Your Iceland Marriage Checklist: A Step-by-Step Guide for Foreigners

Why Iceland? A Quick Love Note

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about why Iceland is so special. Imagine exchanging vows in front of Seljalandsfoss waterfall, under the midnight sun, or even during a snowy aurora chase. Iceland doesn’t just offer stunning scenery—it’s also progressive, with no residency requirements and full marriage equality (same-sex marriages have been legal since 2010). Plus, your Icelandic marriage certificate is recognized worldwide. Convinced yet? Let’s get to the how-to.

The Basics: Can Foreigners Tie the Knot Here?

Yes, foreigners can legally marry in Iceland—no need to be a citizen or resident. You just have to follow a straightforward process set by the Icelandic government. Both partners need to be at least 18 years old, not currently married, and able to provide a few key documents. Whether you’re from the U.S., Europe, Australia, or anywhere else, Iceland’s doors are open to your love story.

The Paperwork: What You’ll Need

Here’s where the planning starts. Iceland requires some standard documents to ensure your marriage is legit. Don’t worry—it’s not as daunting as it sounds, but you’ll want to start gathering these at least a couple of months ahead:

• Marriage Notification Form (Hjónavígsluskýrsla): This is the official form from Iceland’s District Commissioner. You’ll fill it out with your details, and two witnesses (over 18) need to sign it too—they don’t have to be at the wedding, so friends or family back home can help. You can often get this form from your wedding planner or directly from the government website.
• Birth Certificates: Original or notarized copies for both of you. These get returned after the ceremony, so no worries about losing them.
• Certificate of Marital Status: This proves you’re single and free to marry. It must be issued within 8 weeks of your wedding date. If your country doesn’t provide one (like the U.S.), a sworn affidavit or "Certificate of No Record of Marriage" usually works—just check with your local authorities and the Icelandic District Commissioner to confirm.
• Divorce or Death Certificates (if applicable): If either of you was previously married, bring proof the marriage ended—divorce papers or a death certificate showing the estate is settled.
• Valid Passports: To show you’re legally in Iceland. Depending on your nationality, you might also need a visa, but many countries (like the U.S., Canada, and EU nations) don’t require one for short stays.
• Proof of Legal Stay: This could be your passport stamps, plane tickets, or visa—just something to show you’re not overstaying your welcome.

Pro tip: If your documents aren’t in English or a Scandinavian language, you might need a certified translation. Double-check with the District Commissioner’s office to avoid hiccups.

The Legal Steps: How It All Comes Together

Once you’ve got your paperwork, here’s the step-by-step to make it official:

1. Submit Early: Send your documents to the National Registry Office in Reykjavík (or the District Commissioner’s office for your wedding location) at least 3 weeks before your big day. Email scans first, then mail or deliver originals no later than 5 days before the ceremony. Sending them earlier—like 6-8 weeks out—gives you buffer time if anything’s missing.
2. Pick an Officiant: You need a licensed Icelandic officiant for a legal wedding. Options include civil officiants (like a District Commissioner), humanist celebrants, or even Nordic Pagan chieftains if you’re feeling adventurous. Religious officiants work too, if that’s your vibe. Your planner can connect you, or contact the office directly at gifting@syslumenn.is.
3. Ceremony Day: Your officiant will handle the legal bits during the wedding—signing the Marriage Notification Form and making it official. You can get married anywhere in Iceland (with landowner permission for private spots), from a Reykjavík office to a remote glacier.
4. Get Your Certificate: After the ceremony, your marriage is registered, and you can request a certificate (often available in English for foreigners). It’s not fancy, but it’s yours!

Timelines: Plan Ahead

Timing is key. Start gathering documents 2-3 months out, especially if you need to request birth certificates or marital status papers. Submit everything 3-6 weeks before your wedding, and arrive in Iceland at least 5 days early if you’re delivering originals yourself. For a stress-free trip, aim for a week in-country—plenty of time for legal stuff and exploring.

Costs: What to Budget

A basic civil ceremony at a District Commissioner’s office runs about 11,000 ISK. Outside the office, fees vary—starting at 47,000 ISK plus hourly rates if the officiant travels. Add in travel, accommodations, and extras like photography, and your elopement could range from a few thousand dollars up, depending on how fancy you go.

Why It’s Worth It—and How We’ll Help

Getting married in Iceland might take some paperwork shuffling, but the payoff is unreal. You’ll have a story no one else can top, plus photos that’ll make everyone jealous. To make it even easier, we’ve put together a downloadable checklist of all the documents and deadlines you’ll need. Just click the button below to grab it, print it, and check off each step as you go. No guesswork, no stress—just you, your partner, and Iceland’s magic.

So, can foreigners get married in Iceland? Yep, and it’s more doable than you might think. With a little prep, you’ll be exchanging vows in one of the world’s most epic places. Got questions? Drop them below, and let’s get your Icelandic love adventure started!