Bringing Spouse/Partner to Denmark in 2025
Everything you need to know about family reunification in Denmark: requirements, documents, how to apply, and practical tips for couples and families in 2025.
Overview
Denmark welcomes international couples, but the process is detailed. Whether you’re an EU or non‑EU citizen, there are specific rules, documents, and requirements. Start early and prepare your paperwork carefully.
- Family reunification: For spouses, registered partners, and some cohabiting couples.
- Residence permit: Needed for most non‑EU spouses—EU citizens have different, typically easier rules.
- Income & housing: You must show stable income and suitable housing for your family.
- Processing: Applications can take several months. Apply early.
Main Requirements (2025)
💍 Relationship proof
Valid marriage or civil‑partnership certificate—or, for some cases, proof of cohabitation (often 2+ years together).
💶 Stable income
The Danish‑based sponsor typically needs to show sufficient, stable income to support the spouse/partner.
🏠 Suitable housing
Accommodation must meet Danish standards (not overcrowded; valid lease/ownership).
How to Apply
🧭 Start online
Begin via SIRI (non‑EU) or at your kommune for EU registrations.
📑 Gather documents
Passports/IDs, marriage/partnership proof, income statements, housing documentation, and any required forms.
💳 Pay the fee
Most non‑EU applications include a fee (varies by permit type). Keep your receipt.
Documents Checklist
🆔 Passports & IDs
Valid passports for both partners; include previous permits if relevant.
👫 Marriage/cohabitation
Marriage certificate, registered partnership, or proofs of cohabitation (leases, bills, joint accounts).
💸 Income & housing
Employment contract, recent payslips, bank statements, and rental contract/property deed.
Processing Time & Tips
⏳ Timelines
Non‑EU family‑reunification cases often take ~2–6 months; EU citizens usually register after arrival.
🔁 Check updates
Rules change—always confirm details on official sites (SIRI for non‑EU; Life in Denmark for EU).
📬 After approval
Next steps typically include CPR registration, MitID, and health‑care setup after arrival.
Useful Resources
🔗 SIRI (Non‑EU)
🇪🇺 EU registration
📄 Checklists
Related on exploringdenmark
📝 Family reunification overview
🏠 Find housing
👶 Family benefits & childcare
🇩🇰 Living in Denmark
Frequently asked questions
⏱️ How long does it take?
Roughly 2–6 months for most non‑EU cases. EU citizens can often register within weeks after arrival.
📚 Proof of relationship?
Yes—marriage, civil partnership, or evidence of long‑term cohabitation is needed.
💶 Financial requirement?
You’ll usually need to show stable income and suitable accommodation.
🏳️🌈 Same‑sex couples?
Yes. Denmark recognizes both opposite‑ and same‑sex partnerships for reunification.
✈️ Move before approval?
Non‑EU spouses typically must wait for approval. EU partners may register on arrival.
📞 Where to get help?
See nyidanmark.dk and lifeindenmark.borger.dk for official guidance.
Want a personalised checklist for your case?
Tell us your citizenships, where you live now, and timelines—we’ll outline your likely path and documents to prep.