Getting married in Denmark, including same-sex marriage, is a relatively straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide, including information on the legalization of your marriage in your home country:
Step 1: Ensure You Meet the General Requirements
To get married in Denmark, you and your partner must meet the general legal requirements for marriage. These typically include being of legal age (usually 18), not being closely related, and not being currently married to someone else.
Step 2: Choose a Wedding Location
Decide on the location where you want to get married in Denmark. Denmark offers a variety of beautiful venues, including city halls, castles, and scenic outdoor locations.
Step 3: Contact the Local Municipality in Denmark
Reach out to the municipality (city or town) in Denmark where you plan to marry. You can often find contact information and relevant details on the municipality’s website. Discuss your plans, book a wedding date, and inquire about the specific requirements and documentation needed.
Step 4: Prepare the Required Documentation
Gather the necessary documents, which typically include:
Valid passports or national IDs for both partners.
Original or certified birth certificates for both partners.
A certificate of marital status (indicating your current single status or divorce, if applicable).
Documentation supporting your legal right to marry (if you’re not a Danish citizen or resident). This may include a certificate of no impediment or a certificate of legal capacity to marry.
Step 5: Complete the Wedding Application
Fill out the wedding application form provided by the local municipality. Provide details about your chosen witnesses and your preferred ceremony location.
Step 6: Attend the Civil Marriage Ceremony
On the agreed-upon wedding day, you and your partner will attend the civil marriage ceremony at the municipality. The ceremony is typically conducted in Danish or English. You can exchange rings and vows during the ceremony.
Step 7: Receive Your Marriage Certificate
After the ceremony, you will receive a Danish marriage certificate. This document proves your legal marriage in Denmark and is essential for future legal proceedings and the recognition of your marriage in your home country.
Step 8: Legalization for Use in Your Home Country
Depending on the requirements of your home country, you may need to take additional steps to ensure the recognition of your Danish marriage certificate when you return home. These steps may include:
Translation: You might need to have your Danish marriage certificate translated into your home country’s language.
Notarization: You may need to have the translation and original documents notarized.
Apostille: Some countries require an apostille to verify the authenticity of the Danish marriage certificate. You can obtain an apostille from the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Step 9: Consult Your Home Country’s Authorities
To ensure that your marriage in Denmark is recognized in your home country, contact your home country’s embassy or consulate in Denmark. They can provide guidance on the specific requirements and procedures for legalizing your marriage in your home country.
Remember that the exact requirements and processes can vary based on your nationality and residency status, so it’s crucial to consult with the municipality in Denmark where you intend to marry and your home country’s authorities for accurate and up-to-date information.
