A Bank Account in Denmark in 2025 | exploringdenmark

A Bank Account in Denmark in 2025

Everything internationals, expats, and students need to know about opening a Danish bank account: documents, digital banking, fees, top banks, and practical tips for 2025.

Overview: Danish Bank Accounts

You need a Danish bank account for salary, bills, and daily life. The process is straightforward, but paperwork and waiting times can be a challenge for newcomers. Here’s how to get started.

  • CPR required: You must have a CPR number to open an account.
  • ID check: Bring your passport or EU national ID card, plus proof of address.
  • Waiting time: Approval often takes 1–3 weeks, especially in major cities.

See below for step-by-step instructions, the best banks for internationals, and tips to avoid delays.

🏦
Did you know? Most Danish salaries and welfare payments require a NemKonto (designated bank account)—so this is your first financial step after registration.

How to Open a Bank Account

📋 1. Register & Get CPR You must register your address and get your CPR number (and yellow health card) first.
🪪 2. Gather Documents Bring your passport (or EU ID), CPR, proof of address, employment/student letter.
🏦 3. Book a Bank Appointment Most banks require you to book online or call ahead—walk-ins are rare.
✍️ 4. Apply & Sign Complete KYC forms (anti-money laundering), sign digitally or in person.
⏳ 5. Wait for Approval Approval takes 1–3 weeks. Some banks give you an account number immediately; others wait for final checks.
💳 6. Get Your Card Debit card and online banking access arrive by post, usually within 10–14 days.

What You Need to Open an Account

🪪 ID (Passport or EU ID) Bring your valid passport or EU/EEA national identity card.
🧾 CPR Number Your Danish Civil Registration Number, given after you register your address.
📃 Proof of Address E.g., rental contract or utility bill with your name and Danish address.
📄 Employment or Student Letter Proof of job, internship, or university admission (may be required).
📧 NemID/MitID (Optional) Online banking and account access is easier with digital ID (get it after your CPR).
💶 Initial Deposit Some banks require a minimum deposit (e.g. 100–500 DKK).

Typical Bank Fees in Denmark

💸 Monthly Fees Most banks charge DKK 20–45/month for standard accounts (youth/students: free or reduced).
🏧 ATM Withdrawals Free from your bank’s ATMs; 5–10 DKK fee for other banks or abroad.
💳 Debit/Credit Cards Dankort is free/inexpensive; international Visa/Mastercard may have annual fees.
🌍 International Transfers Expect fees (DKK 30–100+) for foreign currency transfers; consider Wise or Revolut for savings.
❗ Overdrafts Usually only for established customers; rates are high (8–15%).
📱 Online Banking Included with most accounts; free mobile apps for all major banks.

Best Banks for Internationals & Students

🏦 Danske Bank danskebank.dk – Biggest bank in Denmark; English-speaking support, student accounts.
💳 Nordea nordea.dk – Large Nordic bank, easy digital onboarding, good for EU/EEA expats.
🏦 Sydbank sydbank.dk – Friendly for newcomers; local branches in all regions.
🌐 N26 n26.com – Digital-only, no branches; great for EU students, but you still need a Danish account for NemKonto.
📱 Lunar lunar.app – App-based Danish bank, easy setup for internationals, low fees.
💸 Arbejdernes Landsbank al-bank.dk – Non-profit, English info, good for families and expats.

Tips & Pitfalls for Expats

⏰ Apply Early Start your application as soon as you have your CPR and proof of address. Banks get very busy at semester start.
📑 Bring All Documents Missing just one paper can delay your account by weeks. Double-check what’s needed with your bank.
📲 Download Banking Apps Danish banks offer excellent digital services—set up mobile banking right away.
💬 English Support Most banks have English-language phone and online support, but not all local branches.
💳 Don’t Lose Your Card If your debit card is lost/stolen, block it in your app and call the bank’s hotline right away.
📧 Watch for Account Letters PINs, debit cards, and codes often arrive by post in separate letters—don’t miss them!

Useful Resources & External Links

🏦 Life in Denmark: Banking Official info (English)
📝 NemKonto Official NemKonto registration
💳 NemID & MitID Digital ID for online banking
📝 CPR Number & Digital ID Register your address & get CPR
🇩🇰 Living in Denmark Settling in and daily life
💸 Cost of Living Bank fees and monthly expenses
💶 Salary & Tax How salary is paid in DK

Frequently Asked Questions

🪪 Can I open a bank account without a CPR? No. Danish banks require a CPR number to open a regular account.
💶 Are there free accounts for students? Yes. Most major banks offer free or reduced-fee accounts to students under 29.
🌍 Can I use Wise or N26? Yes, but you still need a Danish account for NemKonto (salary, public payments).
✈️ Can I open an account from abroad? No. You must be registered and living in Denmark first.
💳 When do I get my card? Cards arrive by post 1–2 weeks after approval. You’ll get a PIN separately.
📱 Is mobile banking available in English? Yes—most major banks offer English-language apps and support.