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Marrying in Denmark as a UK couple.

Denmark is a common destination for UK couples for two reasons: the administrative process is simpler than in many UK boroughs, and there is no requirement to reside in Denmark. Post-Brexit, UK citizens are treated as non-EU citizens for the marriage application, which mainly affects the apostille requirement.

The apostille requirement

UK-issued documents, divorce decrees, civil-status certificates, death certificates from previous marriages, typically need an apostille from the FCDO Legalisation Office in the UK. Processing time is 1–4 weeks; budget more if you're applying close to a peak period.

The documents UK couples usually need

  • Passports of both partners.
  • Proof of legal stay in Denmark (your tourist entry is generally sufficient).
  • Apostilled divorce decree or death certificate if previously married.
  • Authorised translation into Danish, English, or German for any non-English documents.

Recognition back in the UK

Your Danish marriage is recognised in the UK without separate registration. The Danish marriage certificate is accepted by UK authorities. If you want a multilingual version (useful for travel or third-country use), request it at the time of the ceremony.

How we help

We map your documents against the apostille requirements, flag what needs FCDO legalisation, and review your application before it goes to Familieretshuset. Use the Document Checker for a personalised view, or contact us directly.

FAQ

Common questions from UK couples

Is a Danish marriage recognised in the UK?

Yes. A marriage legally concluded in Denmark is recognised in the UK without separate registration. Your Danish marriage certificate is accepted by UK authorities.

Do we need to do anything in the UK after the wedding?

No mandatory registration. Some couples present the Danish marriage certificate to their local council for name changes, pensions, or banking purposes. The certificate may need an apostille for some third-country uses but typically not for use within the UK itself.

What's the post-Brexit document situation?

UK citizens are treated as non-EU for the application. This usually means an apostille on UK-issued documents (divorce decrees, civil-status certificates), apostille is issued by the FCDO Legalisation Office, processing time 1–4 weeks.

Final approval rests with the Danish authorities (Familieretshuset). Fees, processing times and appointment availability may change.

Last verified: 2026-05