NemKonto Setup for Non-EU Residents — Requirements & Troubleshooting | exploringdenmark

NemKonto Setup for Non-EU Residents

How to get your NemKonto when you’re not from the EU: prerequisites, documents, bank options, and what to do if you hit roadblocks.

Good to know: NemKonto is the bank account the public sector uses to pay you (tax refunds, benefits). You assign one account to your CPR—usually via MitID.

Overview

🧩 Who needs it?

Anyone expecting money from the state—tax refunds, SU/benefits, pension, reimbursements.

🗝️ Core ingredients

CPR number, MitID login, and a bank account in your own name (Danish or certain foreign IBANs).

⏱️ Typical timeline

Same day if everything is ready; 1–2 weeks if banks need KYC checks or documents.

Requirements

Documents to have ready

Passport, residence permit, CPR letter, Danish address proof, and your bank’s IBAN/registration details.

MitID access

You’ll use MitID to log in and approve the assignment. If MitID isn’t ready, complete that first.

Step-by-step

1) Prepare your bank account

Open a Danish account, or confirm your foreign IBAN is acceptable. Ensure your account name exactly matches CPR.

2) Assign in the portal

3) Verify it’s registered

Re-log and confirm the IBAN displayed. Keep a screenshot for your records and HR/Student Services.

4) Update when you switch banks

Changing banks later? Re-assign the new account. Updates are typically immediate after bank validation.

Troubleshooting (common non-EU snags)

Name or address mismatch

Fix details at your bank (and CPR if needed). The name must match exactly to pass checks.

MitID not active

Re-onboard MitID; passport NFC scan can speed things up. If blocked, visit a Borgerservice.

Foreign IBAN delays

Supported case-by-case. Expect longer checks. A Danish account is usually the smoothest route.

No CPR yet?

You need CPR first. Finish registration (CPR → MitID) then return to assign NemKonto.

Useful links on exploringdenmark

Frequently asked questions

🏦 Can I use Revolut/foreign IBAN?

Sometimes. Acceptance varies and checks can take longer. A Danish account is usually easier.

⏳ How long does it take?

If KYC is complete, often same day. Otherwise allow 1–2 weeks for document review.

🎓 Do students need NemKonto?

Yes. SU and many refunds are paid to your NemKonto.

🔒 Is it safe to switch later?

Yes—just re-assign your new account in the portal when you change banks.

🧾 Will my employer see my IBAN?

NemKonto is for public payments; your employer pays to the salary account you give them.

🌍 I’m on a temporary permit

You can still assign a NemKonto if you have CPR and MitID. Keep your permit valid and details updated.

Need help?

Stuck on NemKonto?

Tell us your status (CPR, MitID, bank, residency) and where it fails—we’ll outline the next steps.