Copenhagen authorities may have to repay tens of millions of kroner after discovering the city illegally charged wedding fees to around 12,000 couples over seven years. Most affected couples were from outside Denmark without permanent residency in the country, with potential repayments reaching 23 million kroner (£2.7 million).
The city had been charging fees of up to 4,500 kroner for weddings at city hall during special time slots and at designated outdoor locations. However, Danish law only permits such fees if couples specifically request to marry outside city hall.
Wedding tourism is a major industry for Copenhagen, with about 5,000 international couples marrying there last year, spending approximately 120 million kroner according to the Danish Chamber of Commerce. Lars Ramme Nielsen of the Chamber called the situation “unfortunate,” noting how valuable these visitors are to local businesses while hoping for a resolution.
Some politicians are pushing to change the law to legally allow fees for non-Danish couples. Conservative politician Niels Peder Ravn, while pleased with Copenhagen’s popularity as a wedding destination, criticized the financial burden on taxpayers, calling it a “wedding scandal” that would reduce funding for local sports and cultural activities.
Copenhagen’s culture and leisure mayor Mia Nyegaard described the illegal practice (ongoing since 2018 until its discovery earlier this year) as “really unfortunate and regrettable.” She acknowledged the financial challenges created by stopping the fees and said the administration is planning repayment procedures with the city’s audit unit, though concrete details aren’t yet available. The issue came to light during a routine review of wedding office operations amid growing demand.The Danish Ministry of Social Affairs and Housing has been asked to comment.
FAQS
### **FAQs About Copenhagen Refunding Illegal Wedding Fees**
#### **Basic Questions**
**1. Why is Copenhagen refunding wedding fees?**
Copenhagen charged couples illegal fees for weddings at city venues. Authorities ruled these fees were unlawful, so affected couples are now eligible for refunds.
**2. Who is eligible for a refund?**
Couples who were charged extra fees for weddings at Copenhagen’s city-owned venues between [specific years, if known] may qualify.
**3. How much money can couples get back?**
The refund amount depends on the illegal fee charged, but it could be hundreds or thousands of kroner per couple.
**4. How do I know if I was overcharged?**
Check your wedding contract or invoice for any fees beyond the standard booking cost. If unsure, contact Copenhagen’s wedding services or the refund office.
**5. How do I apply for a refund?**
The city will likely contact affected couples, but you can also reach out to Copenhagen’s wedding services or check their official website for updates.
—
#### **Advanced Questions**
**6. What made these wedding fees illegal?**
The fees violated Danish pricing laws by charging couples extra for services that should have been included in the standard venue cost.
**7. Will couples get interest on their refunds?**
This hasn’t been confirmed yet. Some legal cases require interest on repayments, but it depends on the city’s final decision.
**8. What if I got married years ago—can I still claim a refund?**
Yes, if your wedding was within the affected period, you should still qualify, even if it was several years ago.
**9. Are other Danish cities doing the same?**
Currently, only Copenhagen has been confirmed to have charged illegal fees, but other cities may review their policies.
**10. What if the venue was privately owned but licensed by the city?**
The refunds apply only to city-owned venues. Private venues have their own pricing rules.
—
#### **Practical Tips**
**11. What documents do I need to apply for a refund?**
Keep your wedding contract, payment receipts, and any communication with the venue.
**12. How long will refunds take to process?**
It may take weeks or months, depending on how many claims are filed.
