Getting a Visa in Denmark | exploringdenmark

Getting a Visa in Denmark

Not sure how to get a Danish visa? Here’s your simple, up-to-date guide for internationals—covering who needs a visa, types, requirements, and step-by-step application.

Overview: Getting a Danish Visa

Denmark is part of the Schengen Area. Most non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens need a visa to visit, work, or study. Application rules and documents depend on your purpose and nationality.

  • EU/EEA/Swiss: No visa needed, but must register for stays over 3 months.
  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss: Visa required for most visits, plus residence/work permits for longer stays.

Always check official sources for the latest rules.

📝
Did you know? Schengen tourist visas are usually for 90 days in any 180-day period—overstaying can result in a ban.

Who Needs a Danish Visa?

🌍 EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens No visa needed for entry. Must register for stays over 3 months.
🌐 Visa-Free Countries Citizens of countries like USA, UK, Canada, Australia can visit for up to 90 days without a visa.
🛂 Other Nationals Most other nationalities must get a Schengen visa before arrival.

Types of Danish Visas

🛬 Short-Stay Visa (Schengen) For tourism, business, or family visits—up to 90 days. No work allowed.
🎓 Student Visa For studying at a Danish institution. Apply before arrival.
💼 Work Visa For employment or self-employment—requires job contract or business plan.
👨‍👩‍👧 Family Reunification For joining a partner, spouse, or parent legally living in Denmark.
🏅 Special Schemes For researchers, au pairs, religious workers, and others—see official site.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

🔎
Check your visa type: Use the official guide to identify which visa fits your stay.
📝
Gather documents: Passport, application form, photo, travel insurance, proof of funds, invitation letter (if needed), etc.
💻
Apply online or at embassy: Most applications are submitted via applyvisa.um.dk or at a Danish consulate/embassy.
📅
Book an appointment: Schedule an appointment for biometrics and interview, if required.
⏳
Wait for processing: Processing time varies by visa type—short-stay visas often 15–30 days.
📨
Collect your visa: Pick up your visa or receive it by post—check embassy/consulate instructions.

Documents & Fees

🛂 Valid Passport Must be valid at least 3 months beyond your stay.
📋 Application Form Fill out the correct form for your visa type—download from official site.
📸 Photo Recent, passport-sized, meeting official requirements.
💶 Fee Payment Visa fees vary (short-stay: ~€80; work/study: higher)—see embassy site for current prices.
🏦 Proof of Funds Bank statements or payslips to show you can support yourself.
🩺 Travel Insurance Required for Schengen visas—must cover up to €30,000.

Useful Resources & External Links

🌐 Official Visa Portal applyvisa.um.dk
🏢 Danish Immigration Service nyidanmark.dk
✈️ Schengen Info schengenvisainfo.com
📝 Visa Types for Non-EU Work & residence visas for non-EU citizens.
🎓 Study in Denmark Student visa and practical advice.
🏠 Finding Housing How to rent or buy as a newcomer.
💡 Moving to Denmark Guide Full relocation checklist for all newcomers.

Frequently Asked Questions

⏳ How long does it take to get a Danish visa? Short-stay visas: usually 15–30 days. Work/study/family permits can take 1–3+ months.
🏠 Can I work on a tourist/Schengen visa? No—work is strictly prohibited on a tourist or Schengen visa. Apply for a work permit if you want to work.
💳 Can I extend my visa after arrival? Schengen visas generally cannot be extended except in special cases (force majeure, illness, etc.).
📅 When should I apply? Apply at least 3 months before your planned trip, and only book travel after your visa is approved.
🛂 Where do I apply? Apply online or at the nearest Danish embassy/consulate—see applyvisa.um.dk.
📄 Do I need a residence permit too? Yes, if you want to stay longer than 90 days (work, study, join family, etc.), you must apply for a residence permit.