Healthcare

The yellow health card, your key to free care

Updated July 2026Reviewed July 2026
The short versionYour yellow health card (sundhedskort) is your key to Denmark's free healthcare. It arrives by post about 2-3 weeks after your CPR number is registered, shows your assigned doctor, and you bring it to every GP, hospital and pharmacy visit. A replacement costs DKK 40.

What it is

The sundhedskort (literally "health card", the yellow plastic card) is proof that you are covered by Denmark's tax-funded national health service. It shows your name and address, your CPR number, and the name, address and phone number of your assigned GP (family doctor). You do not apply for it separately, it is ordered automatically when your CPR registration is approved.

When it arrives

The card is posted to your Danish address about 2 to 3 weeks after your CPR number is registered. In the gap between arriving and receiving it, keep private travel insurance, emergency care is available to everyone regardless, but the card is what unlocks routine free care. See getting your CPR number for the step that triggers it.

What you use it for

Carry it always. You scan or show it when you visit your GP, a hospital, a specialist or a pharmacy, and it doubles as ID at libraries, the post office and many shops. Your GP is your gatekeeper to the system: routine issues start there, and they refer you onward to specialists or hospitals when needed. You can view records and book GP appointments at sundhed.dk using your MitID.

Digital version and replacements

There is a digital health card app that works exactly like the plastic card, handy as a backup. If your card is lost or damaged you order a replacement online with MitID for a DKK 40 fee (2026); a new card after a change of address or name is free and sent automatically. No MitID yet? Borgerservice (Citizen Service) can help, bring your CPR number and passport.

Check current detailsFees and processing times change. Confirm on borger.dk or your kommune's international site.

Common questions

How do I get a yellow health card in Denmark?

You do not apply separately, it is ordered automatically when your CPR number is registered, and posted to you about 2-3 weeks later.

What is the sundhedskort used for?

You show it at every GP, hospital, specialist and pharmacy visit; it also works as ID at libraries and many shops.

How much does a replacement health card cost?

DKK 40 (2026) if lost or damaged, ordered online with MitID. A new card after an address or name change is free.

Is there a digital yellow card?

Yes, a health card app works the same way as the plastic card and is a useful backup.