Moving to Denmark as an EU Citizen? Here’s what to know
As an EU citizen, moving to Denmark is easier than you think—but there are still a few things to sort out. We’ll guide you through everything from paperwork to finding a job and settling in.
As a Citizen of the European Union (EU) you have the right of free movement in Denmark
Yes, the freedom of movement within the EU means you can arrive in Denmark without needing a visa or a work permit. But before you start picturing yourself sipping coffee by Nyhavn, let’s talk about what that actually looks like in practice.
Free movement does not mean automatic access to jobs, housing, or public benefits. While Denmark is welcoming, it has strict rules when it comes to residency registration, taxation, and access to services. Within three months of arriving (or six months if you’re actively job hunting), you’ll need to register your stay. That means securing an EU residence document (EU-opholdsdokument), getting a CPR number (your golden ticket to healthcare and banking), and figuring out where you’ll live and work.
What to do
Secure Your EU Residence Document (EU-opholdsdokument)
Before you can do anything official in Denmark, you must get your EU residence document. This proves your right to stay longer than three months and is the key to accessing essential services.
Get Your CPR Number – Denmark’s Golden Key
Once you have your EU residence document, you can apply for a CPR number (civil registration number). Without it, you’ll be a ghost in Danish society—no bank account, no doctor, no access to anything.
Open a Danish Bank Account & Register for MitID
Danish employers only pay into Danish bank accounts, so opening one is mandatory if you plan to work. You’ll also need NemID or MitID, Denmark’s digital identity system, to do basically everything—sign contracts, log into online banking, and even pay taxes.
Find Work & Register for Tax (Skat)
Danish taxes are high, but they fund excellent public services. Once you have a job, you must register with SKAT (the Danish Tax Authority) to get a tax card. Without this, your employer will deduct up to 55% in taxes—ouch.
Housing & Living Costs
If you’re planning to work in Denmark, understanding the visa and work permit process is essential—especially for non-EU citizens. This section breaks down the different types of work permits, who qualifies, and how to apply. Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting out, we’ll help you understand the legal steps needed to live and work in Denmark with confidence.
Integrating into Denmark
Denmark’s job market is strong, diverse, and open to international talent—especially in high-demand fields like tech, healthcare, and engineering. Here, we explore current job market trends, what Danish employers are looking for, and how to position yourself for success. If you’re aiming to find meaningful work in Denmark, this guide is your starting point.
Recommended content
Explore Denmark
Vil Du Lære Dansk?
The Danish language can be a challenge, but it’s also a gateway to deeper integration and everyday ease in Denmark. In this guide, we explore how to learn Danish, what resources are available, and why even basic skills can make a big difference. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to improve, this is your roadmap to mastering Danish.
Danish Work-Life Balance
Denmark is world-renowned for its exceptional work-life balance, where a 37-hour workweek, flexible schedules, and generous vacation time are the norm. In this guide, we break down what makes Danish workplace culture so unique, how it benefits both employees and employers, and what you can expect when working in Denmark. If you’re seeking a healthier balance between work and life, Denmark sets the gold standard.
Featured Articles
Is Greenland Part of Denmark? It’s Complicated.
Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark—but with a twist. While it has its own government and growing independence, Denmark still plays a major role in areas like foreign policy and funding. In this section, we break down the unique political, cultural, and economic relationship between Greenland and Denmark—what connects them, what separates them, and why it matters today.
Sorry Britannia—Denmark Really Does Rule the Waves. Here’s Why.
Denmark punches well above its weight when it comes to the sea. From global shipping giants to cutting-edge green maritime tech, Denmark has quietly become a world leader on the water. In this article, we dive into how this small nation outpaces the competition—and why it might just be the true ruler of the waves.
Contact/FAQs/Articles
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Thinking about moving to Denmark? We’re here to help! Whether you need guidance on work visas, residency permits, housing, or life in Denmark, our team is ready to provide clear, advice tailored to your situation.
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