How to Start a Business in Denmark (2025)
Denmark is one of the world’s easiest countries to start a business—even as a foreigner! Here’s how to choose a business type, register, handle tax and banking, and get help in English.
Company Types in Denmark
👤 Sole Proprietorship (“Enkeltmandsvirksomhed”)
Fast, free, no minimum capital. Register online—ideal for freelancers, consultants, and side businesses.
🏢 Private Limited Company (ApS)
Limited liability. Requires 40,000 DKK in share capital. More paperwork but preferred for startups, tech, and hiring.
👥 Other Types
Partnerships (I/S), public limited (A/S), or cooperative (A.m.b.a.)—typically for bigger/specialized setups.
Registration Steps
💻 Register Online
Go to virk.dk (click “English”) to create your company and get a CVR number (Danish company number).
🪪 What You Need
CPR (civil number) or passport, Danish address, basic business info. ApS requires capital deposit and founding documents.
⏱️ Fees & Timeline
Sole trader: free, ~1 day. ApS: 670 DKK fee, ~3–7 days. Opening a bank account may take longer for non‑residents.
Bank Account, VAT & Tax Numbers
🏦 Business Bank Account
Mandatory for ApS, recommended for sole traders. Banks require your CVR and may ask for a business plan if you’re new to Denmark.
🧾 VAT (“Moms”) Number
If you expect over 50,000 DKK turnover per year, register for VAT at virk.dk. Your CVR is your VAT number.
💼 Taxes
Report and pay via skat.dk. ApS files annual accounts; sole traders report business income on their personal tax return.
Useful Links & Help
🌐 Virk.dk (Company Registration)
virk.dk (in English)
💰 SKAT (Tax & VAT Info)
💬 Startup Denmark
startupdenmark.info (for foreign entrepreneurs)
Related Guides on exploringdenmark.com
🧾 How VAT Works
VAT basics, invoices, and refunds. Read more
🧳 Self‑Employment & Freelancing
Registering as a sole trader in Denmark. Read more
🆔 Tax ID & Numbers
VAT, CVR, and more explained. Read more
🗣️ Living in English
Business‑friendly services for expats. Read more
Frequently asked questions
🌍 Can non‑residents open a business?
EU/EEA citizens can open a business even if not living in Denmark. Non‑EU citizens may need a startup visa or work permit.
🧑💻 Can I freelance without a company?
Yes. Register as a sole trader (“enkeltmandsvirksomhed”)—quick and free.
📍 Do I need a Danish address?
Yes—your company must have a Danish address for registration.
🏢 ApS vs Sole Trader?
ApS provides limited liability (protects personal assets). Sole trader is faster and free, but you’re personally liable for debts.
🔢 What’s a CVR number?
The unique registration number for Danish companies—used for taxes, VAT, and all official documents.
💸 How much does it cost to start?
Sole trader: free. ApS: at least 40,000 DKK capital + 670 DKK registration fee. Bank account and VAT registration are free.
Want 1:1 help with your setup?
Tell us your business type, expected turnover, and address—get a step‑by‑step checklist and English‑speaking help.