How to Get Married in Copenhagen(2026 edition): The Stress-Free Guide for International Couples
The "Las Vegas" Myth
Step 1: The Application
Step 2: The Approval
Bonus
Step 3: The Ceremony
What’s next
Insider Tips from a Local Photographer
Frequently Asked Questions
TABLE OF CONTENT
The "Las Vegas" Myth
You have probably heard Denmark called the "Las Vegas of Europe." I’ve always felt that nickname does the city a disservice.
Yes, it is faster to get married here than in Germany, Switzerland, or UK. But it isn't reckless. The Danish system is efficient because it is centralized, not because it is careless.
If you are reading this, you are likely an international couple. Maybe you hold different passports, or perhaps you just realized that getting married in your country of residence involves a mountain of paperwork that could take six months to climb.
Copenhagen is the answer. It is legally recognized worldwide, streamlined, and—most importantly—it allows you to focus on being partners rather than bureaucrats.
I have photographed countless couples who navigated this process. It generally boils down to three distinct stages. Here is exactly how to handle them.
Step 1: The Application
Goal: Submit your case to the Agency of Family Law (Familieretshuset).
The biggest misconception is that you apply directly to the City Hall. You don’t. Since 2019, all international paperwork is handled by a central national authority to ensure consistency.
You will submit your application through their online portal. The fee is currently 2,100 DKK (approx. €285). This fee is non-refundable, so accuracy matters.
The "Magic" Documents: Every case varies, but the standard requirement list usually includes:
Passports: Photos of every single page, including the blank ones.
Residency Proof: If you live in the EU, you’ll need your valid residence permit or visa.
Relationship Proof: This surprises people, but you need to prove you know each other. Photos of you together, chat logs, or flight tickets usually suffice.
Divorce Decrees (if applicable): If you’ve been married before, you’ll need the decree, usually with an apostille.
A good rule of thumb? Upload everything in colour — even the blank pages — and make sure the scans are clear.
Getting stuck on the documents? If your situation is complex—like a rejected visa in the past—I often recommend getting help from agencies.
You may also want to read about: DIY vs. Agency: Do You Need a Wedding Planner for the Paperwork?
Step 2: The Approval
Goal: Receive your "Prøvelsesattest" (Certificate of Marital Status).
Once you hit submit, the waiting game begins. The Agency officially aims to process straightforward cases within 5 working days, though in peak season, this can vary.
When you are approved, you receive a Certificate of Marital Status. This is your golden ticket. It confirms you are legally clear to marry. Note that this certificate expires after four months, so you need to book your wedding date within that window.
Bonus: Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Married in Denmark (2026)
Here’s what the process looks like in practice:
Pick your location. Decide which town hall (kommune) or venue you’d like. Copenhagen City Hall is popular, but smaller municipalities — like Ærø or Fanø — have their own charm.
Prepare your documents. Collect, scan, and translate (if needed) all required papers. Remember: colour copies only.
Submit your application. Log into the Familieretshuset portal using MitID (a digital ID system used in Denmark). Upload everything, fill out the form, and pay the fee.
Wait for approval. You’ll usually get a reply within five working days if all looks good.
Book your ceremony. Once approved, reach out to your chosen town hall. Some offer online booking; others prefer email or phone. Summer slots (especially July and August) disappear quickly, so plan ahead.
Verify your documents in person. Before your wedding, both of you must show your passports and visas at the town hall — either the day before or right before the ceremony, depending on the municipality’s rules.
Get married! The ceremony takes around ten minutes, and you’ll receive your marriage certificate right after. It’s issued in five languages — Danish, English, German, Spanish, and French — which usually means you don’t need a translation later.
Step 3: The Ceremony
Goal: Book your date and say "I Do."
With your certificate in hand, you can finally contact the municipality (Copenhagen City Hall) to book your specific date.
The Location: If you are hoping for a May to September ceremony at the famous City Hall, book as early as possible—those slots disappear fast. However, Copenhagen is more than just one building. Throughout the year, you can book open-air ceremonies in locations like the Royal Library Garden or the Opera House.
You can read more about open air weddings in the end of the blog.
From "Paperwork" to "Party" (Where I Come In)
You came to Copenhagen for simplicity. Our job is to make sure your wedding day matches that intention: organized, comfortable, and actually enjoyable.
You can spend weeks filtering through Instagram, comparing vendors, and coordinating separate timelines—or you can hand it to someone who’s done this dozens of times.
We compress the vendor search, coordination, and wedding day unknowns into one decision and one point of contact.
Speaking of wedding day unknowns, read about how your days could look like in 2 hours VS 4 hours VS full day.
What the DreamSonder Full Service Offers:
Instead of managing a separate photographer, stylist, and florist, you get:
Clarity: A clear, detailed timeline you understand before you arrive.
Coordination: One person managing your timeline, not three separate vendors.
Styling: Professional hair, makeup, and fresh florals handled by vetted professionals.
Documentation: Documentary-style photography that captures real, relaxed moments, not forced poses.
Confidence: Your energy goes toward the experience, not the logistics. They assume that because it’s a "civil ceremony," it has to be dry or functional.
See what your day could look like: Browse real weddings from Gina & Yumo who turned a simple signing into a stylish celebration.
A Few Insider Tips
Apply at least a month in advance, especially if you’re coming from outside the EU.
If you want photos at Copenhagen City Hall, book a weekday morning slot — the light is softer and the crowds are thinner.
Remember that some town halls close for summer holidays in July.
If you’re planning a mini-honeymoon, consider a few nights at The Grand Joanne or a canal cruise to celebrate — couples love these local touches.
Common Questions (and Straight Answers)
How long is the Certificate of Marital Status valid?
Four months from the issue date. If time runs out, you’ll need to reapply.
Do we need witnesses?
It depends on the municipality. Some provide them for you; others ask you to bring two of your own.
Can we change our wedding location after approval?
Yes, but it’s easier to decide early. Each municipality has its own schedule and booking system.
Do we need an Apostille stamp?
If you plan to use your Danish marriage certificate outside the EU or in a non-Hague country, yes — you’ll need to get it legalised with an Apostille (about DKK 235 per document).
Ready to turn the "Logistics" into a "Wedding"? Me and my team are here for you.
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