For international couples looking for a straightforward, legally recognised and stress-free wedding abroad, Denmark continues to be one of the most popular choices in 2026.
Every year, thousands of foreign, international, mixed-nationality and same-sex couples choose Denmark as the place to begin their married life together. The reasons are simple: the process is easier than in many other countries, the documentation requirements are relatively straightforward, and the marriage certificates are recognised worldwide.
If you have started researching how to get married in your country of residence or citizenship, you may already have discovered that obtaining the required paperwork can be complicated, expensive and time-consuming. For many couples, particularly those living abroad, holding different citizenships or facing legal restrictions in their home country, Denmark offers a practical and welcoming alternative.
This guide explains everything you need to know about getting married in Denmark in 2026.
Why Do So Many Couples Get Married in Denmark?
Denmark has built an international reputation as one of the easiest places in Europe for foreigners to get married legally.
Couples choose Denmark for many reasons, including:
- Straightforward document requirements.
- No requirement for a Certificate of No Impediment.
- No requirement for a Single Status Certificate.
- Fast processing times compared with many other countries.
- Marriage certificates issued immediately after the ceremony.
- International marriage certificates recognised worldwide.
- Ceremony options in English, German or Danish.
- Beautiful locations ranging from Copenhagen to the Danish islands and the German border region.
- A welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ couples.
- Professional wedding planners who can guide couples through the entire process.
For many couples, Denmark removes the bureaucratic obstacles that can make getting married elsewhere feel overwhelming.
Documents Required to Get Married in Denmark
One of the biggest advantages of getting married in Denmark is the relatively simple documentation process.
While every couple’s circumstances are different, most applicants will need:
Valid Passport or EU ID Card
Both partners must provide a valid passport or EU identity card.
Travel documents should remain valid for at least three months beyond the wedding date.
Residence Permit (Where Applicable)
If you are living outside your country of citizenship, you may need to provide evidence of your legal residency.
Relationship Evidence
The Danish authorities require couples to demonstrate that their relationship is genuine.
This is usually straightforward and may include photographs together, travel history and examples of ongoing communication.
Evidence of Living Together
If you live together, supporting evidence can be included within the application.
Birth Certificates for Shared Children
If you have children together, their birth certificates may be required.
Divorce or Death Documentation
If either partner has previously been married, divorce decrees or death certificates must be provided where relevant.
Importantly, Denmark does not require:
- Birth certificates for every applicant.
- Certificates of No Impediment.
- Single Status Certificates.
- Proof of marital status from your home country.
This simplified approach is one of the main reasons Denmark remains so popular with international couples.
The Five-Step Process for Getting Married in Denmark
Step 1: Prepare Your Documentation
Before making an application, you should ensure all required documentation has been gathered and prepared correctly.
This is often where couples encounter difficulties. It is not simply a case of having the correct documents; they must also be presented in the format expected by the Danish authorities.
At Marry Abroad Simply, we help couples understand exactly what is required and ensure applications are prepared correctly from the beginning.
Step 2: Submit Your Marriage Application
Applications are submitted to the Danish Agency of Family Law (Familieretshuset).
This authority reviews applications from foreign couples wishing to marry in Denmark and issues the approval required to proceed.
If you are working with Marry Abroad Simply, we manage this process for you, helping to minimise the risk of delays caused by incomplete or incorrectly prepared applications.
Step 3: Receive Your Marriage Approval
Provided everything has been submitted correctly, approvals are often issued within a matter of days.
If additional information is requested, however, delays can become significantly longer.
This is why getting the application right the first time is so important.
Once approved, you will receive your marriage licence, allowing you to move on to booking your ceremony.
Step 4: Book Your Wedding Date
Only after receiving approval can a wedding date be confirmed.
The availability of wedding venues varies considerably throughout Denmark.
Some locations have availability within a few weeks, while others can be booked months in advance.
The best location often depends on how quickly you wish to marry, your travel plans and the style of wedding you would prefer.
Step 5: Get Married in Denmark
Before the ceremony, you will need to present your original travel documents to the town hall.
Some venues require this on the wedding day itself, while others require presentation the business day before.
Once your identity and legal entry into Denmark have been verified, you are ready to marry.
Receiving Your Marriage Certificate
Immediately following the ceremony, you will receive your marriage certificates.
Most municipalities provide two original copies.
The Danish international marriage certificate is particularly useful because it contains multiple languages on the same document, including:
- English
- Danish
- German
- French
- Spanish
This means translation is often unnecessary when registering your marriage elsewhere.
Before leaving the venue, always check the details carefully to ensure names, dates and spellings are correct.
Do You Need an Apostille?
While Danish marriage certificates are recognised worldwide, some countries require additional legalisation before accepting the certificate.
This is known as obtaining an Apostille under the Hague Convention.
Requirements vary by country, so it is always advisable to check with the relevant authority in your home country before travelling.
If an Apostille is required, it can be obtained in Denmark following your ceremony.
Where Should You Get Married in Denmark?
Each venue has its own atmosphere, availability and practical considerations.
Choosing the right location can have a significant impact on both your experience and how quickly you can secure a wedding date.
Why Use Marry Abroad Simply?
While it is possible to arrange everything yourself, many couples find that working with an experienced wedding planner saves considerable time, stress and uncertainty.
At Marry Abroad Simply, we help couples throughout every stage of the process, including:
- Providing personalised document checklists.
- Reviewing documentation before submission.
- Preparing relationship evidence.
- Managing the marriage application.
- Securing wedding dates.
- Advising on venues and travel.
- Supporting couples before, during and after their wedding.
Our experience helps couples avoid common mistakes that can cause unnecessary delays and frustration.
Most importantly, we make the process as simple and stress-free as possible so that you can focus on celebrating your marriage.
Ready to Get Married in Denmark?
Whether you are an international couple, a mixed-nationality couple, an LGBTQ+ couple or simply looking for an easier way to get married abroad, Denmark remains one of the best options available in 2026.
Contact Marry Abroad Simply today for a free, no-obligation document assessment and personalised guidance based on your circumstances.
We’ll help you understand exactly what is required and guide you through every step of your Danish wedding journey.
