Why So Many German Couples Get Married in Denmark

Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting moments in life, but for many couples living in Germany, the bureaucratic process can quickly become overwhelming. Strict requirements and long waiting periods and complex documentation make it difficult for couples who simply want a legal and romantic start to their life together. This is one of the main reasons why Denmark has become such a popular wedding destination for especially German couples.

Compared to a lot of other countries, Denmark is efficient and welcoming environment for international couples who wish to get married. It is generally considered as one of the easiest places to get legally married, and its marriage certificates are widely accepted, including in Germany. Whether you are a couple with different nationalities or simply looking for a faster way to get married, Denmark has everything you need for a smooth and memorable wedding experience.

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Is it legal to get married in Denmark as a foreigner?

Yes, getting married in Denmark as a foreigner is completely legal. Denmark has established a clear and transparent legal framework that makes it possible for non-residents and non-citizens to marry within the country. As a result, thousands of international couples choose to go to Denmark each year to get married at one of their many town halls.

When you get married in Denmark, you receive a Danish marriage certificate that is valid not only in Denmark but also internationally. For German couples, this certificate is fully recognized by the German authorities. In some cases, an Apostille stamp may be required to authenticate the certificate for use in Germany. This is a form of legalisation that confirms the document’s validity, and it can easily be obtained through the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. s. 

If you choose a wedding agency to help you with the process, the agency usually help you with this as a part of their services. 

Can I get married fast as a German in Denmark?

Yes, it is possible to get married quickly in Denmark. In fact, speed and efficiency are two of the main reasons why so many German couples choose to marry there. Unlike Germany, where marriage applications can take weeks or even months to process, Danish authorities typically approve applications within a few working days, provided all required documents are submitted correctly.

At Wedding Planner Denmark, we assist couples every day who wish to marry quickly and without unnecessary delays. We offer express packages that simplify the process even further. For example, our Copenhagen Express Service helps couples avoid waiting for a registrar at the Copenhagen City Hall by offering direct coordination and full handling of the process, including the Apostille stamp. We also offer an Express Service for other town halls across Denmark, which is ideal for couples who want a fast-track experience regardless of the location.

It all begins with your application to the Danish Agency of Family Law, known as Familieretshuset. Once approved, you can book your wedding date immediately. This process is not only fast but also flexible, allowing you to plan your celebration in a way that suits your personal wishes and schedule.

Easy access from Germany by car or plane

Another significant advantage of getting married in Denmark is how easy it is to travel there from Germany. Whether you prefer to drive across the border, take a short flight, or even combine both with a ferry, Denmark offers convenient access from every part of Germany.

For couples living in northern Germany, driving is the simplest and most flexible option. Cities like Hamburg, Lübeck, and Kiel are within easy reach of several Danish towns that offer wedding ceremonies. For example, Tønder Town Hall is just a short drive across the border and is one of the most popular choices for same-day weddings. Esbjerg Town Hall and Ribe Old Town Hall are also within a few hours’ drive and offer charming settings for your ceremony.

If you are coming from farther away, such as Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt or Düsseldorf, flying may be the more practical choice. Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen, is well connected to all major German airports, and the flight time is usually between one and one and a half hours. Once you arrive at Copenhagen Airport, it is only a short ride to the city center and the famous Copenhagen City Hall, where many international couples choose to marry.

In some cases, couples combine driving and sailing. For instance, you can drive to the ferry terminal in Germany and take a short ferry ride to Denmark if you want to go to Copenhagen. This option is ideal for couples who want to explore more scenic and remote parts of the country as part of their wedding trip.

Whether you prefer to get married as near to Germany as possible or in one of the bigger cities, there are plenty of options for you. 

Which town halls are best for German couples?

Denmark offers a wide variety of wedding venues depending on your travel plans and preferences. Some couples prefer to cross the border and marry quickly, while others wish to enjoy a full wedding weekend or even combine their wedding with a honeymoon.

For couples who want a fast and simple ceremony, town halls near the German border are ideal. Tønder is one of the closest options and is known for its warm welcome and fast service. Esbjerg and Ribe are slightly further but offer beautiful historic settings and are great for couples who want something more unique. Ærø, although it requires a short ferry ride, is especially popular for its romantic charm and picturesque views.

On the other hand, couples flying into Denmark or looking for a city wedding experience often choose Copenhagen or Frederiksberg. Both city halls offer elegant ceremony rooms, experienced staff, and a modern, international atmosphere. In Copenhagen, the location is perfect for photos, celebrations, and sightseeing and generally enjoying everything the Danish capital has to offer. Ceremonies at all town halls are conducted in English, and at most locations, they can also be conducted in German.

No matter which location you choose, the legal process remains the same. The key is to select a town hall that fits your needs, whether you are looking for convenience, charm, or a combination of both.

Which documents do German couples need to get married in Denmark?

Getting married in Denmark is known for being simple, but German couples still need to prepare a few key documents. Typically, you’ll need valid passports or ID cards, a certificate of marital status (Ledigkeitsbescheinigung), and — in some cases — proof of residence or previous divorce papers. These documents must be submitted to the Danish Agency of Family Law for approval before you can book your ceremony.

Once your application is approved, you’ll need to bring the original documents to the town hall for final verification. Some town halls require you to show up the day before the ceremony, while others only ask you to arrive around 20 minutes before your scheduled time. The requirements vary, so your wedding planner will guide you through what’s needed at your chosen location.

If you plan to register your marriage in Germany, you may also need an Apostille stamp on your Danish marriage certificate. This confirms that the certificate is legally valid abroad and is often required for name changes, visa applications, or updating your marital status in Germany. At Wedding Planner Denmark, we can help arrange the Apostille as of our Apostille service or other wedding packages. 

A quick ceremony or a longer stay?

For most German couples getting married in Denmark, they enjoy the flexibility Denmark has to offer. Some couples prefer to arrive in the morning, get married in the afternoon, and return to Germany the same evening. This is entirely possible, especially when choosing a town hall close to the border, but also if you arrive by plane. 

Other couples take the opportunity to turn their wedding into a longer romantic getaway. Denmark offers beautiful landscapes, cozy hotels, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it perfect for a weekend break or a short honeymoon. Whether you want to enjoy a quiet walk by the sea, explore charming Danish villages, or dine in a nice restaurant in Copenhagen, the country has something for everyone.

Combining your wedding with a holiday not only adds to the experience but also allows you to celebrate in a more meaningful and memorable way. You can relax, take your time, and enjoy every moment of your special day.

Let's plan your wedding in Denmark

Planning a wedding abroad can be challenging, but with the right guidance, it doesn’t have to be difficult. At Wedding Planner Denmark, we have helped hundreds of German couples navigate the Danish marriage system quickly and legally. We speak both English and German so you can feel comfortable throughout the entire process.

We handle everything from helping prepare the required documents and submission of your application to booking your ceremony and providing the legalizations you need for recognition back home. We offer services in both English and German and are here to ensure that your wedding in Denmark goes smoothly from start to finish. We have made it easy for you to plan your wedding in Denmark with our comprehensive guide on the process of getting married with Wedding Planner Denmark. 

Whether you are planning a last-minute trip across the border or organizing a destination wedding in the heart of Copenhagen, we are here to assist you every step of the way. Contact us to get started.