Denmark has become one of Europe’s most popular destinations for international couples who want to get married quickly, officially, and without excessive bureaucracy. A minimal document package, a straightforward process, and a marriage certificate in hand immediately after the ceremony — in five languages at once. This isn’t marketing language; it’s the reality that draws tens of thousands of couples from around the world every year.
VisaV.pl organises weddings in Denmark end to end — from document collection to receiving the certificate with an apostille. This article covers everything you need to know before you start gathering paperwork.
Why Couples Choose Denmark for Marriage Registration?
- Timeline from document submission to wedding — 2 to 4 weeks
- Minimal document package — passport, proof of residence, and a few forms
- Marriage certificate issued immediately after the ceremony — in five languages simultaneously
- Marriage recognised in most countries worldwide — including Poland, Ukraine, and EU member states
- No Danish residency required — a couple can travel specifically for the wedding
- Same-sex marriages have been legal in Denmark since 2012
Who Can Get Married in Denmark?
- Both partners must be 18 or older
- Both must be unmarried at the time of the new marriage
- If either has been married before — a divorce decree or death certificate of the previous spouse is required
- Marriage between close relatives is prohibited
- Pro forma (sham) marriages are prohibited — the Danish authorities may ask about the circumstances of the relationship
Nationality and country of residence requirements are flexible. A couple can hold any citizenship. One important condition: at least one partner must hold a valid residence permit for Denmark or another EU/Schengen country, or enter Denmark on a Schengen or national visa.
Documents Required to Get Married in Denmark
Documents everyone needs
- Valid passport — at least 3 months’ validity after the wedding date, at least 2 blank pages; or an EU ID card
- Declaration of Truth — an official form both partners must sign, confirming that all application information is accurate
- Proof of residence — bank statement, rental agreement, or similar document not older than 6 months
- Marriage application through the AFL (Familieretshuset — Danish Agency of Family Law)
- Application fee — from 1 January 2026, the fee is DKK 2,100 (approximately €280)
Additional documents (if applicable)
- Divorce decree or death certificate — if either partner was previously married
- Birth certificates of any shared children
- Declaration under Section 11b of the Danish Marriage Act — if one partner is a Danish citizen or resident
- Relationship evidence — photos together, message history, proof of cohabitation
The Marriage Process in Denmark: Step by Step
Step 1: document preparation and AFL submission
All documents are submitted to the Familieretshuset (AFL). VisaV.pl collects and verifies the package, then submits the application on the couple’s behalf via a signed Power of Attorney.
Step 2: AFL approval — typically 5 working days
With a correctly prepared application, the AFL approves it and issues a prøvelsesattest — a certificate confirming readiness to marry. This document is valid for several months and authorises the ceremony.
Step 3: travelling to Denmark and the ceremony
The ceremony takes place at a town hall or another authorised venue. Two witnesses are required — VisaV.pl helps arrange them if needed. The ceremony lasts approximately 30 minutes and can be conducted in Danish, English, or German.
Step 4: marriage certificate immediately after the ceremony
Directly after signing, the couple receives two original marriage certificates — in five languages. No waiting, no follow-up appointments.
Step 5: apostille and registration at home
For use in Poland, Ukraine, or another country, the certificate needs an apostille stamp from the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs Legalisation Office. Processing takes 7–10 working days. With the apostille and translation, the document is then registered at the local civil registry office.
Timeline and Costs
- AFL approval — approximately 5 working days with a correct application
- Booking the ceremony date at a town hall — from 2 weeks
- Total timeline from start to ceremony — typically 2 to 4 weeks
- AFL application fee — DKK 2,100 (approximately €280)
- Simple civil ceremony at a town hall — from €780 including organiser services
Is a Danish Marriage Recognised in Poland?
Yes. Poland recognises foreign marriages concluded in accordance with the legislation of the country of registration. After receiving the Danish certificate with an apostille and a sworn translation into Polish, the marriage is registered at the Polish USC. Following registration, the couple has all rights arising from marriage under Polish law — including the right to apply for a residence card through family reunification.
Alternatives to Denmark: Other Options From VisaV.pl
- Online marriage through the USA (Utah) — 1–2 days, from home, via Zoom. Ideal when travel isn’t an option
- Marriage in Georgia — 1–2 days in Tbilisi, minimal documents, romantic trip
- Marriage in Cyprus — 1 day, sea, sunshine, picturesque venues
- Wedding in Poland — through the Polish USC, takes 3 to 6 months but produces a directly Polish document
