Marriage in Iceland
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Icelandic Acts of the Althingi, statutory instruments, and official guidance. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
Iceland's marriage law is gender-neutral — same-sex marriage has been legal since June 2010.
- Minimum age: 18 — no exceptions.
- Monogamy required: You cannot marry while already married.
- Prohibited marriages: Close blood relatives (consanguinity rules apply).
Two forms of ceremony:
- Civil ceremonies: Performed by District Commissioners (Sýslumenn) and their legally trained representatives.
- Religious ceremonies: Performed by ministers of the National Church (Þjóðkirkjan), ministers of registered religious organisations, or leaders of registered life stance organisations — all must hold certification from the District Commissioner.
Registered cohabitation (sambúðarfélag) also carries legal recognition for property, custody, and other family law purposes.
When does it apply?
- You wish to marry in Iceland.
- Both parties must be at least 18 years old.
What to Do If You Want to Get Married in Iceland
- Apply for a marriage certificate at the District Commissioner (Sýslumaður).
- Provide required documentation: proof of identity, proof that you are not currently married, and birth certificates.
- Choose between a civil or religious ceremony.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't marry while already married — bigamy is prohibited.
- Don't skip the District Commissioner process — a ceremony without proper authorisation may not be legally valid.
Common Questions
Is same-sex marriage legal in Iceland?
Yes. Iceland's marriage law has been gender-neutral since June 2010 — same-sex couples have the same rights to marry as opposite-sex couples under the Marriage Act (Hjúskaparlög, Lög nr. 31/1993). Both civil ceremonies performed by District Commissioners and religious ceremonies by certified ministers carry equal legal weight.
What is the minimum marriage age in Iceland?
18, with no exceptions. Both parties must be at least 18 years old. You also cannot marry while already married — bigamy is prohibited. Marriages between close blood relatives are barred by consanguinity rules. Registered cohabitation (sambúðarfélag) also carries legal recognition for property, custody, and other family law purposes.
How do I get married in Iceland?
Apply for a marriage certificate at the District Commissioner (Sýslumaður). Provide proof of identity, proof that you are not currently married, and birth certificates. Then choose a civil ceremony (performed by District Commissioners) or a religious ceremony (performed by certified ministers of the National Church, a registered religious organisation, or a registered life stance organisation).
When does it apply — marriage?
You wish to marry in Iceland.Both parties must be at least 18 years old.
What should I do to legally get married in Iceland?
Apply for a marriage certificate at the District Commissioner (Sýslumaður).Provide required documentation: proof of identity, proof that you are not currently married, and birth certificates.Choose between a civil or religious ceremony.
What should you NOT do — marriage?
Don't marry while already married — bigamy is prohibited.Don't skip the District Commissioner process — a ceremony without proper authorisation may not be legally valid.