get married in Denmark as a foreigner in 5 steps
from someone who’s seen it all
Let me start with this: getting married in Denmark isn’t just doable — it’s surprisingly simple. That is, once you know the path.
Denmark offers a smooth ride that many couples prefer, rather than swimming in papers back home.
I’ve worked with countless couples from all walks of life — EU citizens, non-EU nationals, expats, even folks with complicated histories like divorce decrees or death certificates to submit. The stories change, but the common thread? Denmark works. Especially if you're feeling stuck somewhere else.
Let’s see it step-by-step so you don’t get lost.
Step 1:
Understand Why Denmark
A lot of people — especially people living in Germany — end up here because they’ve hit walls elsewhere. In many countries, marriage applications take months. In Denmark, you’re often looking at weeks.
Less paperwork. Less waiting. No big lectures.
And you don’t need to be living in Denmark or hold a residence permit (though if you do have residence in Denmark, it helps smooth the ride).
So if you’re short on time or patience, this country just makes sense.
Step 2:
Paperwork You’ll Actually Need
Now — this part matters. Denmark is efficient, but it’s not sloppy. You’ll still need to show you're legally free to marry. Here’s what to gather:
A valid passport or ID card (make sure it's not expired)
Proof of residence (if you have residence in Denmark or elsewhere)
A divorce decree if you’ve previously been married
A death certificate if you're a widow or widower
And—please note—you’ll need to apply for a certificate of marital status in many cases
They’ll want it in English, German, or Danish. Otherwise, get it translated. Don’t wait till the last minute on that — trust me, I’ve seen panic the day before a wedding more times than I can count.
Step 3:
Apply Through the Agency of Family Law
You’ll submit everything through Denmark’s Agency of Family Law. That’s the gatekeeper. They review your docs and — if everything checks out — they’ll approve your application and forward it to the town where you plan to marry.
Timeline? Usually 1–2 weeks for approval. Could be faster. Could be longer if there’s missing info or unclear documents (so, double-check everything before you submit. Seriously.)
Step 4:
Pick a Place for Your Wedding Ceremony
Once your application is approved by the Agency of Family Law, it's time to choose where the magic happens — your wedding ceremony location. And honestly, this is where it starts to feel real.
The most common choice? Copenhagen City Hall.
It’s iconic, grand without being over-the-top, and steeped in Danish history. The marble floors, the high ceilings, and the big wooden doors — all of it has a certain quiet weight to it. You feel it when you walk in. You feel it when you say “I do.”
But Denmark isn’t only about the capital. Some couples prefer smaller, more intimate towns like Ærø — an island that feels almost too romantic to be real. It’s truly a place out of this world, and one of my absolutely favorite, with sea views, cobbled streets, charming old buildings. And the best smoked salmon in the world.
Others go for places like Ribe, the oldest town in Denmark, where you can walk out of the town hall and straight into medieval charm.
There’s also Odense, Tønder, Fanø, Møn, and more—each with its own feel and rhythm.
If you’re unsure which city fits your vibe, it’s worth looking at pictures of the town halls or even asking your photographer (hi 👋) for suggestions. I’ve been to most of them, and some towns just feel right depending on who you are and what kind of story you want to tell.
Want a city wedding? Go with Copenhagen. Want cozy countryside and coastal fields? Ærø. Want old-world charm? Ribe.
Step 5:
Travel + Get Married
Now comes the fun part—your wedding day. Bring your original documents. You don’t even need witnesses (some towns provide them for you) unless otherwise stated.
It’s simple. Personal. Emotional in that “we really made it” way.
And afterward? You get your marriage certificate in multiple languages, that’s accepted in most countries. But please note: some places may require legalization or an apostille. Check with your home country’s authorities just to be sure.
A Few Tips From Someone Who's Seen It All
Some couples think they can "wing it." They arrive with documents missing, or something untranslated. Don’t do this to yourself.
Be honest on your form. If you’ve previously been married, say so. If you’ve changed names, explain it. The more transparent you are, the faster things go.
EU citizens usually have an easier ride. If you're from outside the EU and don’t hold a residence permit, just be extra cautious with documents. It’s not impossible — it just means dotting your i’s matters even more.
Final Thoughts (From Behind the Lens)
As a wedding photographer, I get a front-row seat to all of this. The stress before. The sigh of relief after. The quiet moments when a couple realizes, "This is really happening."
I’ve photographed couples who waited years to get approval back home. And here? They’re done in 30 minutes — then off to celebrate with a glass of wine and a windy walk through Nyhavn.
So if you're looking for a wedding that cuts the stress, respects your timeline, and actually feels like your day, consider Denmark.
Not just because it’s easier. But because it feels like someone finally thought about couples like you.
If you’re planning your wedding ceremony in Denmark, you’ll want an experienced photographer—someone who’s seen hundreds of weddings and knows how to capture the real moments without making it feel staged.
Get in touch here to check my availability.
Let’s make your special day unforgettable.