How to Get Married in Copenhagen as a Foreigner

Why Choose Copenhagen for Your Wedding?
Copenhagen isn’t just a picturesque backdrop of cobblestone streets and canals—it’s a logistical dream for couples seeking a stress-free, inclusive wedding. Denmark’s laws allow foreigners to marry without residency permits, and the process is famously efficient. Same-sex marriages, interfaith unions, and non-traditional ceremonies are all legally recognized, making it a welcoming destination for diverse couples. Plus, Copenhagen’s mix of historic charm and modern venues means you can exchange vows in a medieval castle or a minimalist Nordic chapel.
Legal Requirements for Getting Married in Copenhagen
Document Preparation
Before packing your bags, gather these essentials:
- Valid Passports: Must be issued within the last 10 years and valid for at least 3 months post-wedding.
- Certificate of Marital Status: Proves you’re legally single, divorced, or widowed. If divorced, bring a stamped divorce decree; if widowed, a death certificate.
- Proof of Legal Stay: A Schengen visa, residence permit, or entry stamp suffices.
Note: Documents not in Danish, English, or German must be translated by a certified professional. Check the required documents list for country-specific exceptions.
The Prøvelsesattest (AFL Certificate)
All couples must apply for this approval from the Danish Agency of Family Law (Familieretshuset). The 1,650 DKK fee covers the review, which takes 5–10 business days if your paperwork is flawless. Delays happen if documents are incomplete—double-check everything!
Booking Your Ceremony
Once approved, schedule your wedding at Copenhagen City Hall or a private venue. Slots fill quickly in summer, so book 3–6 months ahead. The city hall’s non-resident fee is 500 DKK, and ceremonies last just 4 minutes—perfect for no-fuss couples.
Costs of Getting Married in Copenhagen: A Detailed Breakdown
Planning a budget? Here’s a comprehensive table to guide you:
Expense | Cost (DKK) | Details |
---|---|---|
Prøvelsesattest (AFL) | 1,650 | Mandatory legal approval for marriage. Non-refundable fee. |
Copenhagen City Hall Ceremony | 500 | Base fee for non-residents. Excludes venue rentals or decorations. |
Venue Rentals | 2,000–20,000 | Historic castles (e.g., Frederiksborg) cost more than gardens or beaches. |
Document Translations | 300–800/page | Required for non-EU/EEA documents. Cost varies by language. |
Witness Fees | 0 | Copenhagen City Hall provides witnesses for free if needed. |
Marriage Certificate | 200 | Optional for international recognition. Issued post-ceremony. |
Tip: Use services like Marry Abroad Simply or Getting Married in Denmark to bundle costs for venues, translations, and planning.
Top Wedding Venues in Copenhagen
City Hall (Københavns Rådhus)
A grand, red-brick landmark with stained-glass windows and a marble staircase. Ideal for couples prioritizing speed and affordability.
Tivoli Gardens
Marry surrounded by fairy lights and blooming gardens. Tivoli offers packages starting at 10,000 DKK, including photography permits.
Nyhavn Waterfront
Say vows on a historic ship or under pastel-colored townhouses. Permits cost 1,500 DKK for public spaces.
Frederiksberg Palace
A Baroque castle with sprawling gardens. Perfect for luxury weddings (budget 15,000+ DKK).
Post-Wedding Steps: Residency, Recognition, and More
Registering Your Marriage Abroad
While your Danish marriage is legal globally, notify your home country’s embassy. Some nations require an apostille stamp or consular registration.
Residency in Denmark
Marrying a Dane doesn’t grant automatic residency. Apply for a family reunification visa, which requires proof of stable income and housing (learn more).
Name Changes
Denmark doesn’t process name changes for non-residents. Update your passport and IDs through your home country’s system.
Common Challenges (And How to Avoid Them)
- Document Delays: Ensure translations are certified and apostilled.
- Peak Season Rush: Book venues 6+ months ahead for June–August dates.
- Visa Timelines: Apply for a Schengen visa early—processing takes 15–30 days.
FAQs
Final Tips for a Seamless Copenhagen Wedding
- Start Early: Begin document prep 4–6 months before your desired date.
- Hire a Planner: Services like iDoc Copenhagen handle translations and bookings.
- Explore Beyond the City: Consider nearby gems like Kronborg Castle (Hamlet’s home) for a unique twist.
Copenhagen offers a blend of efficiency and enchantment, making it a top choice for couples worldwide. With the right prep, you’ll be saying “ja” in no time. For official updates, visit the Danish Agency of Family Law or the UK Embassy’s guide. And don’t forget to make sure to hire a photographer to capture your magical moment in Copenhagen.
Tillykke—may your Danish wedding adventure be as magical as the city itself!

If you need a
Wedding Photographer in Copenhagen
Planning a wedding in this fairy-tale city? Let’s turn your special day into timeless memories!
I’m Aleks, a Copenhagen-based wedding photographer passionate about storytelling through candid moments and breathtaking backdrops—whether it’s Nyhavn’s colorful canals or Tivoli’s twinkling lights.
Fill out the form below, and I’ll get back to you within 24 hours with packages and ideas tailored to your vision.