laws and regulations of your home country, so it’s vital to clarify these details and ensure that your marriage in Denmark is legally recognized abroad.

After your wedding, you have the perfect opportunity to enjoy your honeymoon in Denmark, exploring its rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and historic sites, making the entire process of marriage in Denmark for foreigners even more memorable.