Getting a Visa in Denmark
Not sure how to get a Danish visa? Here’s your simple, up-to-date guide for internationals — who needs a visa, visa types, requirements, step-by-step application, and official links.
Overview: Denmark & Schengen visas
Schengen rules
Denmark is in Schengen. Short stays up to 90 days are under Schengen rules.
Purpose matters
Tourism/business ≠ work. Paid work generally requires a residence/work permit.
Who needs a Danish visa?
EU/EEA/Swiss
No visa for entry; register if staying over 3 months.
Visa-exempt
Some nationalities (e.g., US, UK, CA, AU) can visit up to 90 days visa-free.
Others
Most other nationalities need a Schengen visa before arrival.
Main visa & permit types
Short-stay (Schengen)
Tourism/business/family visits up to 90 days.
Official info
Work permits
Pay Limit, Positive List, Fast-track, Start-up, etc.
Work routes
Study permits
University/exchange/PhD; limited work allowed.
Study (official)
Family reunification
Join spouse/partner/children in DK.
Family permits
Business visitors
Meetings/conferences (no paid work).
Business visa
Au pair / Intern
Special categories with extra rules.
Official page
How to apply (step-by-step)
1) Pick the route
Short-stay vs residence (work/study/family). Follow the right checklist.
2) Start application
Begin at nyidanmark.dk or use applyvisa.um.dk.
3) Prepare docs
Passport, form, photo, insurance, funds, and purpose docs (job/uni/family).
4) Biometrics
Give fingerprints/photo at a mission/VFS/SIRI as instructed.
5) Wait decision
Short-stay ~15–30 days; permits often 1–3 months.
6) Travel & register
For long stays, arrive after approval; then register CPR, address, MitID.
Documents & fees (typical)
Valid passport
Covering your full intended stay (and beyond, for Schengen).
Correct form
Use the exact form for your visa/permit type.
Photo
Recent, passport-style meeting spec.
Fees
Short-stay ≈ €80 (check exact); permits vary by route.
Funds
Bank statements/payslips to prove means.
Insurance
Schengen: medical cover to €30,000 minimum.
Useful resources (official)
Related on exploringdenmark
CPR number
MitID
Banking
SIRI appointment
Frequently Asked Questions
⏳ How long does it take?
Short-stay ~15–30 days. Work/study/family permits often 1–3 months (varies by route/season).
🏢 Can I switch from tourist to work?
No. Apply for a work permit from abroad and wait for approval before entering for employment.
👨👩👦 Can my family join me?
Possibly via family reunification depending on your status and permit.
🗺️ Can I travel in Schengen?
With a Danish residence permit, you can visit other Schengen countries up to 90/180 days.
🩺 Is insurance required?
Yes — Schengen requires medical insurance; residents join the DK system after registration.
📅 When should I apply?
Apply early (ideally ≥3 months before travel) and book tickets after approval.