Move, Live, Work in Denmark: Your 2025 Guide | exploringdenmark

Move, Live, Work in Denmark in 2025

Practical, independent guidance for newcomers and families. Choose a path below.

Your 6‑step checklist
Pick your status, purpose and city, then click “Build checklist”.
    Foreign citizens in Denmark: ≈ 673,600 people (non‑Danish citizenship) as of 1 Jan 2025 — about 11.2% of the population. Sources: Stats Denmark (StatBank “FOLK2”) and population as of 1 Jan 2025.

    Start Your Life in Denmark: 6 Key Steps

    🗺️Moving to DenmarkCountry requirements, packing, pre‑arrival checklist.See move checklist
    🧾Getting a VisaWork, study, and residence permits for non‑EU citizens.See visa options
    💼Find a JobEnglish‑speaking jobs, CV tips for internationals.Find jobs
    🏠Find HousingRent or buy, avoid scams, deposits & contracts.See housing guide
    👨‍👩‍👧Family & ChildrenFamily visas, schools, childcare.See family advice
    🇩🇰Living in DenmarkHealthcare, insurance, taxes, daily life.See living guide

    Cost of Living, Salary & Tax Calculators

    🏠 Cost of Living Calculator
    Monthly costs by city and household type.
    Open calculator
    📈 Salary Estimator
    Typical gross salaries by sector and experience.
    Estimate salary
    💶 Tax Calculator
    Net pay after tax by municipality.
    Calculate tax

    Critical Essentials

    🧾Visa & Residency (SIRI)Permits for non‑EU; EU residence documentation.See visa guide
    🆔CPR NumberRegister address → CPR unlocks healthcare & services.Get CPR steps
    🏦Banking & NemKontoAssign NemKonto (foreign IBAN possible first).See banking guide
    💳MitID & E‑servicesDigital ID, Digital Post, borger.dk essentials.See e‑services
    🩺HealthcareHealth card, choosing a GP, referrals.See healthcare guide
    🏘️HousingRentals, contracts, deposits, scams.See housing info

    Highly Important

    🚉TransportationRejsekort, Metro, cycling.See transport
    💼Employment & JobsFind work, sectors in demand, CV tips.Find a job
    👨‍👩‍👧Family & ChildrenDaycare, schools, parental leave.Family advice
    🎓Education SystemFrom kindergarten to university.See education
    ❄️Weather & SeasonsWhat to expect and pack.See weather
    🤝Integration & SocialClubs, expat groups, making friends.See integration tips

    Important

    🖥️Digitalization & E‑servicesMitID, Digital Post, borger.dk.See e‑services
    🛍️Shopping & ConsumerSupermarkets, hours, returns.See shopping
    🍽️Food & DietDanish cuisine, organic habits.See food info
    ⚖️Legal SystemRights, justice system, legal aid.See legal info
    📅Public HolidaysVacation rules, bank holidays.See holidays
    🔌Utilities & ServicesInternet, electricity, water.See utilities

    Helpful Resources

    Learn Danish for free

    Most newcomers qualify for state‑funded classes.

    Find language schools & online options
    Danish History 101

    Vikings, monarchy, welfare state, modern life.

    Read the short overview
    Допомога для українців

    Тимчасовий захист та корисні посилання.

    Офіційні ресурси

    Explore More In‑Depth Guides

    Browse the complete, ever‑growing library of Denmark guides.

    Browse all guides

    Settling‑in Timeline Checklists

    Frequently Asked Questions

    🧾 Can I move to Denmark if I am not from the EU?

    Yes, but you must meet visa/permit requirements. See work & residence permits.

    🆔 How do I get a CPR number?

    Register your address with the municipality after arrival. Full CPR guide.

    💼 How can I find a job?

    Use job portals, LinkedIn and recruiters, then tailor your CV. Find jobs.

    🎓 How do I apply to a Danish university?

    Check entry requirements and deadlines. See how.

    👨‍👩‍👧 What is the family reunification process?

    Rules differ for EU and non‑EU. All steps here.

    🩺 How does healthcare work for newcomers?

    Public healthcare after CPR. Read more.

    🗣️ How can I learn Danish for free?

    Most newcomers qualify for state‑funded classes. Find a course.

    🏘️ How expensive is housing?

    Typical 1–2 bed rentals ~8,000–16,000 DKK/month. Housing guide.

    🛡️ Do I need private insurance?

    Optional for dentists/specialists/peace of mind. Options.

    🏦 How do I open a bank account?

    With your CPR and ID, book a bank appointment. Full instructions.

    Contact Us

    Need a quick answer or local tip? We’re happy to help.