Visas for Denmark

Securing a visa for Denmark is fairly quick and easy, and the approval process usually takes no more than two weeks.

Most expats will also need to write a cover letter stating the reason for their visit. Documents that are not in English or Danish must be translated into either of the languages. 

Moving to Denmark as an employee, intern, student, au pair or on a working holiday cannot be done on a visa alone, and will require residence and work permits.

Visitor visas for Denmark

Denmark is part of the Schengen Area and issues Schengen visas for short-term visits. The Schengen visa covers travel to Denmark for multiple purposes, including tourism, business, and private visits to family or friends.  

Those looking to apply for a tourist visa for Denmark should book an appointment at their local embassy or consulate to complete a visa application form. This must be accompanied by supporting documents, including:

• a cover letter
• valid passport
• proof of funds
• travel insurance
• a return ticket and travel itinerary.

If applying for a Schengen visa for business, applicants must also submit an invitation letter from a Danish company. 

Businesspeople, family members of EU citizens and family members of those legally living in Denmark or other EU states are eligible for multi-entry Schengen visas. These can be valid for anywhere between six months and five years, but holders may only stay in the country for a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day period. 

Citizens of certain countries, and those who've already been granted a valid and current visa to enter another Schengen country, may enter Denmark without a visa. EU citizens and holders of American, Australian, and New Zealand passports are included in the list of those who may freely enter Denmark without a visa for up to 90 days.

Useful links

• New to Denmark – Short-Term Visas

Residence and work permits for Denmark

EU residence documents

Certain foreigners are free to live and work in Denmark and do not need to apply for work or residence permits to do so. This includes citizens of EU/EEA states, Nordic citizens and citizens of Switzerland. 

That said, if intending to stay for more than three months, they will require a registration certificate (also known as an EU residence document). This is obtained when EU/EEA individuals register their presence with the authorities on arrival.

Residence and work permits

Expats who aren’t from one of the exempt countries must apply for a residence and work permit to live and work in Denmark. To apply, expats will need to have a written job offer that specifies salary and employment conditions. 

Obtaining a CPR number

Anyone staying in Denmark for a significant amount of time will need to obtain an identification number (CPR number). Without a CPR number, normal life in Denmark is impossible – you can't open a bank account, register with a doctor, get help from public authorities or even buy a registered mobile phone.

Useful links

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark – Residence Permits