Why Get Married in Denmark
- Updated: July 24, 2026
The easiest, most welcoming, and most romantic place in Europe to say “I do.”
For more than 60 years, Denmark has been known as one of the easiest countries in the world for international couples to get married.
The process is simple, fast, and inclusive — designed to welcome love in all its forms, without unnecessary barriers or bureaucracy.
Where You Are in the Journey
The Easiest Country for Foreigners to Get Married
Denmark’s appeal starts with simplicity.
The documents required are straightforward, approvals are fast (usually five working days), and there’s one central government department — the Agency of Family Law (Familieretshuset) — dedicated to international couples.
Once approved, you can choose from beautiful town halls across the country — from Copenhagen’s grandeur to charming island venues.
And with a strong local wedding community (photographers, florists, stylists, and more), planning your Danish wedding is easier than you might expect.
- Explore why Denmark is the easiest country for foreigners to marry
The Benefits of Getting Married in Denmark
Here’s why Denmark stands out for international couples:
- No requirement for birth or single-status certificates
- You can marry on a tourist visa
- Fast approval (within 5 working days when done right)
- No expensive lawyers or bureaucracy
- Dedicated international marriage agencies
- Simple communication in English and German
Denmark lets you focus on what matters most — your wedding, not the paperwork.
- Explore the benefits of getting married in Denmark
7 Reasons Denmark Is the Easiest Country for Foreigners to Get Married
More than 20,000 international couples marry in Denmark every year — a tradition dating back to the 1960s.
Here’s what makes it the easiest place in Europe to get married:
- No birth or single-status certificate required
- Marry on any visa (tourist, Schengen, residence, etc.)
- 100% online application process
- No minimum stay required
- Possible to arrive, marry, and leave the same day
- Town halls can provide witnesses
- Receive your international marriage certificate immediately
- Discover 7 reasons Denmark is the easiest country for foreign couples
When to Marry in Denmark — Every Season Has Its Charm
Denmark’s charm changes beautifully with the seasons:
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Romantic candlelight and cozy ceremonies
- Spring (Mar–May): Blossoms and soft light
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Long days and outdoor photos
- Autumn (Sep–Nov): Warm colours and peaceful town halls
If you have a specific time of year in mind, apply early (no more than four months in advance) to secure your perfect date.
- See when to get married in Denmark by season
Do You Need a Wedding Planner in Denmark?
Many couples assume they’ll need a wedding planner when marrying abroad — but in Denmark, it’s rarely necessary.
Specialised marriage agencies (like ours!) can guide you through the entire process — from your first consultation to after your ceremony — usually at a fraction of the cost of a traditional planner.
You get expert guidance, personal communication, and a smooth, stress-free experience.
- Find out if you need a wedding planner in Denmark
A Long History of Openness and Inclusion
Since the 1960s, Denmark has proudly welcomed couples from around the world.
It was one of the first countries in the world to legalise same-sex unions and remains one of the most inclusive marriage destinations anywhere.
That spirit of openness continues to define Denmark’s wedding culture today.
- Learn more about LGBTQ+ weddings in Denmark
Frequently Asked Questions
Can foreigners get married in Denmark easily?
Yes, most definitely, people from all over the world have been coming to Denmark to marry since the 60s and today around 20,000 foreign couples come to Denmark to marry every year.
Many of these couples are in multinational relationships who choose to journey to Denmark for their special day to avoid cumbersome bureaucracy in their residing countries.
Some couples are just looking for somewhere for a discreet elopement and others have bigger celebrations planned in a different country.
Denmark welcomes people from all nations, and we think this is pretty awesome!
Do both partners need to be residents in Denmark?
Yes, getting married in Denmark with a tourist visa is absolutely possible.
You don’t need to be residing in Denmark to get married here. We know this is a requirement for many countries, but it’s not a requirement in Denmark.
You can get married in Denmark even though you’re not a Danish citizen or a resident.
It’s no problem if you have a visa, permit, or use your visa free days. As long as you legally enter the country, you can get married in Denmark.
You can read more about the visa types you can use to get married in Denmark on our website here.
Why is it easier to get married in Denmark?
It’s easier to get married in Denmark, simply because the bureaucracy is much lighter than many other countries.
You don’t need to jump through as many hoops or provide as much paperwork and so the whole process is much quicker.
Also, once you’re here in Denmark, it’s very comfortable and easy to navigate.
Denmark has a great infrastructure and is very welcoming to foreign visitors. Most Danes can speak English too.
The whole experience of Getting Married in Denmark is just lovely from start to finish, especially with our support!
Not sure where to begin?
Get your free required documentation list.
We’ll tell you exactly which documents you and your partner need — no stress, no guesswork.
Rasmus Clarck Sørensen
Co-Founder & The Digital Janitor of GMiD