Wedding Paperwork Process

Here are some useful starting points and Q&A regarding the steps that need to be taken before you get married in Iceland. Of course we´ll guide you through this process and make sure everything is correct and done correctly. So no worries! It looks more complex then it really is – promise!

  • You need to fill out an application form
    The form has to be carefully filled in, signed by both partners, and signed by two trustworthy persons who, by signing the form, vouch that there are no legal impediments to the planned marriage. Make sure they are over 18 years old.
  • Birth certificates
    Both partners need to submit a copy (no originals please) of their birth certificate, confirmed with notarisation (Notarius publicus).
  • Certificate of marital status
    Both partners need to submit an original copy of certificate of marital status issued by the relevant authority (source of truth) in their country or a search certificate of no records of marriage. If it is not possible to obtain certificate of marital status from a foreign authority it is required to provide confirmation from the relevant authority stating that it is not possible. This can be the most confusing document but together we´ll sort it out. Remember – if there´s will there´s a way!
    The certificate must be issued within 8 weeks prior to the exact wedding ceremony date.
    Please note that a declaration on the bridal pairs behalf about their marital status, is not a sufficient document to proof marital status according to Icelandic law.
  • If bride and/or groom is divorced?
    In addition to a certificate of marital status a divorce decree, a document to prove that previous marriage has ended with a divorce, must be submitted. It is also necessary to prove that the division of assets and liabilities between the former spouses has been finalized. Original documents are not needed, only a copy.
  • If bride and/or groom is a widow/widower?
    In addition to a certificate of marital status an official document showing that the estate (assets and liabilities) of the deceased spouse has been finalized/divided, must be submitted. Original documents are not needed, only a copy.
  • Passports
    Both partners must submit a copy of the picture page of their passports confirmed with notarisation (Notarius publicus).
  • Examination of documents before wedding
    When all documents are ready you scan the documents to us and send via email, we preview them and make sure they will sail through the sheriffs office without any issues. When we are sure the documents fulfil the requirements above the bridal pair sends us the documents in a safe way (DHL, Fedex, UPS or similar)  and we´ll handle the paperwork from that point on the bridal pairs behalf and get necessary stamping, before and after the wedding ceremony. The stamp from the sheriffs office is called “certificate of examination” and is a stamp on the application form that you filled out. This certificate of examination is necessary to be able to get married in Iceland and is in short your permission to get married in Iceland. The certificate of examination is valid for 30 days.
  • Fee for examination, marriage certificate (one copy) and apostille stamping
    These fees are included in our service fees so you don´t have to worry about it. Please let us know if you need more then one copy of your marriage certificate.When do we receive our marriage certificate?
  • In Iceland the paperwork is finalised after the wedding ceremony so don´t panic although you don´t receive your certificate on your wedding day. This process can take 4-12 weeks depending on various reasons. But we guarantee you´ll receive a legal internationally recognised marriage certificate!How do we receive our certificate?
  • We send the marriage certificate when ready via email in pdf and when fully stamped with tracked mail through the Icelandic post office. If you prefer any other way please let us know. Additional cost may apply.
  • What´s our fee for the paperwork handling service and what´s included?
    Included in the paperwork guidance and handling is all necessary assistance with the paperwork, both before and after the wedding ceremony, guaranteed marriage certificate from the Registration of Iceland and the certificate cost, Ministry of foreign affairs apostille stamping cost and tracked postal cost as specified above. For further information regarding our various service and fees don´t hesitate to contact us by emailing us at legaliceland@legaliceland.com – We´ll answer you within 24 hours!Looking forward to hearing from you! The dream wedding adventure is only one email away …