This guide sets out the legal steps for a couple who want to marry or elope in Iceland, from who can marry to the documents and the ceremony.

Who can marry in Iceland

Under Icelandic law, neither of the couple may be a descendant of the other.

Neither of the couple may be siblings.

Both parties must have reached the age of 18 to marry in Iceland.

Both parties must be legally competent.

A former marriage must be formally ended by divorce.

People who are only separated cannot marry.

The documents you need

Along with the Marriage Notification form, both parties must submit a birth certificate.

Both parties must submit a certificate of marital status.

Both parties must produce identification such as a passport, driving licence or ID card.

An applicant who does not have legal residence in Iceland must submit a certificate of marital status from the country where their legal address is registered.

If a person has been married before, additional documents such as divorce papers must be submitted.

The certificate and the ceremony

Before two people can marry, the District Commissioner examines whether the conditions for marriage are met.

The District Commissioner issues a certificate of no impediment.

The couple must deliver the certificate of no impediment to the person performing the ceremony before the ceremony takes place.

Information about the estimated date of marriage is not an appointment.

The couple must contact the officiant directly to set the place and time of the ceremony.

Civil marriage ceremonies are performed by district commissioners.

Civil marriage ceremonies are performed by their legally trained representatives.

Church ceremonies are conducted by ministers of the National Church.

Church ceremonies are conducted by ministers of registered religious organisations.

Leaders of registered life stance organisations can also conduct ceremonies once certified by the district commissioner.

Planning the trip

Use the Packing List to help plan your trip.

Comparing Reykjavik tours

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