Getting Married In Iceland

Getting Married in Iceland – Where?

So you decided you want to get married? More specifically you decided to get married in the Land of Ice and Fire. Where the Northern Lights can be seen dancing in the sky like they own the place. Volcanoes erupt like they care not about the laws of the land and snow dazzles your eyes with the whites of pure wonder. Iceland is nothing short of magical and it’s no wonder you chose this beautiful place to begin the journey of love together. 

The wonderful thing about Iceland is you never have to settle when it comes to your dream wedding. Whether you want to get married in a church or keep it close to nature, you can have your pick with Iceland’s never ending array of breathtaking landscapes. There are so many options to choose from. The beautiful Waterfalls, Dark Sandy Beach, Cliffs overlooking the sea and so many more. it can easily become overwhelming when you think about all the scenic places you could potentially perform your ceremony of eternal love. It’s also no wonder you decided the perfect place would be Iceland. It’s where the magic happens. 

So you know the “where” now it’s time to figure out the how? 

Getting Married in Iceland – How?

Before you can get married I’m sure you’re fully aware there are some things you need to know first. Well, you’re in the right place. Like other countries, Iceland has its own specific rules when it comes to tying the knot and those rules vary depending on where you’re from. Knowing the requirements that are to be met before you can officially get married in Iceland will save you a lot of trouble and can make the process as smooth and as stress-free as possible. So that you can focus on the more beautiful aspects of getting married. 

Here is a list of the requirements that need to be met before you can sail smoothly into starting your forever story:

1. You both must be 18 years or older to get married in Iceland and you will be required to show proof of this with documents such as a Birth Certificate.
2. You will need to fill out the Hjónavígsluskýrsla also known as Marriage Notification. This needs to be signed by both parties wishing to marry, as well as two witnesses.

• Original copies of your Birth Certificate or ones officially authorized will be accepted along with your marriage application form. Your documents can be picked up after the wedding.

3. Both partners must submit a certificate of marital status issued by the relevant authority in their country, state or region. This document may also be known as an Affidavit of Single Status or Declaration of Non-Impediment.This paperwork needs to be issued within 8 weeks prior to your wedding ceremony to be valid.

• If you have been married before then you must show documented proof of the divorce. 
• If you are a widower then you will have to provide a decree that the estate of the deceased has been finalized.

4. Proof of rights to be in Iceland e.g. plane ticket, stamp in your passport or visa. 
5. Valid Passports or in some cases Visas, from both the intended bride and groom. This is usually dependent on your country of origin. 
6. Once married you will receive your official Marriage Certificate and you can request that it be in English.

It is important to note that all documents must be submitted three weeks prior to the day of the wedding. Lastly, Documents that are not in English, Danish, Swedish or Norwegian need to be translated into English by a certified translator and notarised.

Due to the ongoing fight against Covid 19 it is good to be in the know. Any information that you may need in relation to current restrictions and traveling to and from Iceland can be found on the official website Covid.is.  

Now that you’re aware of the “How”, let’s dive into what to expect.

Getting Married in Iceland – What to Expect?

Besides being one of the most stunning destinations you could get married in. One of the most awesome things about Iceland is that same-sex marriages are legal. You can also get married in Iceland regardless of your religious background. So come one, come all because Iceland believes in the beauty of inclusivity!

I’m sure you’ve heard the saying “If you don’t like the weather, just wait 5 minutes!” No? Well if you heard it here first then that’s because Icelandic weather is so unpredictable. It can feel like you’re experiencing all the seasons in one day! It never really seems to remain constant and this can be a good and a bad thing. With all things considered when getting married it would be good to know what the forecast may be on that day, especially if you have plans to get married outdoors. Although you may have a general idea of what to expect that day, it could easily change in just a matter of minutes. Don’t let that deter you because once you prepare, you will be ready for whatever Icelandic weather decides to throw at you. 

Getting Married in Iceland – What to Wear?

You would be encouraged to take layers along with you in the event that the temperature drops. As well as gloves or additional footwear that can protect you from the cold. You can never go wrong with bringing more layers. It’s better to be able to remove anything that you no longer need than to be freezing cold on one of the most beautiful days of your life. Fortune favors the bold but it also favors the prepared. On your wedding day it’s good to be both. If you plan on hiking to any specific spot then it would be advisable to bring the necessary hiking tools and equipment to get you there and change once you’ve made it. Who said that getting married in Iceland wouldn’t be exciting?   

Getting Married in Iceland – Capture The Memories

Remember when I said Iceland is magical? Why not capture that magic on your wedding day and keep it with you forever? You can do just that with a local photographer. The best part about choosing a local photographer means you are working with someone who knows the ins and outs of Icelandic landscape. They’re able to get you the most stunning pictures, beyond your wildest imagination. 

You would be amazed at the beautiful moments you can capture when you work with someone who has an eye for the beauty of this land. If you’re even prepared to change locations your photographer would be able to provide you with some breathtaking options that will make your beautiful day even more so. They’re also able to take things into consideration that you may not have even thought of, and will go to lengths to ensure that the moments captured will steal your breath away.

Let’s say you want more than just capturing the moments that you say your vow and you are interested in a photoshoot. As one would be when they decide to get married in Iceland! Discuss with your photographer beforehand the theme you are interested in and they will be able to assist in making your dreams a reality. From the perfect selection of boquete style which your photographer can suggest, to the color scheme that is just the right combination to make your photos iconic. Your family and friends will love them and so will you! 

There may be other things to consider as well, such as a makeup artist and stylist. Like your photographer, it would be good to work with someone local as they understand what really helps to set the tone for an amazing photoshoot. One worthy of your oh-so-special day. Knowing you only get to experience a moment once means you want to capture it in the best light and hiring someone who can help you do that will leave you with no regrets. It would do wonders for you to collaborate with artists who can help you achieve exactly what you want. Then all you have to do is be you and be prepared for the gorgeous candid photos as well!

I hope this information has informed you about the necessary factors to consider when getting eloped in Iceland. Just like love, Iceland is nothing short of beauty and magic and I hope you get to experience it all on your wedding day!