Moving to Denmark Guide (2025) | exploringdenmark
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Moving to Denmark Guide (2025)

Thinking of making Denmark your new home? Here’s your step-by-step, no-nonsense guide to visas, CPR, housing, first steps, and the essentials to get settled fast.

Tip: Your CPR number unlocks healthcare, banking, MobilePay, and phone contracts—book your registration appointment as soon as you move in.

Overview: Relocating to Denmark

Visas & permits

Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens usually need a residence permit (work, study, family). EU/EEA/Swiss register their right to reside after arrival.

CPR registration

Register your address with the kommune to get your CPR and yellow health card. Many cities offer newcomer centers to do it in one visit.

Housing first

Secure accommodation (even temporary) before arrival—Copenhagen/Aarhus are competitive and often require documentation and deposits.

Before you move: checklist

📄 Confirm eligibility

Choose the right permit route (job offer, Positive List, graduate, au pair, family). Start applications early.

🏢 Employment or study

Have your contract/acceptance letter. Some permits require minimum salary or specific fields.

🏘️ Accommodation

Line up a lease, dorm, or short-term stay. Beware of scams; never send deposits without contracts and verified IDs.

On arrival: first steps

🏡 Move in & document your address

Keep your signed lease/confirmation. You’ll need it for registration and banking.

📝 Register for CPR

Book an appointment with your kommune (or International House). Choose a GP and confirm your yellow card delivery address.

🔐 Get MitID

MitID is your digital key for banking, taxes, and government services. You may need in-person verification with ID.

📶 Essentials: bank, SIM, insurance

Open a Danish bank account for salary and bills, pick a mobile plan, and confirm health coverage or private insurance if required.

Documents & essentials

🛂 Passport/ID

Valid passport (or EU/EEA ID). Keep extra copies of photo pages and visas.

📃 Residence proof

Residence permit (non-EU) or EU registration certificate. Carry originals to appointments.

📑 Housing documents

Lease/contract, CPR appointment letter, landlord contact info, move-in report (if any).

💼 Work/study contract

Signed employment or university documentation—often requested by authorities and banks.

🩺 Health insurance

You’ll be covered via the yellow card once registered; bring private coverage if there’s a gap.

💳 Banking details

Proof of address and ID for account setup; many payments use MobilePay linked to your CPR.

Useful resources & official links

Frequently asked questions

🛂 Do I need a visa?

Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens do—apply well before your move. EU/EEA/Swiss can move freely but must still register.

🏘️ Can I find housing after arrival?

Possible, but risky in big cities—secure at least temporary accommodation in advance.

🪪 What is CPR and why do I need it?

It’s your identity number, essential for healthcare, banking, salary, phone plans, and more.

📦 How do I ship belongings?

For large moves use international movers; for smaller loads consider parcel/baggage shipping services.

👨‍👩‍👧 Can my family come with me?

Yes, but family members may also need visas/permits depending on nationality and your permit type.