CPR Number: Danish ID
The CPR number is your key ID in Denmark. This guide covers what it is, how to apply, what to bring, and the next steps after registration.
Overview: The CPR number in Denmark
👤 Who needs it?
Residents staying more than 3 months (some EU/EEA cases 6 months) must register for a CPR number.
🏢 Where to apply
Register your address and apply via your kommune (municipality) or an International Citizen Service (ICS) center.
📮 Delivery
After approval, your health insurance card (“yellow card”) is sent to your registered address.
🧾 Documents
Bring: passport, residence permit (if relevant), proof of address/rental contract, and employment or study documents when applicable.
What is the CPR number?
Your Danish ID
A 10-digit identifier (format DDMMYY-XXXX) used by authorities, banks, healthcare and more.
Used everywhere
Needed for healthcare, banking, salary, housing contracts, school registration, and tax.
Yellow health card
Carry it to medical appointments and when registering with new services.
Why you need a CPR number
Open a bank account
Required for NemKonto, salary, rent and bill payments.
Get healthcare
Access the public health system with your CPR and yellow card.
Start working
Tax registration is linked to your CPR number.
How to get a CPR number
Secure housing
You’ll need a fixed address and a signed rental contract first.
Book appointment
Contact your kommune or ICS to book an in-person registration slot.
Bring documents
Check the official checklist for your situation before you go.
After registration: what next?
Health card by post
Typically arrives within 1–3 weeks (varies by kommune).
Get MitID
Digital ID used for banking, tax and public services.
Open bank account
Bring CPR, photo ID and your yellow card.
Lost, delayed, or problems?
Card delayed?
If nothing arrives after ~3 weeks, contact your kommune or ICS.
Change of address
Report moves promptly so your CPR details stay correct.
Need help?
ICS centers provide English-language support in major cities.
Useful resources (official)
CPR.dk (official)
Life in Denmark
International Citizen Service
International House Copenhagen
MitID (official)
Related on exploringdenmark
MitID & digital login
Bank accounts
Resident registration
Housing
Frequently Asked Questions
📝 Who needs a CPR number?
Anyone living in Denmark more than 3 months (some EU/EEA cases up to 6 months).
📄 What documents do I need?
Passport, residence proof/permit, rental contract and address proof; job or study documents if applicable.
🏦 Can I open a bank account before CPR?
Usually not — most banks require a CPR number first.
🔐 What is MitID?
National digital ID for secure access to banking, tax and public services.
⏳ How long does it take?
Processing times vary; many receive the health card within 1–3 weeks by post.
📞 Where can I get help?
Contact your kommune or an ICS center for English-language assistance.