Getting Married Abroad

Many couples dream of getting married abroad. However, it is important to be aware of a few matters related to getting married outside Finland.

A Pastor’s Right to Officiate Marriages Abroad

Under Finnish marriage law, a Finnish pastor may officiate a marriage abroad only if they have authorization to do so in the country in question. This authorization is granted by the Finnish Ministry of Education and Culture after consultation with the local authorities. Therefore, unfortunately, it is not possible to invite your own pastor from Finland to officiate a wedding abroad without this specific authorization.

At present, Finnish pastors are authorized to officiate marriages abroad only in Norway and Germany. For example, in Spain, including the Canary Islands, the authorization process is still ongoing

Blessing of a Marriage Abroad

Although getting married abroad is not always possible, a beautiful and meaningful alternative is available: the blessing of a marriage. Pastors of the Finnish Seamen’s Mission as well as pastors serving Finns abroad are happy to conduct marriage blessings within their areas of work.

A marriage blessing is very similar to a wedding ceremony and can be arranged in a festive manner according to the couple’s wishes. In practice, this means that the couple first enters into a civil marriage in Finland. This can be done, for example, at a parish office, a local register office, or even at Helsinki Airport.

Once the marriage has been legally concluded, the blessing can be arranged anywhere without restrictions related to civil authorities. The blessing can be arranged directly with the local Finnish pastor.