Getting Married in Denmark as a Foreigner
Quick Summary
- Visa Entry: Schengen visa required for non-EU/EEA citizens
- Processing Time: 3-4 weeks from application to marriage certificate
- Language Support: English-speaking staff at Copenhagen municipality
- Same-Sex Marriages: Fully legal and recognized since 2012
- EU Recognition: Automatic recognition in all EU countries
Denmark provides a foreigner-friendly marriage environment with strong legal protections and international recognition. As an EU member, marriages are automatically recognized across Europe. Denmark's progressive stance welcomes international and same-sex couples. This guide covers everything foreign nationals need to know about getting married in Denmark.
Visa Requirements for Foreign Couples
EU/EEA Citizens
Citizens of EU member states and Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway can enter Denmark without a visa. You can stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. For marriages, this is more than sufficient.
- Entry: Visa-free with valid passport or ID card
- Duration: Up to 90 days without visa (sufficient for marriage process)
- Documentation: EU/EEA passport or national ID card
- Cost: Completely free
Non-EU/Non-EEA Citizens
Citizens from outside EU/EEA need Schengen visa for Denmark. Apply at Danish embassy or consulate in your country at least 4 weeks before travel. Plan your visa timeline carefully.
- Visa Type: Schengen short-stay visa (up to 90 days)
- Application: Danish embassy or consulate in home country
- Processing: 4-6 weeks typical processing time
- Cost: €80 (~$85 USD)
- Documents: Passport, flight booking, accommodation proof, financial proof
Language & Communication
English-Speaking Support
Denmark is highly English-friendly. Copenhagen's municipality office employs English-speaking staff. Communication by email in English is standard for marriage applications.
- Municipality Staff: English speakers available in Copenhagen
- Official Forms: Available in English
- Email Communication: Handled in English
- Translation Services: Professional translators available if needed
- Interpreter: Can be arranged for ceremony if needed
Documents for Foreign Couples
Additional Requirements for Non-Danish Citizens
Foreign couples need slightly more documentation than Danish citizens. The key difference is the single status certificate from your home country.
- Single Status Certificate: From your home country's authorities proving no impediment to marriage
- Document Translation: All foreign documents must be translated into English or Danish
- Apostille Certification: Many countries require documents to be apostille-certified
- Certified Copies: Get 3-4 certified copies of birth certificates
Same-Sex Marriage in Denmark
Full Legal Recognition
Denmark legalized same-sex marriage in 2012. LGBTQ+ couples have complete legal equality in marriage rights, documentation, and benefits.
- Legal Status: Fully legal since 2012
- Equality: Identical rights to opposite-sex couples
- Registration: Same process and timeline as any other couple
- International Recognition: EU-wide recognition of same-sex marriages
- Documentation: Certificates show both partners as spouses
International Recognition of Denmark Marriage
EU Automatic Recognition
One major advantage of marrying in Denmark: your marriage is automatically recognized throughout the entire EU. No additional certification needed for EU countries.
- EU Countries: Automatic recognition in all 27 EU member states
- Other Countries: Recognized in most countries worldwide
- Apostille: Can be added for non-EU countries if needed ($20-30)
- Certificate Use: Valid for name changes, visa applications, financial institutions
Practical Tips for Foreign Couples
Pre-Arrival Planning
- Apply for Schengen visa 4-6 weeks before planned travel (non-EU citizens)
- Order certified birth certificates from issuing authorities (get 3-4 copies)
- Obtain single status certificate if required by your country
- Arrange document translation before arrival if possible
- Contact Copenhagen municipality 2-3 weeks before planned marriage
Upon Arrival
- Visit Copenhagen municipality office with all documents
- Complete marriage application form
- Provide translated documents (English/Danish)
- Pay registration fees (DKK 700-900)
- Schedule registration ceremony (typically 1-2 weeks later)
Accommodation & Travel
- Plan 3-5 days in Copenhagen (allows time for document processing)
- Hotels widely available: $80-200 per night
- Public transportation excellent and affordable
- International flights typically $400-900 per person
Money & Payment
Currency & Costs
Denmark uses the Danish Krone (DKK). Most establishments accept credit cards. ATMs widely available.
- Marriage Registration Fee: DKK 700-900 (~$95-120)
- Currency Exchange: DKK to USD rate approximately 1 DKK = $0.14
- Payment Method: Cash or card accepted at municipality
- Card Usage: Credit cards accepted almost everywhere
- ATMs: Abundant in Copenhagen and major cities
Common Challenges & Solutions
- Visa Processing Delays: Apply early; factor in 6 weeks for Schengen visa processing
- Single Status Certificate Not Available: Contact embassy if your country doesn't issue this document
- Document Translation Issues: Use official certified translators; submit both original and translation
- Witnesses Not Available: Municipality can arrange witnesses if you don't have friends/family present
- Time Zone Coordination: Email communication with municipality may take 1-2 days for responses
FAQ: Foreigners in Denmark
Do I need a Schengen visa to visit Denmark for marriage?
Only if you're a non-EU/EEA citizen. EU/EEA citizens can enter visa-free. Non-EU citizens need Schengen visa, apply 4-6 weeks in advance.
What if I only have one day in Denmark?
Not recommended. The full process takes 3-4 weeks. You need at least one return visit for the registration ceremony. Plan minimum 5 days total.
Can we get married if one partner doesn't have a passport?
No. Valid passport required for identification. Get a passport before planning your Denmark wedding.
Do we need witnesses if we're both foreigners?
Yes, two witnesses required in Denmark. They can be friends, family, or arranged through our service.
How do we get a single status certificate?
Contact your country's relevant authority (courts, vital records office, or embassy). Requirements vary by country. Start this process well in advance.
Can we have a wedding celebration in Denmark?
Yes! The municipality ceremony is civil only (15-20 minutes). You can arrange separate celebration dinner, reception, or renewal ceremony. Many couples do this.
Related Blog Posts
- How to Get Married in Denmark: Complete 2026 Guide
- Denmark Wedding Requirements for Foreigners
- Same-Sex Marriage Abroad Destinations
Let Us Handle Your Denmark Wedding
We specialize in helping international couples navigate Denmark's marriage process. From visa planning to ceremony coordination, we manage everything.