Copenhagen has been overcharging for marital ceremonies for an extended period.
In Copenhagen, Denmark, foreign couples planning civil marriages have faced overcharging since 2018 due to misunderstandings about costs and procedures. This issue, affecting around 12,000 couples, has led to a significant refund of approximately 23 million Danish Kroner (three million Euros).
Misunderstandings and Overcharging
The overcharging was a result of foreign couples encountering confusion regarding the costs and procedures for obtaining a civil marriage license. This confusion led to unnecessary expenses.
Procedural Issues
The process for obtaining a civil marriage license may have been unclear to some couples, further contributing to the overcharging.
Steps for Refunds
If a foreign couple believes they have been overcharged, they should follow these steps:
- Contact the Municipality: Reach out to the City of Copenhagen's Citizen Service (Borgerservice) or the local marriage office to discuss your situation. They can provide guidance on whether you have been overcharged and what steps to take next.
- Review Documentation: Gather all relevant documents related to your marriage ceremony, including receipts and any correspondence with the municipality.
- File a Complaint: If you believe you have been overcharged, submit a formal complaint to the relevant authorities. This could either be to the municipality or a consumer protection agency if applicable.
- Seek Legal Advice: If the issue is not resolved through the municipality, consider consulting with a legal professional to explore further options.
- Refund Process: If it is determined that you have been overcharged, the municipality may offer a refund. This process can vary depending on the specific circumstances and the policies in place at the time.
Additional Tips
- Research Thoroughly: Before planning a civil marriage in Copenhagen, thoroughly research the costs and procedures to avoid misunderstandings.
- Use Official Channels: Ensure that all interactions are with official entities to avoid scams or unauthorized agents who might charge extra fees.
Note: The specific procedures for refunds can change, so it is important to consult with local authorities for the most current information.
Denmark's relatively liberal regulations for marriages attract couples where one partner does not have a permanent residence permit or cannot meet the high requirements of German authorities. Many of the affected couples may have come from Germany.
The illegal practice was stopped in the spring of 2025 when it was discovered. The Culture Mayor of Copenhagen, Mia Nyegaard, stated that the error is "truly unfortunate and regrettable". Copenhagen City Hall recorded a record number of 8,000 civil marriages last year, with 5,000 of them involving foreigners.
The overcharging was confirmed by the Culture Department of Copenhagen City, and the refund of 23 million Danish Kroner is due to the overcharging of these 12,000 couples. Foreigners who want to get married in Germany must typically submit a certificate of capacity to marry, but this is not required in Denmark.
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