A residence permit is required for people who want to work, seek family reunification, study, or stay in Denmark for a more extended period of time. You apply for a Denmark temporary residence permit through the Danish Immigration Service or the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI).
There are two types of Danish residence permits:
- Temporary residence permit. Temporary permits are valid for 1-2 years, depending on the type (study, work, family reunification, etc.)
- Permanent residence permit. This permit is valid indefinitely, but can only be obtained after living in Denmark for at least eight years.
Types of Temporary Residence Permits
There are different types of temporary residence permits for Denmark, depending on their purpose:
1) Denmark residence permit for work (Denmark work visa).
2) Denmark residence permit for studies (Denmark student visa).
3) Denmark residence permit for family reunification (Denmark family visa).
4) Denmark residence permit for investment (Denmark start-up visa).
How to Get a Temporary Residence Permit for Denmark?
You must initiate the process for a temporary residence permit through the website of the Danish Immigration Service or the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI). Depending on where you live, you may also have to submit an in-person application at a Danish representation office abroad. If you are already in Denmark, you can submit the application at a local SIRI branch.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Denmark temporary residence permit:
1) Create Case Order ID. On the SIRI website, create a case order ID and choose the type of residence permit you are applying for (work, study, family reunification). Complete the sections with your personal information and receive the case order ID number.
2) Pay the Fee. Pay the fee and print the receipt payment. You need to submit the receipt together with the application.
3) Compile the Required Documents. Ensure you have all the documents and your biometrics (photo, fingerprints) to submit with the application. If any of the documents are missing, you must have a compelling reason, or your application may be rejected.
4) Fill in the Application. Make sure to choose the application form that is required for the type of residence you want to apply. Every permit type has a special application form.
5) Submit Your Biometrics. Take your facial photo and fingerprints recorded at the Danish Immigration Center. If you have to submit the biometrics abroad, you will be required to pay a fee to the Danish mission handling your application.
Note: If you choose to submit your application for a residence permit at a location where Denmark is represented by Norway, keep in mind that the Norwegian fee is higher than the Danish fee.
Denmark Residence Permit Fees
The fee depends on the type of permit you are applying for:
- Residence permit for work: DKK 4,405 (appx. €590)
- Residence permit for studies: DKK 1,890 (appx. €250)
- Residence permit for family reunification: DKK 2,920 (appx. €390)
Document Checklist for Danish Temporary Residence Permit Application
When you apply for a Danish temporary residence permit, you must submit the following documents:
1) Documentation of paid application fee. Submit the printed receipt.
2) Original passport. Valid for three months longer than your intended stay.
3) Passport-size photo. Your photos must follow the Schengen visa guidelines.
4) Completed application form. Fill in the application form that’s available on the SIRI website truthfully and completely.
5) Proof you have a place to stay. Prove that you have a place to live in Denmark or can afford one.
6) Proof you can support yourself financially. For a work permit, you can present your employment contract and salary. As an international student, your proof of income can be a scholarship.
7) Additional documents for different types of permits, such as:
a) Employment contract (residence permit for work).
b) Letter of acceptance to university (residence permit for studies).
c) Proof of family relationship (residence permit for family reunification).
Can I Extend my Temporary Residence Permit?
Yes, you can extend a temporary residence permit, if you continue to meet the conditions. For example, you can extend a work residence permit if you are still employed. You can extend a study permit if you are still enrolled in university, going to your classes, and passing exams.
To extend your temporary residence permit, you must apply for a residence extension no earlier than three months before your current permit expires. If you fail to apply for a residence extension before your permit expires, your application will be rejected, and you will be required to leave Denmark.
If you decide to apply for a temporary residence extension, you are required to pay a fee.
How Long Does a Temporary Residence Permit Take to Process?
The processing time for a Denmark temporary residence permit is three months. The processing time is calculated from the date you submit your application.
Please note that the processing time for temporary residence permits varies according to the type of residence permit you are applying for.
How Can I Get a Residence Card?
If you are granted a Danish residence permit, you will receive a residence card automatically as proof of your right to reside in Denmark. You will receive your card in the Civil Registration System (CPR) 2-3 weeks after being granted a residence permit and registered your address in Denmark.
If you lose your residence card, you must complete a police declaration, signed and stamped by the police. Then you need to submit the declaration together with the application for a new residence card. A new card normally costs DKK 1,200 (appx. € 160).
Note: Carry your residence card always with you. You must have it in Denmark and if you travel to another country during your residence in Denmark.
Difference Between a Temporary and a Permanent Residence Permit
Temporary Residence Permit:
1) Duration: 1-2 years
2) Conditions:
a)You must be over the age of 18.
b) You must have a letter of admission from your university (study permit) or an employment contract.
c)You must afford to support yourself financially during your stay.
d) ou must have a travel insurance policy.
e)You must have a place to stay.
f) You must have a clean police record.
g) Language proficiency in Danish.
3) Benefits:
a) Healthcare
b) Education
c) Travel
d) Work
Permanent Residence Permit:
1) Duration: Indefinite
2) Conditions:
a) You must have lived in Denmark for more than eight years.
b) You need to be over the age of 18.
c) You still need to meet the requirements of your current residence permit.
d) You must have a clean police record.
e) You need to accept a declaration of residence and self-support.
f) You must be currently employed.
g) You must not have any overdue public debts.
h) You must not work against the establishment of your identity.
i) You must pass the Danish language test 2.
j) You must have been employed for the last three years and six months.
3) Benefits:
a) Free Education
b) Free Healthcare
c) Child sevices
d) Travel
e)Work
If you were a regular resident of Denmark for eight years or more you can proceed to apply for a permanent residence permit. A permanent residence permit is issued for individuals who want to work, seek family reunification, or study in Denmark.
You apply for a Denmark residence permit through the Danish Immigration Service or the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI).
How to Get Permanent Residence in Denmark?
These are the requirements for a permanent residence in Denmark:
1) You must be over the age of 18.
2) You still need to meet the requirements for your current residence permit. You need to be a resident in Denmark at the time the Immigration Services decides about your residence permit application. If for any reason you are outside of Denmark you need to return to the country.
3) You need to have 8 years’ legal residency in Denmark. You should be a legal resident of Denmark for at least 8 uninterrupted years at the time the Immigration Service reaches a decision for the residence application.
4) You must not have been convicted of certain crimes. If you were senteced for a crime to more than six months you will be ineligible for a permanent residence permit.
5) You must not have any overdue public debts.
6)You cannot qualify for a residence permit if you have overdue payments for any of the following:
a) Social Service Act or Active Social Policy Act benefits
b) Child support paid in advance
c) Day-care payment
d) Overpaid housing benefits
e) Housing-subsidy loan
f)Taxes and levies
7) You must not have received certain forms of social benefits. You must not have received certain forms of social benefits within four years of applying for a permanent residence permit or until the time when the permanent residence permit is granted.
8) You need to accept a declaration of residence and self-support. The declaration of residence and self-support is included in the application (online and printable)
9) You must be employed. You need to have a job at the time the Immigration Service reaches a decision for your application.
The requirements are:
a)You need to be employed in a non-terminated, permanent position
b) You can prove that you will continue to be employed, or
c) You are self-employed
d) You must not have worked against the establishment of your identity.
You can be considered to have worked against the establishment of your identity if:
- You have presented falsified identity documents including a passport or a birth certificate
- You have presented another person’s identity documentou have given false information about your personal data (name, date of birth, country of birth or citizenship)
10) You need to pass the Danish language test 2.
You must pass the Danish language test 2 or a Danish exam of an equal or higher level, such as:
a) Danskuddannelsernes Prøve i Dansk 2
b) FVU reading exam (level 2 or 3)
c) Any exam considered to be of an equivalent or higher level than Prøve i Dansk 3
11)You need to have been employed for at least 3 years and 6 months. The following types of employment can be considered as regular employment:
a) Paid employment (minimum 30 hours per week, or 120 hours per month).
b) Work as a self-employed if the work carries the same weight as a regular full-time employment.
c) Working for a business owned by your spouse.
d) Sick leave, holiday, absence to care for family members and parental leave etc, within the terms and conditions of your employment.
e) Flexjob – If it meets the terms established by the Active Employment Policy Act.
In case you meet the following requirements, you will qualify for a permanent residence permit after only four years of legal residence in Denmark (the standard time is eight years):
- You must pass the Danish language test 3.
- You must have been employed for the last four years.
- You must pass the active citizen exam or display active citizenship.
- You must have an annual income above the average amount .
Who can be exempted from meeting the requirements?
Individuals with a disability, pensioners, or early-age pensioners may be exempt from certain permanent residency requirements.
Pensioners or people who have been granted an early-age pension are exempt from meeting the following requirements:
1) Employment for the last three years and six months during the past four years.
2) Employed for the time the Immigration Service issues a decision for your residence application.
3) Employment for at least four years during the past four years and six months
4) Must have an average annual taxable income of €40,600 for the past two years
If you qualify for a permanent residence, you can continue the application process for a permanent permit at the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI).
How to Apply for Permanent Residence in Denmark?
The process of application for a permanent residence in Denmark includes fice simple steps:
1) Create a case order ID on the SIRI website (SB-ID)
2) Pay the fee
3) Compile the required documents
4) Fill in the application
5) Have your biometric features recorded
Step 1. Create Case Order ID
When submitting a permanent residence application, you must create a case order ID on the SIRI website. Choose the type of residence permit you are applying for and provide your personal information (name, surname, email, etc.) After you are done, simply click “Create Case order ID” and receive your case number.
Step 2. Pay the Fee
After creating the SB-ID, enter your case number and pay a fee of DKK 10,330 (1400 EUR). You can pay the fee with:
- A card (Dankort, VISA, MasterCard),
- Bank transfer,
- Using Danish internet bank,
- The post office, or a bank
Step 3. Compile the Required Documents
Before applying for permanent residence, make sure you have all the required documents from the checklist. This includes your Danish language test, proof of employment and housing, etc.
Step 4. Fill in the Application
When applying for a permanent residence permit, you must use the Start TU1-4 application form. You can use this application form if:
- You are a reunified spouse. You and your partner need to fill out the application together.
- Your residence is based on family reunification, asylum, or religious work. Only the applicant needs to fill in the application.
- Your residence is based on employment or studies, or you are an accompanying family member based in this. Only the applicant needs to fill in the application.
Step 5. Have your biometric features recorded
You are required to submit your fingerprints and a facial photo within four weeks of submitting your application. You can record your biometrics at the Immigration Service’s Citizen Service but must book an appointment before showing up.
Reminder: If you are granted a residence permit, that permit is valid for as long as you are living permanently in Denmark.
Document Checklist for Danish Permanent Residence Application
When you apply for a Danish permanent residence permit, you are required to submit the following documents:
1) Documentation of paid application fee. Print and attach the payment receipt.
2) Documentation that you meet the housing requirement. Submit this if you have been granted a residence permit based on family reunification and you and your spouse/partner live together.
3) Documentation of Danish-language abilities. You need a document such as a Prøve i Dansk certificate or a Folkeskolen completion certificate.
4) Documentation of employment. You must submit documents such as your tax returns or an employment contract.
5) Documentation of your income. You have to prove you received an income during your time in Denmark, such as through payslips or tax returns.
6) Documentation of active citizenship (an exam certificate or a statement from a board or an association).
7) Documentation of disability in the form of a doctor’s statement. (If applicable)
8) Documentation issued by your municipality that you have been granted an early-age pension. (If applicable)
9) Documentation that you have taken care of a seriously ill child. (If applicable)
10) Documentation of foreign residence in connection with work. (If applicable)
How Long Does a Permanent Residence Permit Take to Process?
The processing time at the Danish Immigration Service or the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI) for a Denmark permanent residence permit is ten months.
How Long After Permanent Residency Can I Apply for Danish Citizenship?
Before applying for Danish citizenship, the applicant must have had eight years of legal stay in Denmark and live up to the newest citizenship requirements. A permanent residence is a prerequisite when you apply for Danish citizenship. If you have resided in Denmark for the required period, you can apply for citizenship.
Visiting, working, studying, and living in Denmark is easy, but obtaining Denmark citizenship is another thing. When it comes to citizenship, Denmark plays no games. In order to become a Danish citizen, you must meet all the Denmark citizenship requirements and go through a detailed application process.
Benefits of Denmark Citizenship
Denmark citizenship comes with great benefits:
- You become eligible to live, work, and study in Denmark and other EU countries.
- You can travel in and out of Denmark anytime you want.
- You are allowed to become citizens of other countries.
- Your children will automatically acquire Danish citizenship
- Free education and healthcare.
How to Get Denmark Citizenship?
Danish citizenship can be acquired in the following ways:
1) By descent. You get Danish citizenship automatically at birth if one of your parents is a Danish citizen. Citizenship is also granted to children under the age of 12, who are adopted by Danish citizens.
2) By naturalization. You must have lived in Denmark for at least 9 years before you can apply for citizenship.
3)
By declaration (Nordic citizens). Citizens of Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden can obtain citizenship by declaration after living in Denmark for seven years.
Denmark Citizenship by Descent
Children born after 1 July 2014 automatically acquire citizenship at birth if one of the parents is Danish. The citizenship of children born before that date depends on the rules which were on effect at the time.
For example, for children born between February 1, 1999, and June 30, 2014, the following rules apply:
- If the parents are married and one of them is Danish, then the child is considered a Danish citizen.
- If the parents are unmarried, and only the father is Danish, the child acquires Danish citizenship only if he/she is born in Denmark.
- If a child born to a Danish father and foreign mother did not acquire citizenship at birth, the child will be eligible for citizenship if the parents get married before the child’s 18th birthday.
- A child found on Danish soil is considered a Danish citizen, unless otherwise stated.
Danish Citizenship by Naturalization
To obtain Denmark citizenship by naturalization, you must meet a number of conditions:
- You must submit a declaration of allegiance and loyalty.
- You must have an indefinite residence permit.
- You must have nine years of uninterrupted residence in Denmark.
- You must have a clean criminal record.
- You must not have any overdue debt.
- You must be able to support yourself financially.
- You must have been fully employed for at least three years and six months within the last four years.
- You must be proficient in the Danish language.
- You must pass the Denmark Citizenship Test.
- You must participate in the municipal constitution ceremony.
Danish Citizenship for Children of Naturalized Persons
You can become a Danish citizen alongside your parents if you meet the following conditions:
- You are unmarried
- You are under the age of 18
- You live in Denmark and have a legal residence (valid residence permit or a valid residence registration certificate).
- You are not charged with or have committed any crime.
- The parent with whom you will be admitted has full or shared custody of you.
- The other parent has given his or her consent (for shared custody).
If you cannot be admitted as an accompanying (secondary) person to your parent, you may be admitted as a main applicant if:
1)You were adopted by Danish citizens.
2) You were born out of marriage by a foreign mother and a Danish father between the dates of 11 October 1993 to 30 June 2014.
3) You could not become a Danish citizen due to termination of cohabitation.
4) You were born stateless in Denmark.
Denmark Citizenship for Citizens of Nordic Countries
Citizens of Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden can obtain Danish citizenship by submitting a declaration to the Ministry of Immigration and Integration Affairs, the National Ombudsman in the Faroe Islands, or the National Ombudsman in Greenland.
To do this you must meet the requirements:
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- You must have had permanent residence in this country for the last seven years.
- You must not have a criminal record during this period.
Danish Citizenship Application Process
You have to apply for Danish citizenship through the Ministry of Immigration and Integration’s digital application (
NemID). Before you apply, you must pass the Danish language and citizenship test.
During the online application, you will be required to upload copies of the following documents:
1) A copy of your passport (only the page with passport photo and information about the applicant).
2) Copy of indefinite residence permit.
3) Copy of your Danish language test.
4) Copy of proof that you have passed the citizenship test.
5) Any medical documentation (if you want a dispensation from specific requirements).
6) Documentation of custody, if a child under 18 is covered by the application as a secondary person. If you are married to the child’s parent and share joint custody in themarriage, documentation of custody is not required.
When submitting the application, you have to pay a fee of DKK 4,000 (appx. €537) to the Ministry of Immigration and Integration. If you apply online, you must pay using Dankort.
Can I Lose My Denmark Citizenship?
You can lose your Danish citizenship in the following ways:
- If you acquired citizenship by birth but never lived in the Kingdom of Denmark by the age of 22 years (not applicable for stateless people).
- By court order, if you acquired your citizenship by fraudulent conduct (e.g., sham marriage).
- By court order, if you are convicted of a violation of one or more provisions of Parts 12 and 13 of the Danish Criminal Code (crimes against national security).
- By voluntary application to the Minister for Refugee, Immigration and Integration Affairs.
Does Denmark Allow Dual Citizenship?
Yes, Denmark has accepted dual citizenship since 1 September 2015. You can have both Danish citizenship and another citizenship. For dual citizenship to be possible, the country you have been a citizen of so far must also allow it.
Denmark Citizenship Test
The Denmark citizenship test has 45 questions and is a multiple-choice test on Danish culture, society, and history. 35 of the questions are based on study materials. The remaining ten questions are random; five relate to current events, and five relate to Danish values (freedom of expression, equality, the relationship between religion and legislation, etc.)
To pass the citizenship test, you must have a minimum of 36 correct answers, including four on the Danish values.
Before sitting for the test, you will be required to show a valid photo ID, such as your residence card, passport, driving license, etc.
To register and pay for the Denmark citizenship test, click
here.
Denmark Citizenship by Investment
Denmark does not have direct citizenship by investment program. Investors can apply for a Startup visa, which grants them a renewable two-year residence permit. You can only get Danish citizenship after living in Denmark for nine years.
Denmark Citizenship by Marriage
Spouses of Danish citizens can obtain Danish citizenship only after 6-8 years of uninterrupted residence in Denmark, depending on the duration of the marriage. You need to be legally and voluntarily married and must have permanent residence status in the Kingdom of Denmark to become a citizen.
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