Moving to Denmark from Poland
Poles are one of the largest international communities in Denmark, and moving to Denmark from Poland is – on paper – one of the simplest moves there is: as an EU citizen, you need no visa and no work permit. This guide covers your rights, the registration you do need, finding work and housing, getting your qualifications recognised, and settling in.
Overview
Since Poland joined the EU in 2004, Poles have become one of the biggest international groups in Denmark – in construction sites, hospitals, farms, factories and, increasingly, offices. That long-trodden path is part of what makes moving to Denmark from Poland so manageable: the legal side is light, the community is established, and the practical steps are well documented. The real work is the everyday stuff – registration, a job, somewhere to live, and the language.
As a Polish citizen you have full EU free movement: no visa, no work permit, and the right to live, work, study or run a business in Denmark from the day you arrive. You only need to register if you stay more than three months.
Your right to be here
Poland is in the EU, so you move under free-movement rules. You do not apply for permission to come; you simply arrive and, if you are staying beyond three months, register your residence. You can take any job, be self-employed, study, or look for work – all on equal terms with Danes. This is the single biggest advantage over non-EU arrivals.
Registration: EU document and CPR
Two registrations turn you into a functioning resident:
- EU residence document (registreringsbevis) – apply to SIRI within three months of arriving. It confirms your right to stay and is free.
- CPR number – register your address at the municipality (or at International House if you are in Copenhagen) to get your CPR, the key to healthcare, banking and everything else.
After that, set up MitID, a bank account and NemKonto, and request a tax card so your pay is taxed correctly.
Finding work
Demand is strong, and Polish workers are well represented across construction, manufacturing, agriculture, logistics, cleaning and healthcare – with a growing presence in engineering and IT. Many roles are found through Danish job portals and word of mouth; English is enough to start in plenty of workplaces, though Danish widens your options fast. Our job-hunting guide covers where to look.
Getting your qualifications recognised
For most jobs you just need to show your CV and references. But regulated professions – nurses, doctors, electricians, teachers and similar – require formal recognition or authorisation before you can practise. Check the requirements for your field early, as the process can take time, and keep certified copies and translations of your Polish diplomas to hand.
Housing
Finding somewhere to live is usually the hardest part, especially in Copenhagen and Aarhus where demand is high and scams target newcomers. Start early, never pay a deposit before viewing or signing, and know your rights as a tenant.
The Polish community
You will not be starting from scratch. Denmark has a large, settled Polish community, with Polish shops, Catholic parishes with Polish-language Mass, weekend schools for children, and active social networks – particularly around Copenhagen and the bigger towns. It is one of the easier soft landings in Europe, and a good way to find your feet before your Danish takes off.
Money and tax
Wages are high but so is tax – and, famously, there is no statutory minimum wage; pay is set by sector agreements instead. Budget realistically for the cost of living, get your tax card sorted, and understand what lands in your account after deductions.
First steps when moving to Denmark from Poland
- Arrive – no visa or permit required.
- Apply for your EU residence document with SIRI (within three months).
- Register your address and get your CPR number.
- Set up MitID, a bank account, NemKonto and a tax card.
- Line up work and housing, and start free Danish classes.
Questions and answers
Do I need a visa or work permit?
No. As a Polish EU citizen you have free movement – you can live and work in Denmark without either. You only register your residence if staying over three months.
How long can I stay to look for work?
As an EU jobseeker you can stay to seek work; you simply register once you settle. There is none of the pressure non-EU graduates face.
Will my Polish qualifications be recognised?
For most jobs, yes informally. Regulated professions (health, trades, teaching) need formal authorisation first – check your field early.
Is there a minimum wage?
No statutory one. Pay floors come from collective agreements, and most jobs pay well above them – see our minimum-wage guide.