How to Register a Same-Sex Marriage in Denmark: Step-by-Step Guide
Denmark is one of the most progressive countries in Europe when it comes to equality. Same-sex marriages have been legal here for over 10 years, making Denmark especially attractive for LGBT couples seeking to formalize their relationship in a legally safe, respectful, and inclusive environment.
Statistics: The Situation in Numbers
- In 1989, Denmark became the first country in the world to legalize registered partnerships for same-sex couples.
- Since June 15, 2012, same-sex marriages have been fully equal to heterosexual marriages — including the right to church ceremonies and full legal protection.
- From 2012 to 2022, approximately 4,000 same-sex marriages were registered in Denmark.
- Such marriages account for around 1–2% of all marriages each year.
- Same-sex weddings take place across the entire country — not only in Copenhagen or other large cities.
Benefits of a Same-Sex Marriage in Denmark
- Clear laws and fast processing
Denmark offers transparent regulations and fast processing — typically within 7 to 14 working days if all documents are in order. - Respect, safety, and equality
Municipal and government authorities treat same-sex couples with full respect. Denmark is one of the few countries where equality is not only on paper but also in practice. - Recognition abroad
Marriages registered in Denmark are recognized in many countries worldwide — even in some where same-sex marriage is not performed. - Suitable for international couples
Ideal for couples where at least one partner is not an EU citizen. No residence in Denmark is required, and the process is straightforward and clear.
What Documents Are Required?
There is no universal list — requirements vary depending on your country of origin, citizenship, and personal circumstances.
To find out exactly what documents you need, simply fill out our short online form. It takes less than a minute, and we’ll immediately guide you on your next steps.
The registration process is simple and quick. Here’s how it works:
- Preparing and Submitting Documents
Gather the required documents. Submission can be done either directly to the Danish Family Law Agency or through an assisting agency. - Waiting for a Decision
The agency reviews your application within 5–10 working days. Once approved, your case is forwarded to the registry office. - Choosing a Date and Location
You select the city and date for the wedding. Popular destinations include Copenhagen, Odense, Tønder, Ærø, and others. Both official and ceremonial weddings are possible. - Marriage Ceremony
Takes place at the city hall in Danish or English. An interpreter can be arranged if needed. The atmosphere may be official or celebratory. - Marriage Certificate
You will receive an international certificate in five languages: Danish, English, German, French, and Spanish.
DO YOU NEED A CONSULTATION?
How Long Does the Process Take?
- Document preparation: 1–3 days
- Application approval: 5–10 working days
- Marriage registration: 1–2 days after approval
- Total time: Ideally 10 to 14 days
Cost of a Same-Sex Marriage
- Government fee: €282
- Bineli agency services: from €749 (depending on the selected service package)
- Optional (upon request): translation, apostille, transport, support, photography
We offer flexible rates, transfer services, and a personalized approach for every client.
Questions and Answers
Ceremonies are conducted in Danish or English, depending on the municipality. If needed, a professional interpreter can be arranged.
You choose the city yourself. Popular locations for same-sex and LGBT marriage registration include: Copenhagen, Odense, Aalborg, Ribe, Tønder, and Ærø. You can have your ceremony by the sea or in a charming historic town hall. It all depends on your preferences.
In which countries is same-sex marriage legal?Same-sex and LGBT marriages are officially legal in more than 40 countries worldwide, including:
- 🇩🇰 Denmark
- 🇩🇪 Germany
- 🇫🇷 France
- 🇪🇸 Spain
- 🇳🇱 Netherlands
- 🇧🇪 Belgium
- 🇺🇸 United States
- 🇨🇦 Canada
- 🇲🇽 Mexico
- 🇦🇷 Argentina
- 🇦🇺 Australia
- 🇿🇦 South Africa
- 🇹🇼 Taiwan
- 🇲🇹 Malta
- 🇨🇱 Chile
- 🇺🇾 Uruguay
- 🇨🇴 Colombia
- 🇨🇷 Costa Rica
- 🇸🇮 Slovenia
- 🇨🇭 Switzerland
- 🇮🇹 Italy (limited recognition)
- 🇨🇿 Czech Republic (legalization in progress)
If same-sex marriage is not allowed in your country, you can still register your official union in Denmark. We’ll guide you to ensure the process is smooth and legal.
Same-sex marriages in Denmark have exactly the same legal status as marriages between a man and a woman. Since legalization in 2012, all marital rights and responsibilities for LGBT couples have been fully equalized.
What does this mean in practice?Partners in a same-sex marriage have the right to:
- Joint property ownership
- Inheritance rights
- Residence permits through marriage (for international couples)
- Making medical decisions for a spouse
- Joint parenting and legal custody of children
- Family-related tax benefits and social protections
- International recognition of the marriage
Legally, there is no difference between same-sex and opposite-sex marriages.
No, permanent residence in Denmark is not required. One of the key benefits of marrying in Denmark is that the procedure is available even with a short-term Category C (Schengen) tourist visa.
The main condition is that both partners must be legally present in the Schengen Area both when applying and on the day of the ceremony. That means if you enter Denmark from Germany, France, or any other Schengen country with a valid visa or visa-free access, you are fully entitled to get married.
This flexible approach makes Denmark one of the most convenient and accessible countries for same-sex and LGBT couples from around the world.
