Your Guide to Getting Married in Iceland

Picture yourself exchanging vows in a quaint, historic Icelandic church or amidst the stunning landscape of moss-covered lava rocks with a distant glacier as your backdrop. Getting married in Iceland is an experience you’ll never forget. If you’ve dreamt of tying the knot in this Nordic country, keep reading to learn more about making your Iceland wedding a reality.

Can I Get Married in Iceland as a Foreigner?

Absolutely! If you’ve decided to tie the knot in the land of fire and ice, there’s nothing stopping you. US citizens do not need a visa to come to Iceland to get married. Furthermore, Icelandic authorities even issue an internationally recognised wedding certificate that is valid in the US.

As a foreigner, you will be required to follow legal marriage procedures, such as being over 18,  just like Icelandic citizens. You can have a licensed Icelandic celebrant perform your ceremony (which costs approximately 10,000 ISK/ 80 US $), bring your own celebrant, or declare your vows without someone leading the ceremony.

Legal Requirements for Getting Married in Iceland

Iceland is a stunning wedding destination. But before you step to the altar, you will need to complete certain legal requirements. 

1. Marriage Notification Form (Hjónavígsluskýrsla) - You and your partner will have to fill out and sign a Marriage Notification form that can be acquired from the District of Magistrate in Reykjavík. You will also need two other witnesses to sign the form.

2. Birth Certificates - You will need original or officially stamped copies of your birth certificates. They should be attached to the Marriage Notification Form.

3. Certificate of Marital Status - You will need a certificate confirming that you are not already married. If either of you are divorced or widowed, you will need documentation confirming the same. If your state does not issue a Certificate of Marital Status, you will need to get alternate documents such as an Affidavit of Single Status. The most important thing to bear in mind is that the documents need to be issued a minimum of eight weeks prior to your ceremony.

4. Valid Passport - You will need a valid passport to travel to and get married in Iceland. Non-US citizens must check any visa requirements before travel.

5. Legal Proof of Stay in Iceland -  You will need proof to show that you are staying in Iceland legally. This could be your airline tickets, the time stamps on your passport, or a visa.

You can learn more about the marriage laws in Iceland on the Icelandic Government’s website.

Same-Sex Marriages in Iceland 

Iceland is one of the top countries in the world for gay marriage. The Nordic country is renowned for its leading strides in gender equality. Be it their former prime minister, Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir, who got married to her lesbian partner after a law was passed affirming same-sex marriages in 2010, or any ordinary citizen, Iceland takes pride in treating everyone equally. 

One of Reykjavík’s biggest festivals is its annual pride parade held in August. Reykjavík Pride is a family-friendly festival and one of the largest in the country. Iceland’s desirability among gay couples has increased over the years due to its queer-friendly society. 

Do Iceland Weddings Require a Priest? 

A Lutheran priest is not the only legal officiant for getting married in Iceland. Pagan ceremonies have been on the rise in recent years. You can consult with your chieftain in advance about how you would like your ceremony to proceed. Typically, the ceremony area is blessed before reciting verses from the Edda Prose, after which the chieftain gives his speech. You will drink (typically mead, but can also be champagne or any drink of your choice) from a Viking horn, and say your vows holding a brass ring.

Best Time to Get Married in Iceland

You can get married in Iceland anytime. Each season has its charm, so ultimately, it depends on what you’re looking for. Twilight weddings take on a novel look under the Midnight Sun during Iceland’s summer. On the contrary, if the Northern lights are what you’re seeking, winter with its long nights would be a better fit for you. 

Learn more about Iceland in winter vs summer on our previous blog.

Getting married in Iceland offers an experience of a lifetime. Once you’ve sorted the legal requirements, the rest is a breeze. With Iceland's progressive stance on marriage equality, it's an inviting destination for all couples.

Our luxurious hotels, nestled in some of Iceland’s most breathtaking landscapes, could provide the perfect backdrop to your Icelandic wedding. Enjoy a comfortable stay at our premium accommodation during your most memorable Icelandic trip to date.