Navigating Denmark's Immigration Process: Essential Tips for Newcomers

Moving to Denmark is more than just packing the luggage and booking a plane ticket; it requires careful planning, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the immigration process. Denmark is an attractive country known for its high living standards, excellent healthcare, and friendly culture. As you relocate there, you might want to send money from Denmark to loved ones back home or manage your finances effectively. 

Understanding the immigration steps and remittances is really important for newcomers. This guide will provide the essential information you need to settle down successfully in Denmark.

Understanding Visa and Residency Requirements

The first step in relocating to Denmark is understanding the visa and residency options available to you. The requirements can vary significantly depending on your nationality and reason for moving.

Requirements for Europeans and Swiss Nationals

If you are from a visa-exempt country, like any European country or Switzerland., you can visit Denmark for up to 90 days without needing a visa. However, if your plans include working or residing long-term, a residency visa is necessary.

Requirements for Third-Country Nationals

If you are a citizen of a country outside the EU or Switzerland and want to relocate to Denmark, you will need to apply for a visa.

For stays longer than three months, obtaining a residence permit is necessary. To get this permit, you must first apply for a long-term visa that allows you to work, study, or reside in Denmark for more than 90 days.

You can move to Denmark for an extended duration in the following ways:

• For Employment: If you have a job offer in Denmark.
• For Family Reunification: If you are joining family members who already live in Denmark.
• For Education: If you plan to study at a Danish educational institution.

Work Visa

To get a work visa in Denmark, you need to:

• Have a job offer from a Danish employer.
• Meet the skills and qualifications for the job.
• Earn a salary that meets Danish standards.

If you want to send money online, a work visa is essential to get a job there.

2. Family Reunification Visa

To be eligible for a family reunification visa, you must:

• Be a close family member (spouse, partner, or child) of someone living in Denmark.
• Ensure your family member has a valid residence permit or Danish citizenship.
• Show that your family members can support you financially.

3. Student Visa

To qualify for a student visa, you need to:

• Be accepted into a recognized Danish educational institution.
• Enroll in a program in a registered institute in Denmark.
• Prove you have enough money or a valid scholarship to cover living costs and tuition.

Residency and Work Permits

This permit, typically valid for up to five years, allows you to work and access healthcare services. The application for residency and work permits can be submitted simultaneously, streamlining the process. Once approved, don’t forget to contact the Danish tax authorities (SKAT) for your tax number (CPR), which is essential for working legally in Denmark.

Permanent Residence: How?

After living in Denmark for eight years, or four years with a specific income level, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency. 

How to Get Nationality of Denmark?

In Denmark, there are three ways to become a citizen: by descent, through naturalization, and for people from nearby countries (like Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Iceland).

By Descent

If one of your parents is a Danish citizen, you can become a citizen too.

By Declaration

If you come from a nearby country, you can apply for citizenship after living in Denmark for seven years.

By Naturalization

If you have lived in Denmark legally for at least eight years, you can apply for citizenship.

Opening a Bank Account

Opening a bank account in Denmark is generally a simple process for expats. To get started, you must provide a valid photo ID, proof of your address, evidence of your employment or student status, and a CPR (Centrale Personregister) number. This CPR number is essential for all official activities in Denmark, including banking.

If you prefer working with an international bank, check to see if they have branches or services in Denmark. This can make managing your finances easier.

Remittances: A Guide for Expats

After your bank account is active, you might want to send money from Denmark to other countries or back home. Many traditional banks charge high fees and provide poor exchange rates for international money transfers. So, make a wise decision. Choose ACE Money Transfer, which offers better rates and lower fees for making a global money transfer.

FAQs

Can I apply for citizenship if I have a criminal record?

Having a criminal record may affect your citizenship application. Minor offenses may not be an issue, but serious crimes could lead to denial.

How long does the citizenship application process take?

The processing time for citizenship applications can vary but often takes several months.

Do I have to give up my original citizenship to become a Danish citizen?

Denmark allows dual citizenship, meaning you may not have to give up your original citizenship when you become a Danish citizen. However, it’s important to check the laws of your home country regarding dual citizenship.

Can I bring my family members when I become a citizen?

Yes, once you become a Danish citizen, you can apply for a family reunification visa for your close family members, such as your spouse and children.

Is health insurance required for residency in Denmark?

Yes, health insurance is mandatory for residents in Denmark. As a resident, you will have access to the public healthcare system.