Visa Guide for Non-EU Citizens in Denmark
Moving to Denmark from outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland? This guide covers short-stay (Schengen) visas and long-stay residence permits for work, study, and family — what to know, how to apply, and official links.
Overview: Danish visas for non-EU citizens
Short-stay (Schengen)
Tourism/business up to 90 days in Schengen. Not for paid work.
Residence permits
For work, study, au pair, family reunification — lets you live in Denmark.
Apply early
Processing varies by type; start early and follow the official checklist.
Main visa & permit types
Schengen (short-stay)
Tourism, business, family visits up to 90 days.
Official info
Work permits
Pay Limit, Positive List, Fast-track, Start-up, Researcher, etc.
Work permit portal
Study permits
University/exchange/PhD. Often allows limited work.
Study in Denmark (official)
Family reunification
For spouse/partner/children to join you in Denmark.
Family permits (official)
Business visitors
Meetings/conferences (no paid work), up to 90 days.
Business visa (official)
Au pair & interns
Special categories with extra rules.
Au pair / Intern (official)
Who needs a visa or permit?
Most non-EU nationals
Unless your country is Schengen-visa exempt for short stays, you’ll need a visa.
Stays over 90 days
Require a residence permit even if you’re visa-exempt for short stays.
No “switching” inside DK
Don’t enter to job-hunt or study before approval; apply from abroad.
How to apply (step-by-step)
1) Choose type
Short-stay vs residence (work, study, family). Follow the correct route.
2) Apply via SIRI
Start on nyidanmark.dk or at a Danish mission.
3) Docs & biometrics
Prepare all documents; give biometrics when requested.
4) Wait for decision
Do not travel for long stays until you’re approved.
5) Arrive & register
After arrival, complete local registration steps (CPR, address, etc.).
6) Digital ID
Set up MitID after CPR to access services and banking.
Documents you’ll typically need
Valid passport
Must cover your entire intended stay.
Application form
Use the correct form for your visa/permit.
Purpose documents
Work: contract. Study: admission. Family: marriage/birth certificates.
Photo
Recent passport photo meeting specifications.
Funds & insurance
Show sufficient means and travel/health insurance where required.
Biometrics
Fingerprints/signature captured at mission/SIRI.
Useful resources (official)
nyidanmark.dk
Schengen visa
Work permits
Related on exploringdenmark
CPR number
MitID
Bank account
SIRI appointment
Frequently Asked Questions
⏳ Processing time?
Short-stay: ~2–4 weeks. Residence/work: often 1–3 months (varies by route and season).
🏢 Switch from tourist to work?
No. Apply for a work permit from abroad and await approval before entering for employment.
👨👩👦 Can my family join?
Yes — family reunification may be available depending on your permit and situation.
🔁 Changing jobs?
Most work permits are employer-specific; you’ll typically need a new permit before switching.
🗺️ Travel in Schengen?
With a Danish residence permit, you can visit other Schengen countries up to 90/180 days.
🩺 Insurance required?
Yes — travel insurance for short stays. For residence, you join DK health system after registration.