Validity of the marriage

In order to be granted family reunification with your spouse in Denmark, it is a requirement that your marriage or registered partnership can be recognised under Danish law.

A foreign marriage can be recognised in Denmark if it was entered into in accordance with the rules in the country where it took place, and if the circumstances surrounding the marriage do not violate fundamental Danish legal principles.

For example, it would violate Danish legal principles if the marriage was concluded without both parties being physically present - marriage by proxy - or if one or both parties were under the age of 15 at the time of the wedding. Marriage entered into under these circumstances would not be recognised under Danish law and consequently could not constitute the grounds for family reunification with a spouse.

If the Immigration Service decides that your marriage or registerede partnership cannot be recognised under Danish law, the Immigration Service will consider whether you and your spouse/partner meet the permanent cohabitation requirement for unmarried couples. Read more about permanent cohabitation.