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Recognising foreign qualifications, getting your credentials counted

Updated July 2026Reviewed July 2026
The one-line versionDenmark's agency assesses foreign qualifications so employers and universities know what they equal. For regulated professions (doctors, nurses, lawyers) you also need Danish authorisation before you can practise.

Why recognition matters

A degree or trade qualification from abroad is not automatically understood by Danish employers or universities. An official assessment translates it into Danish terms - what level it sits at, what it is equivalent to - which smooths admission, job applications and some permits.

How to get an assessment

The Danish Agency for Higher Education and Science provides recognition (vurdering) of foreign qualifications. You submit your diplomas and transcripts (often with certified translations) and receive an assessment of their Danish equivalent. Universities may do their own assessment for admission; employers often value the official statement.

Regulated professions need authorisation, not just recognitionRecognition tells people what your qualification equals. To actually practise a regulated profession - doctor, nurse, dentist, lawyer, teacher, and others - you need formal Danish authorisation from the relevant authority, which can require Danish-language proficiency, exams or supervised practice. Start this early; it is often the long pole in relocating.

EU vs non-EU qualifications

EU/EEA professional qualifications benefit from mutual-recognition frameworks that can streamline authorisation. Non-EU qualifications are assessed case by case and may need more documentation or bridging steps. Either way, begin the process before you need to work, not after.

Get certified translations readyRecognition and authorisation both hinge on documents. Certified translations of diplomas and transcripts take time and money - sorting them early (as part of your pre-arrival admin) avoids stalling a job or a course later.

Common questions

Do I need my qualifications recognised?
For many jobs an official assessment helps employers understand your credentials. For regulated professions, you need authorisation to practise - a separate, stricter step.
What's the difference between recognition and authorisation?
Recognition states what your qualification equals in Denmark. Authorisation is legal permission to practise a regulated profession, often needing Danish and exams.
How long does it take?
Recognition is usually weeks; professional authorisation can take much longer, especially with language and exam requirements. Start early.

Verified July 2026 against official sources: su.dk, lifeindenmark.borger.dk, nyidanmark.dk (SIRI), optagelse.dk and university guidance. Figures are 2026 levels and reset annually - always check su.dk and nyidanmark.dk for your situation. General information, not legal advice.

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