How to Start a Business in Denmark (2025) | exploringdenmark

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.

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Quick Facts: Most businesses can be set up online in 1–3 days. Danish and English-language help is available, and you can start as a sole trader, ApS, or partnership.

Company Types in Denmark

Sole Proprietorship (“Enkeltmandsvirksomhed”) Fast, free, no minimum capital. Register online—good for freelancers, consultants, and side businesses.
Private Limited Company (ApS) Limited liability. Requires 40,000 DKK in share capital. Slightly more paperwork but preferred for startups, tech, and hiring.
Other Types Partnerships (I/S), public limited (A/S), or cooperative (A.m.b.a.)—mostly for bigger or 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, some business info. ApS requires capital deposit and founding documents.
Fees & Timeline Sole trader: free, ready in 1 day. ApS: 670 DKK fee, 3–7 days. Bank accounts may take extra time for non-residents.

Bank Account, VAT & Tax Numbers

Business Bank Account Mandatory for ApS, optional but recommended for sole traders. Banks require your CVR and may request 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 Pay and report taxes 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) skat.dk
Startup Denmark startupdenmark.info (for foreign entrepreneurs)
English-Speaking Accountants exploringdenmark.com: Tax Advisors
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/work permit.
Can I freelance without a company? Yes, you can 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.
What’s the difference between ApS and sole trader? ApS gives you limited liability (your personal assets are protected). Sole trader is fast and free, but you’re personally responsible 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 in capital + 670 DKK registration fee. Bank account and VAT registration are free.