Copenhagen to Refund Wedding fees After Legal Review – What This Means for You
Copenhagen is set to refund approximately 23 million kroner (roughly $3.3 million USD) to over 12,000 couples who where charged fees for getting married in the city since 2018. This follows a recent legal review revealing the municipality was improperly collecting these charges. Here’s a breakdown of the situation,what led to it,and what it means for both residents and visitors planning their special day.
the Issue: Illegal Wedding Fees
For years, Copenhagen municipality charged couples up to 4,500 kroner (around $650 USD) to marry at City Hall (Rådhuset) during peak times or at approved outdoor locations. However, Danish law only permits these fees when a couple specifically requests a ceremony outside of City hall and that request incurs additional costs for the municipality.
Essentially, if you chose a standard City Hall wedding, you shouldn’t have been charged.The legal review confirmed this practice was not in line with the law.
Why Now? And What’s the Fallout?
The issue came to light thru internal reviews and public scrutiny. While the municipality now acknowledges the error, the financial implications are significant. The refund process itself will be costly, and the decision to halt fee collection is already sparking debate.
financial Strain: The 23 million kroner refund will come from outside the city’s existing budget.
potential for Longer Wait Times: City Councillor Niels Peder Ravn (Conservative party) expressed concern that eliminating fees will increase demand for City Hall weddings, leading to longer waiting lists for residents.
Calls for Legislative Change: Several councillors, including Ravn and Louise Theilade Thomsen (Liberal party), are advocating for a change in the law to allow the municipality to legally charge fees, particularly given Copenhagen’s popularity as a wedding destination.
Why is Copenhagen a Popular Wedding Spot?
Copenhagen has become increasingly attractive to international couples for several reasons. Denmark offers a relatively straightforward legal process for foreign couples compared to many other countries. Plus, the city’s charm, design aesthetic, and romantic atmosphere make it an appealing location. You can learn more about why couples choose Denmark here.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you were married in Copenhagen between 2018 and now: You are likely eligible for a refund. The municipality has not yet announced the exact process for claiming your refund, but details will be forthcoming. Keep an eye on the Copenhagen municipality website for updates.
If you are planning a wedding in Copenhagen:
City Hall Weddings: Expect potentially longer wait times for booking a ceremony at City Hall.
Outdoor Locations: If you choose a location outside City Hall, be prepared for potential costs if those locations incur extra expenses for the municipality.
Stay Informed: Monitor the Copenhagen Municipality website for any changes to wedding policies or fee structures.
A Balancing Act: Tourism vs.Resident Access
The debate highlights a common challenge for popular cities: balancing the economic benefits of tourism with the needs of local residents. Councillor Thomsen succinctly put it: “It’s lovely that there is a load of foreign tourists who wont to come here and get married. But Copenhagen Municipality’s duty is first and foremost to ensure that Copenhageners can get married.”
Mia Nyegaard (Social Liberals), a senior official on the culture and leisure committee, acknowledged the “very regrettable and unfortunate” illegal practice and the financial challenges the change presents. A long-term solution is still being discussed.
This situation underscores the importance of clear legal frameworks and transparent municipal practices. As copenhagen navigates this issue, the goal will be to find a sustainable solution that respects both the law and the desires of couples seeking to celebrate their love in this gorgeous city.
Resources:
* [The Local Denmark – Article on wedding Fees](https://www.thelocal.dk/20240126/copenhagen-to-refund
