How to Get Married in Denmark (2025) | exploringdenmark
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How to Get Married in Denmark (2025)

Denmark is famously simple for international couples—fast approvals, English-friendly ceremonies, and beautiful locations. Here’s your step-by-step plan.

Did you know? Denmark is a top EU destination for “international weddings”—quick, efficient, and widely recognized abroad.

Overview: Why couples choose Denmark

⚡ Minimal residency rules

No residency required—tourists and non-residents can apply and marry in Denmark.

🧾 Streamlined paperwork

Online application to the Agency of Family Law with scans of core documents.

✅ Internationally recognized

Danish marriage certificates are accepted in the EU and most countries (often with Apostille).

Marriage steps in Denmark (2025)

1️⃣ Apply online

Submit to the Agency of Family Law and pay the state fee. Upload documents for both partners.

2️⃣ Receive approval

You’ll get an “Approval to Marry” letter. It’s usually valid for 4 months.

3️⃣ Book your ceremony

Choose any Danish town/city hall and book a slot. Bring your approval and passports on the day.

Required documents

🪪 Passports / EU IDs

Valid passports (or EU national ID cards). Clear scans/photos are typically fine for the application.

🗂️ Marital status proof

Certificate/affidavit showing you’re single (or divorce/death certificate if previously married).

🛂 Proof of legal entry

For non-EU citizens: Schengen entry stamp/visa, residence permit, or other entry proof.

Translations: Documents not in Danish, English, or German usually need official translation.

Fees & processing times (2025)

💳 Government fee

DKK 1,900 (approx. €255) payable online when applying.

⏱️ Approval time

Typical 1–2 weeks. Complex cases or missing docs can take up to ~2 months.

📅 Ceremony booking

Many city halls have slots within 1–3 weeks after approval (peak summer may be longer).

Popular ceremony locations

🏛️ Copenhagen City Hall

Historic, central, and very experienced with international couples.
Booking & info

🏝️ Ærø & romantic islands

Ærø, Langeland, Fanø—famous for scenic seaside weddings, often with English-speaking staff.

🌆 Other city halls

Aarhus, Odense, Tønder, Ribe, Kolding, Helsingør and more—some offer Saturday ceremonies.

Tips & legal facts

🗣️ Language

Ceremonies can be in English or Danish—request your preference when booking.

🧾 Apostille

For use abroad, get your certificate Apostilled by the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

👥 Witnesses

Two witnesses required—most city halls can provide them if you’re travelling alone.

Frequently asked questions

🏠 Do we need to live in Denmark?

No. There’s no residency requirement—non-residents are welcome.

🌈 Same-sex marriage?

Yes. Same process and rights as any couple.

🗣️ Ceremony in English?

Yes—request English (or Danish). Certificates can be issued in English too.

⏳ How fast can we marry?

With ready documents and available slots, many couples marry within 2–3 weeks of applying.

📜 Which docs need translation?

Anything not in Danish, English, or German usually needs an official translation.

👥 Guests & witnesses?

Bring guests if you like (space can be limited). City halls can provide witnesses if needed.