Guide to Residency in Denmark

Obtaining a residency visa in Denmark is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Denmark gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Check Eligibility
  • Determine if you meet the criteria for residency. You can find the various schemes on the official New to Denmark website.
  • The most common schemes include being a student, an employee, an au pair, or family reunification.
• Gather Necessary Documentation
  • Valid passport
  • Passport photos
  • Completed application form (available on the New to Denmark website)
  • Specific documents related to your scheme (e.g., work contract, letter of acceptance from a university, etc.)
• Apply for Residence Permit
  • Create a case order ID on the New to Denmark website.
  • Pay the fee associated with your application, if applicable.
  • Submit the application online or in person at a Danish diplomatic mission or a visa application center in your home country.
• Wait for Processing
  • Processing times vary depending on the scheme. You can check the expected wait time on the New to Denmark website.
  • You may be contacted for additional information or an interview.
• Move to Denmark
  • Once your residence permit is granted, you have a certain time frame to enter Denmark and register with the authorities.
• Register with the Danish Civil Registration System (CPR)
  • This must be done in person at a Citizen Service Center within 5 days of your arrival.
  • Bring your passport, residence permit, and a valid rental contract or proof of address.
• Apply for a Tax Number
  • This is done automatically when you register with the CPR.
  • Your tax number will be printed on your Danish health insurance card (sundhedskort), which you will receive a few weeks after your CPR registration.
• Open a Bank Account
  • You can open a bank account at any major Danish bank.
  • You will need your passport, residence permit, and CPR number.
• Register with the Danish Customs and Tax Administration (SKAT)
  • This is necessary for tax purposes and is usually done through your employer.
  • If you are not employed, you can register directly with SKAT using your tax number.
• Find Accommodation
  • You can search for accommodation on various websites such as BoligPortal, LejeBolig, or DBA.
  • Remember to register your new address with the CPR if you move.
• Learn Danish
  • While many Danes speak English, learning Danish will greatly benefit your integration.
  • You can sign up for free Danish language courses at your local municipality.

Important Notes

It is crucial to ensure that your residence permit remains valid throughout your stay in Denmark. If you change your purpose for being in Denmark (e.g., from studying to working), you must apply for a new residence permit.

Always keep the authorities informed of any changes in your personal circumstances, such as a new address or a new job.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Denmark?

"In order to visit Denmark, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, providing a valid passport, and providing proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay. Additionally, applicants may be required to provide proof of accommodation, a return ticket, and a valid health insurance policy. In order to obtain residency in Denmark, foreign nationals must apply for a residence permit. The process of applying for a residence permit involves submitting an application form, providing a valid passport, and providing proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay. Additionally, applicants may be required to provide proof of accommodation, a valid health insurance policy, and evidence of employment or study in Denmark," commented one member living in Denmark.