How do I get a Danish marriage license?

To obtain a Danish marriage license, you’ll need to follow these general steps:

1. Submit a Marriage Declaration:
   • Online: If you and your partner have MitID (Danish digital identity), the easiest way is to submit the application online through the Agency of Family Law’s digital platform.
   • In Person: If you don’t have MitID, you can submit the application in person at a designated office.
2. Provide Necessary Documents:
   • Proof of Identity: Valid passports or national IDs for both partners.
   • Certificate of Marital Status: This document proves that neither of you is currently married. You’ll need to obtain this from your respective countries of origin.
   • Potential Additional Documents: Depending on your individual circumstances, you may need to provide other documents, such as proof of residency in Denmark.
3. Pay the Application Fee: You’ll need to pay a fee to process your application.
4. Schedule a Marriage Ceremony: Once your application is approved, you can schedule your wedding ceremony with a registered officiant (e.g., a priest, a civil registrar).

For international couples

For international couples getting married in Denmark, the process generally involves these key steps:

1. Meeting the Basic Requirements:
   • Legal Entry and Stay: Both partners must be legally present in Denmark. This could be on a tourist visa, student visa, or other valid entry permit.  
   • Age of Majority: Both partners must be of legal age to marry (typically 18 years old).  
2. Gathering Necessary Documents:
   • Valid Passports: Essential for both partners.  
   • Certificates of Marital Status: This document, obtained from your home countries, proves that neither of you are currently married.
     • Important Note: These certificates may need to be apostilled or legalized for use in Denmark.
   • Potential Additional Documents: Depending on your individual circumstances, you may need to provide other documents, such as proof of residency in your home country.
3. Submitting the Marriage Declaration:
   • Online (if possible): If you and your partner have access to MitID (Danish digital identity), you can usually submit the application online through the Agency of Family Law’s digital platform.  
   • In Person: If online submission isn’t an option, you may need to submit the application in person at a designated office.
4. Scheduling the Ceremony: Once your application is approved, you can schedule your wedding ceremony with a registered officiant (e.g., a priest, a civil registrar).  

Key Considerations for International Couples:

• Legalization of Documents: Ensure that any documents obtained from your home countries are properly legalized (apostilled or authenticated) for use in Denmark. This often involves specific procedures in your home country.
• Language: While English is widely spoken in Denmark, it’s advisable to have important documents translated into Danish if necessary.  
• Residency Requirements (if applicable): Some specific situations may have residency requirements. Consult with the Agency of Family Law for the most accurate information.  
• Legal Guidance: Consider consulting with a lawyer, especially if you have complex legal situations, questions about residency requirements, or anticipate any potential legal challenges.

This information is for general guidance only. Always consult with the Agency of Family Law (familieretshuset.dk) or a qualified legal professional for the most accurate and up-to-date information on specific requirements and procedures for international couples getting married in Denmark.

Important Notes:

• Legal Requirements: Be sure to familiarize yourself with the specific legal requirements for marriage in Denmark. These may vary depending on your nationality and circumstances.
• Language: While English is widely spoken in Denmark, it’s always a good idea to have documents translated into Danish if necessary.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information:

• Visit the Official Website: The Agency of Family Law’s website is the best source for official information and procedures.
• Contact the Agency Directly: You can contact the Agency of Family Law directly with any questions you may have.

This information is for general guidance only and may not be entirely comprehensive. Always consult with the relevant authorities for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

How can a lawyer assist with the process?

A lawyer can be invaluable when obtaining a Danish marriage license, especially in more complex situations. Here’s how they can assist:

• Legal Guidance:
  • Navigating Complexities: If you or your partner have a complicated legal history (previous marriages, divorces, or other legal issues), a lawyer can help navigate the specific legal requirements and ensure all necessary documents are correctly obtained and submitted.
  • Understanding Legal Requirements: Danish marriage law can have nuances, particularly for international couples. A lawyer can provide expert advice on specific requirements related to nationality, residency status, and any potential legal obstacles.
• Document Assistance:
  • Obtaining Necessary Documents: Lawyers can assist in obtaining crucial documents like certificates of marital status from your countries of origin, ensuring they are properly translated and apostilled (if required).
  • Completing Legal Forms: They can help you accurately and completely fill out any necessary legal forms and applications.
• Legal Representation:
  • Addressing Potential Issues: If you encounter any legal challenges or objections to your marriage application, a lawyer can represent your interests and advocate for a successful outcome.
  • Resolving Disputes: In rare cases of legal disputes related to the marriage license, a lawyer can provide legal representation and guidance through the legal process.

When to Consider a Lawyer:

• International Marriages: If either you or your partner are not Danish citizens, a lawyer can provide valuable guidance on the specific legal requirements and procedures.
• Complex Legal Histories: If you or your partner have a history of previous marriages, divorces, or other legal matters, a lawyer can ensure all legal requirements are met.

Potential Legal Obstacles: If you anticipate any potential legal challenges or objections to your marriage application, a lawyer can provide expert advice and representation.

---