Marrying in Denmark as a non-EU couple.

Denmark is open to non-EU couples and binational couples. The application is the same as for EU couples in structure, but two areas usually need more attention: the legalisation status of your foreign documents, and proof of legal entry into Denmark for the wedding.

Legal stay rules from 10 April 2026

Familieretshuset states that new rules apply from 10 April 2026 for how non-EU citizens must document legal residence in the Schengen Area when applying for a Certificate of Marital Status. Treat this as an application requirement, not a wedding-day afterthought.

Apostille vs. legalisation

If your documents come from a country party to the Hague Apostille Convention, you'll need an apostille. If they come from a country that isn't, you'll need full diplomatic legalisation, typically the issuing country's foreign ministry plus the Danish embassy or consulate in that country. This is a multi-step process that can take weeks to months. Start it early.

Proof of legal stay

Non-EU partners typically need to demonstrate legal entry and stay in Denmark separately from the marriage application. For Schengen-visa-waiver nationals, this may include Schengen entry documentation; for visa nationals, it may include the relevant visa or residence document.

What we don't do

We do not provide visa, immigration, or residence-permit advice. If your case has a complex immigration angle, consult a qualified immigration lawyer or your country's Danish embassy in parallel. Our scope is the marriage application itself.

How we help

We work through your document situation, identify what needs apostille versus full legalisation, and review your application before submission to Familieretshuset. Run the Document Checker first.