Open a Bank Account in Denmark (2025) | exploringdenmark
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Open a Bank Account in Denmark (2025)

Everything internationals and students need to open a Danish bank account: CPR & documents, NemKonto, fees, top banks, and digital banking tips.

NemKonto needed: salaries and public payments go to a designated Danish account. Set up your bank account soon after getting CPR.

Overview: banking in Denmark at a glance

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CPR required

You generally need a CPR number and Danish address to open an account.

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Digital-first

Most onboarding, statements, and support are online or in-app.

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Cards & MobilePay

Dankort/Visas are standard; MobilePay is widely used for everyday payments.

How to open a bank account: step-by-step

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1) Register address & get CPR. Book with your kommune, then await your yellow health card.
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2) Gather documents. Passport/EU ID, CPR, proof of address, employment/student letter, and (if asked) source-of-funds.
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3) Book an appointment. Many banks require online booking; walk-ins are uncommon in peak periods.
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4) KYC & signatures. Complete anti–money laundering checks and sign (often digitally).
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5) Approval & setup. Typical timelines are 1–3 weeks; online access and IBAN follow.
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6) Cards & codes by post. Card, PIN, and code letters usually arrive separately within 1–2 weeks.

What you need (requirements)

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Valid ID

Passport or EU/EEA national ID card.

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CPR number

Issued after address registration.

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Proof of address

Rental contract, official letter, or utility bill in your name.

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Employment/Student proof

Offer letter, enrollment, or contract may be requested.

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MitID (after CPR)

For secure logins, e-signing, and bank access.

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Initial deposit

Some banks ask for a small opening deposit.

Typical bank fees (guide)

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Monthly account

~DKK 20–45; student/youth accounts often discounted or free.

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ATM withdrawals

Free at your bank’s ATMs; small fee at others/abroad.

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Cards

Dankort low-cost; Visa/Mastercard may carry annual fees.

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International transfers

Bank fees vary; compare with services like Wise/Revolut.

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Overdraft

Limited for newcomers and interest is comparatively high.

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Online & apps

Included; most banks offer English-language apps.

Best banks for internationals & students

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Danske Bank

danskebank.dk — broad English support, student packages.

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Nordea

nordea.dk — strong digital onboarding, Nordic coverage.

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Arbejdernes Landsbank

al-bank.dk — non-profit, family-friendly options.

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Sydbank

sydbank.dk — good branch network and newcomer support.

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Lunar (DK)

lunar.app — app-first Danish bank, fast setup.

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N26 / Wise

n26.com / wise.com — handy extras, but you still need a Danish account for NemKonto.

Tips & pitfalls

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Apply early

Banks are busiest Aug–Oct & Jan–Feb; book once you have CPR.

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Bring everything

Missing one document can push you back weeks.

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Install the apps

Enable notifications; set up MobilePay after your account is active.

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Watch your mail

PINs, cards, and codes arrive in separate envelopes.

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Lose your card?

Freeze it in-app and call the hotline immediately.

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English support

Available online/phone; smaller branches may be Danish-first.

Useful resources & official links

Frequently Asked Questions

🪪 Can I open without a CPR?

Generally no for standard accounts; CPR and address are expected.

🎓 Are student accounts free?

Often discounted or free up to ~age 28–29 (varies by bank).

🌍 Will N26/Wise be enough?

Useful, but you still need a Danish bank for your NemKonto.

⏱️ How long does it take?

Commonly 1–3 weeks from appointment to full access.

💳 When do cards arrive?

1–2 weeks after approval; PIN and codes arrive separately.

🗣️ English in the app?

Yes for most major banks; branch language varies.