When you’re an international couple, marriage paperwork can be exhausting. Many choose Denmark because it’s fast, modern, and efficient. But the process can still be tricky when handled alone. Below, we answer the most common questions couples ask before deciding whether to go DIY or use an agency like Easy Weddings Denmark.

Q: Why do so many international couples pick Denmark?

Because it’s straightforward compared to many other countries. The Danish system is friendly to cross-national couples and same-sex couples. There’s no need for long interviews, embassy visits, or months of waiting. Most ceremonies take place in historic city halls like Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, or Tønder, and you receive your legal international marriage certificate right after.

Q: Is it really possible to apply on your own?

Yes, it’s possible, but it’s not always smooth. Some couples manage on their own, but many others get delayed because one small mistake can send the application to the bottom of the pile at the Agency of Family Law (AFL).

If you apply yourself and the AFL asks for extra documents or clarification, your case is paused. The next response can take anywhere from three to six months. That’s a long wait if your visa or travel plans are time-sensitive.

Q: What makes the application tricky?

The AFL asks for very specific details. For example:

• Every page of both passports, including blank ones

• Residence permits, IDs, and sometimes driver’s licenses

• Proof of relationship such as messages, photos, or joint lease

• Clear high-resolution scans that fit their file-size limit

If any image is blurry or missing, the system automatically flags your application. The AFL doesn’t tell you exactly what’s wrong; they just send a general request for more documentation.

Q: What happens if I make a mistake in the form?

Misunderstanding one question is enough to delay your case. The application wording can be confusing, especially when translating from Danish to English or German. The AFL won’t correct you; they’ll just put your file on hold.

At Easy Weddings Denmark, our team reviews your entire application before it’s submitted. We know which answers often trigger unnecessary follow-ups, and we prepare your documents so approval usually comes on the first try.

Q: Does the AFL refund the fee if the application is rejected?

No. The application fee is 282 euros as of January 2025, and it’s non-refundable. Even if your case is denied for something small, the fee is lost. That’s one of the main reasons couples prefer using an agency. We make sure your documents are right from the start.

Q: What about overstays or visa issues?

The AFL checks all passport stamps carefully. If there’s an overstay in any country within the Schengen area, it can lead to a rejection. We always help couples review their stamps and entry dates in advance so they can avoid surprises. It’s an easy fix before applying but difficult afterward.

Q: How long is the approval valid?

Once approved, your AFL authorization is valid for four months. But if your visa or residence permit expires earlier, that validity period shortens automatically. For example, if your visa ends in two months, your approval also ends then. We always calculate these timeframes before submission so couples don’t lose their approval window.

Q: What happens after approval?

You choose a town hall (kommune) when applying. The AFL sends them your approval, and only then can you contact the town hall to book your ceremony. Some town halls respond slowly or are fully booked months ahead.

Easy Weddings Denmark handles all this for you. We have direct contacts in the most popular town halls and can often arrange earlier dates, private registrars, or even outdoor ceremonies in beautiful public spots.

Q: Can I just call the AFL if I have questions?

Not really. They have a phone number, but they won’t discuss specific cases. Their staff will just tell you to wait for an email reply. Many couples underestimate how frustrating that can be when time is short. Working with an agency means you don’t have to chase answers. We handle communication directly and know how to interpret their messages.

Q: What’s it like on the wedding day itself?

Even if the ceremony lasts just a few minutes, it’s emotional. Most couples expect a quick formality but end up tearing up when the officiant speaks. You’ll sign, exchange rings if you wish, and receive your international marriage certificate immediately.

We always remind couples to treat it as their real wedding day. Bring nice clothes, take photos, enjoy the city, and celebrate together. It’s a day you’ll always connect with Denmark.

Q: Is it cheaper to do it yourself?

If everything goes perfectly, yes, you’ll save the agency fee. But if anything goes wrong, it can cost more in the long run. Re-applying, resending documents, booking new flights, or waiting months can easily become more expensive and stressful.

Our standard package already includes:

• Application fee

• Witnesses if needed

• Document review

• Full coordination with AFL and town halls

• Personal assistance by email, phone, or WhatsApp

• Optional photo or video add-ons

You can relax knowing every step is covered.

Q: What if I’m in a hurry to get married?

That’s where we come in. Some couples wait months after applying alone. With our help, many are approved and married within two weeks. We prepare the entire application, handle follow-ups, and contact multiple town halls at once to find the earliest available date.

Q: Why not just get married in the U.S.?

It’s possible, but the certificate will need legalization (apostille) to be valid in Europe. You’ll have to visit several offices to finalize the paperwork. Denmark’s certificates are already accepted across the EU with no extra legalization steps needed.

Q: So, is Denmark really the easiest place to marry?

Yes, when you know what you’re doing. And that’s the key difference. The process can be simple, but only if every document, date, and detail aligns. That’s why agencies like Easy Weddings Denmark exist: to make it easy for real, not just in theory.

Final thoughts

Whether you’re an American marrying an EU citizen, two expats living in Europe, or a couple from outside the EU, Denmark offers one of the fastest, most romantic, and internationally recognized ways to get married.

Doing it alone is possible, but it comes with risk. Working with Easy Weddings Denmark gives you a smooth, guided process from start to finish so your focus stays on the moment, not the paperwork.