Moving to Denmark
Step-by-step Immigration Guide

If you're considering making Denmark your new home, you're in for a country known for its commitment to equality, outstanding services, and breathtaking landscapes. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a detailed understanding of the relocation process and essential information to help you prepare for your move.

Denmark is open to individuals seeking to establish themselves there; however, not all can enter freely. Specific nationalities must apply for a Denmark visa to enter the country. Here's a more in-depth look at the eligibility criteria:

EU/EEA/Swiss and Nordic citizens can enter Denmark without a visa. However, for stays exceeding three months, you must acquire an EU residence document. You'll also need a Civil Registration System (CPR) number, obtainable by presenting your EU residence document to the local municipality.

For third-country citizens (those from outside the EU/EEA/Swiss and Nordic regions), securing a Denmark visa and potentially a residence permit is essential for stays beyond three months. You must initially apply for a Denmark long-stay visa, which permits work, study, or residence in Denmark for more than 90 days.

If your plan is to relocate to Denmark for work, you must apply for a long-stay work visa, which also includes a residence permit. The application process is conducted online through the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI). Your work visa's validity will align with the duration of your employment contract. Upon arriving in Denmark, you'll need to register your Danish address with the local municipality to receive a Danish CPR (personal registration number).

For those relocating to Denmark for family reunification, you'll need to apply for a family visa. The eligibility criteria include being a partner/spouse of a Danish citizen, a minor child of a Danish citizen, or a partner/spouse of someone studying/working in Denmark with a valid residence permit. After your arrival in Denmark, you must register your Danish address with the local municipality, resulting in the issuance of a Danish personal identification number (CPR). Your family reunification application approval will lead to the issuance of a temporary residence permit, with the possibility of extensions as long as the eligibility requirements are met.

If you plan to move to Denmark for educational purposes, you'll need to apply for a student visa and the accompanying residence permit. Similar to previous visas, applying for a student visa automatically entails applying for a residence permit. The duration of your stay in Denmark will align with the length of your study program. You can apply for an extension of your residence permit for essential reasons. After arriving in Denmark, the initial step is to register your Danish address with the local municipality, after which you'll receive a Danish CPR number. Additionally, after graduating, you can remain in Denmark for six months to search for employment. If you secure a job during this period, you must apply for a work permit and a new residence permit.

Denmark offers numerous advantages and some challenges:

If you plan to relocate with your pets to Denmark, you'll need to meet specific requirements:

Number of Pets: You can bring up to five pets with you to Denmark. It's advisable to accompany your pets when they enter the country. If you cannot do so, an authorized person must accompany the animals at least five days before or after your move.

Identification: Dogs and cats must have a microchip or a readable tattoo for identification. If you're coming from another European country, you'll need a valid EU passport and proof of rabies vaccination for your pets. For pets from third countries, obtain a veterinarian certificate from a veterinarian in your country of residence.

Restricted Breeds: Denmark prohibits the entry of certain dog breeds, including:

• Pitt Bull Terrier.
• Tosa Inu.
• American Staffordshire Terrier.
• Fila Brasileiro.
• Dogo Argentino.
• American Bulldog.
• Boerboel.
• Kangal.
• Central Asian Shepherd Dog.
• Caucasian Shepherd Dog.
• South Russian Shepherd Dog.
• Tornjak.
• Sarplaninac.

Before relocating your pets, ensure they meet all health and identification requirements. This will ensure a smooth transition for your beloved animals to Denmark.

Denmark offers a range of cities, each with its unique appeal, making it a country suitable for various preferences and lifestyles. Here are some cities to consider when deciding where to move within Denmark:

Moving your belongings to Denmark can be tailored to your needs and budget. The method of transportation, be it by sea, air, or land, will depend on your location and the urgency of the move.
For a cost-effective option, land transportation may be preferred, although it might take more time to reach Denmark, depending on your point of origin. Shipping your belongings by sea is another budget-friendly choice, albeit it involves a longer transit time. However, if you require your belongings promptly and are willing to allocate more funds, air shipping is the most suitable alternative.
To ensure a smooth import process, there are some regulations to follow when moving your belongings to Denmark:

1. You must be present in Denmark when your belongings arrive.
2. You should have legal residency in Denmark when your belongings arrive.
3. You have up to one year to import your belongings after entering the country, and your belongings should be at least six months old.

It's important to note that there are items that are prohibited from import, including plants, certain food items (with restrictions depending on the country of origin), hazardous materials, and animals other than domestic, exotic, or endangered species.

You can apply for permanent residency in Denmark if you have consistently lived in the country for eight years or more. Whether you arrived for work, study, or family reasons, you must submit your application through the Danish Immigration Service or SIRI.

Denmark offers citizenship through descent, naturalization, and declaration (applicable to Nordic citizens):

• Citizenship by Descent: If one of your parents is a Danish citizen, you may qualify for citizenship by descent.
• Citizenship by Naturalization: To attain citizenship through naturalization, you must have legally resided in Denmark for at least eight years.
• Citizenship by Declaration (Nordic Citizens): Nordic citizens can obtain Danish citizenship by submitting a declaration. The key requirement is having permanent residence in Denmark for the last seven years.

Denmark permits dual citizenship since September 1, 2015. Regaining Danish citizenship allows you to retain your previous citizenship, acquiring dual nationality. However, it's crucial to ensure that your current country of citizenship also allows dual nationality for a smooth transition.