Family Reunification in Denmark (2025)
Bring your spouse/partner or children to Denmark: who qualifies, documents you’ll need, step-by-step process for EU and non-EU cases, and what to do after approval.
Overview
What is it?
A residence pathway that lets close family members join you in Denmark.
Who qualifies
Spouses/registered partners, documented long-term partners, and dependent children under 18.
EU vs non-EU
EU/EEA rules are lighter; non-EU routes include stricter requirements.
Who can apply?
Partner
Married/registered partners or cohabiting partners with evidence of a durable relationship.
Children
Biological/adopted dependent children under 18 may be included.
Other family
Exceptional dependency cases are possible—check official guidance.
How to apply
1) Collect documents
Passports/IDs, marriage/partnership proof, cohabitation evidence, children’s birth certs, income & housing (non-EU), translations if needed.
2) Submit
Apply via nyidanmark.dk (SIRI) for non-EU. EU/EEA follow EU registration rules.
3) Appointment & wait
Biometrics (non-EU) at SIRI/ICS, or municipal registration (EU). Processing ranges from weeks (EU) to months (non-EU).
After approval
Move & register
After arrival, register address and obtain CPR; the yellow health card follows by post.
Residence card
Non-EU receive a plastic residence card; EU/EEA register their EU residence certificate.
Renew on time
Track expiry and renew in advance—requirements may apply at each renewal.
Useful resources (official)
SIRI — Family
International Citizen Service
Life in Denmark
Related on exploringdenmark
CPR number
MitID & NemID
Bank account
International House
SIRI appointment
Resident registration
Frequently Asked Questions
💍 Do we have to be married?
Not always. Durable partnerships can qualify with documentation (cohabitation, shared children, etc.).
💶 Is there an income requirement?
Often for non-EU sponsors/applicants. Check the precise thresholds and rules on SIRI.
⏳ How long does it take?
EU/EEA cases are usually quicker (weeks). Non-EU decisions commonly take several months.
👦 Can I bring my children?
Yes, dependent children under 18 can typically be included.
🏠 Do I need specific housing?
Non-EU routes often require suitable housing documentation; EU/EEA routes generally do not.
📞 Where can I get help?
Contact ICS or SIRI; consider legal advice for complex situations.