Move to Denmark Requirements by Nationality — Interactive Checker (2025) | exploringdenmark

Move to Denmark Requirements by Nationality

Pick your nationality and we’ll tell you what you need: visa to enter, which permit route applies, who handles your case, steps, fees, and useful links. A quick matrix is included below for scannability.

Good to know: Rules differ for Nordic, EU/EEA/Swiss, and other nationalities. Purpose (work, study, family, au pair, start-up) determines your route. Always confirm on nyidanmark.dk.

Overview

🧊 Grouped by status

Nordic free movement, EU right of residence, and SIRI permits (non-EU) use different rules and authorities.

🔍 Purpose first

Work routes (Pay Limit, Positive List), student permits, family reunification, au pair, start-up/self-employment.

📑 Documents & biometrics

Expect legalised civil docs, insurance, funds/salary proofs, and biometrics at SIRI or embassy/VFS.

Interactive nationality checker

Nationality group

Country (examples)

Country / Group

— · —

Visa to enter?

—

Main route(s)

—

Authority

—

What to do now

—

Official link

—

Tip: If you already have a job offer, check Pay Limit, Positive List or Fast-track. Students should use the higher-education route. Family follows reunification rules.

Quick matrix

Nationality group	Need visa to enter?	Main permit route(s)	Authority	Notes
Nordic (DK/SE/NO/FI/IS)	No	Right to live/work; register locally	Kommune	Register address; then CPR and health card.
EU/EEA/Swiss (non-Nordic)	No (short stay)	EU right of residence (work, study, family, self-sufficient)	SIRI → Kommune	Get EU Registration Certificate; then CPR/GP.
Visa-free non-EU	No (short entry)	Work (Pay Limit, Positive Lists), Study, Family reunification	SIRI	Must hold permit to work or stay long-term.
Visa-required non-EU	Yes (D-visa)	As above; embassy/VFS issues D-visa	SIRI + Embassy/VFS	Biometrics & document checks outside DK.

Key documents

🪪 Identity & civil status

Passport validity, birth/marriage certificates, legalisations/Apostille, certified translations.

💼 Purpose proofs

Employment contract/offer, university admission, family ties and housing documentation.

💳 Finance & insurance

Proof of funds or salary, tuition receipts, private health insurance until CPR coverage.

Application steps (high level)

📝 1) Choose the correct route

Match nationality group + purpose to EU residence or a SIRI permit (Pay Limit, Positive List, etc.).

📥 2) Gather documents

Use official checklists; prepare legalisations and translations before booking biometrics.

🔐 3) Submit & biometrics

Apply online; give biometrics at SIRI in Denmark or an embassy/VFS abroad.

🏠 4) Arrive & register

After approval/D-visa: register address at Kommune, then CPR, GP, and later NemKonto/MitID.

Timelines & fees (typical)

⏳ Processing

Weeks (Fast-track) to months (family/start-up). Peak seasons extend times.

💶 Fees

Application fees vary by route; extra costs for legalisation, translations, VFS handling.

📅 Validity

Permits align to job/study length; renew with updated documentation before expiry.

Useful links

Frequently asked questions

🧭 UK citizen—visa needed?

Usually visa-free to enter, but you need an approved residence/work permit for employment or long stays.

📍 Biometrics—where?

In Denmark: SIRI branch. Outside Denmark: Danish embassy or VFS center after online submission.

🏷️ Switching permit type?

Often possible (e.g., student→work) if you still meet requirements; check SIRI rules and deadlines.

👨‍👩‍👧 Bringing family?

Use reunification or accompanying-family route; extra housing/finance/integration proofs may apply.

🧾 Insurance before CPR?

Yes—private health insurance is usually required until you receive the yellow card.

⏱️ How long?

Weeks to months depending on route/season. Apply early and track your case.

Got a question?

Personal case check

Unsure which route fits your nationality and purpose? Send your situation and we’ll reply with next steps.