Registration of marriage in Denmark

Registering a Marriage in Denmark: A Preferred Option for Foreigners in Europe

In recent years, Denmark has become a very popular destination for foreign couples – especially for those living in Germany and other EU countries – who want to marry in a faster and easier way than the often complicated procedures required in some other countries.
Denmark is known for its flexible marriage laws, quick processing times and its willingness to accept many constellations that are difficult or almost impossible to formalise elsewhere.

In this article, you will find everything you need to know about getting married in Denmark – from eligibility criteria and required documents to the application steps and typical costs.

Why do so many couples choose to marry in Denmark?

The main reason is the simplicity and clarity of the procedures.
Unlike countries such as Germany or Austria, Denmark does not usually require a large number of complex documents and does not demand a long prior period of residence.

This makes Denmark an ideal destination for:

• foreign couples who live in other European countries

• marriages between a refugee and a foreign national

• marriages between partners of different religions or nationalities

• people who are unable to obtain a “certificate of no impediment to marry” in their own country

Who can get married in Denmark?

In principle, any two persons – regardless of nationality or place of residence – can marry in Denmark if:

• both are at least 18 years old

• neither is currently married (i.e. both are single, divorced or widowed)

• there is no close blood relationship between them

• they hold valid documents proving their identity and marital status

Documents required to register a marriage in Denmark

For both partners:

• Valid passport or European ID card

• Valid visa or residence permit (if one partner is not an EU citizen)

• Schengen entry stamp (if the person is not already resident in Europe)

• Proof of marital status (certificate of single status, divorce decree or death certificate of former spouse)

• Completed marriage application form from the Danish Agency of Family Law

All documents must usually be translated into English or Danish by an authorised translator.
For certain nationalities, legalisation with an Apostille or consular confirmation may also be required.

How does the process work? Step by step

1. Online application

The application is submitted to the Danish Agency of Family Law (Familieretshuset) via its official website or through a licensed intermediary agency.
Scanned copies of the documents are uploaded, and the application fee (around 250 euros) is paid online.

2. Review and approval

Once the application has been submitted, the review normally takes about 5 to 15 working days.
If the application is approved, you will receive a “Marriage Approval Letter” confirming that you may marry in Denmark.

3. Choosing the municipality

You can then choose the municipality (Kommune) where you wish to marry.
The most popular ones include Tønder, Copenhagen and Ærø, as they are experienced in dealing with international couples and often offer quick appointments.

4. Attending the ceremony

On the agreed date, you and your partner attend the chosen municipality with your passports.
The marriage is concluded in front of a registrar, and you receive your Danish marriage certificate immediately afterwards.

Is the Danish marriage certificate recognised internationally?

Yes.
A marriage certificate issued by a Danish municipality is recognised throughout the European Union and in most other countries, especially when it is accompanied by an Apostille from the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

In Germany, for example, a marriage conducted in Denmark can usually be registered without major difficulties at the local Standesamt.

How much does it cost?

In total, the overall costs will typically range between around 500 and 1000 euros, depending on your situation and on whether you use an agency.

Is a fast-track marriage possible in urgent cases?

Yes.
Some Danish municipalities offer an accelerated process in special situations, such as:

• pregnancy

• specific humanitarian or family-related circumstances

• imminent expiry of a residence permit or visa

You must submit suitable documentation of the emergency situation together with your application.

After the marriage: What comes next?

• You can register the marriage in your current country of residence (for example, Germany, Sweden or the Netherlands).

• The marriage certificate can be used to apply for family-reunion residence permits.

• It can also be submitted as part of immigration, residence or citizenship applications at a later stage.

Key terms:

• Familieretshuset – Danish Agency of Family Law

• Apostille – internationally recognised legalisation stamp

• Marriage Certificate – official proof of marriage

• Municipality (Kommune) – local city or town authority

• Marriage Approval – official pre-approval to marry in Denmark

Conclusion:

Getting married in Denmark is a fast and legally sound option for foreign couples who face obstacles in their country of origin or residence.
Simple procedures, reliable international recognition and relatively moderate costs make Denmark an excellent starting point for a legally secure married life together.

With carefully prepared documentation, it is often possible to complete the entire process and get married within roughly two weeks of submitting the application.

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The team of authors and editors of this website strives to provide accurate information based on thorough research and consultation of multiple sources. Nevertheless, errors may occur or some details may be incomplete or not fully settled in legal terms. Therefore, please treat the information in this article as an initial reference only and always contact the competent authorities or qualified professionals for binding and up-to-date guidance.