Student Residence Permits and Study in Denmark
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Danish Acts of Parliament (love), executive orders (bekendtgørelser), and official government guidance. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
Denmark attracts approximately 30,000 international students each year, with many English-taught programmes at bachelor's and master's level. Non-EU/EEA students need a student residence permit.
To qualify, you must be enrolled in a full-time higher education programme at a recognized Danish institution. EU/EEA students are admitted tuition-free, while non-EU/EEA students pay tuition fees ranging from DKK 45,000 to DKK 120,000 per year (approximately 6,000–16,100 euros), depending on the institution and programme.
You must demonstrate sufficient funds to support yourself — approximately DKK 6,397 per month (about 860 euros, 2024 rates). This can be shown through a bank statement, scholarship letter, or other financial documentation.
Student permit holders may work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during June, July, and August. The permit is issued for the duration of the study programme, up to a maximum of 2 years at a time. The application fee is DKK 2,310 (approximately 310 euros).
After completing a Danish degree, you can apply for a job-search residence permit (Establishment Card) valid for 3 years. This is one of the most generous post-study schemes in Europe, allowing you to work full-time while seeking employment that matches your qualifications.
When does it apply?
- You are a non-EU/EEA national admitted to a full-time programme at a Danish university or university college.
- You are an exchange student attending a Danish institution for one or two semesters.
- You are a PhD student at a Danish university — PhD students typically receive a work permit rather than a student permit.
- You have completed your studies in Denmark and want to stay to find employment.
What to Do If You Want to Study at a Danish University as an International Student
- Apply to a Danish institution through the institution's own portal or UCAS/optagelse.dk — application deadlines are typically March 15 for non-EU students.
- Apply for a student residence permit on nyidanmark.dk after receiving your admission letter — process takes 1–3 months.
- Show proof of funds — DKK 6,397/month for the duration of your studies, or approximately DKK 76,764 per year.
- Register for CPR (civil registration number) at the International Citizen Service after arrival — this gives you access to healthcare and banking.
- After graduation, apply for the Establishment Card within 2 months of completing your degree — it allows 3 years to find qualified work.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not exceed 20 hours of work per week during the academic year — violating this condition can lead to permit revocation.
- Do not drop out without informing SIRI — your residence permit is conditional on active enrollment.
- Do not arrive without valid health insurance — you need coverage until your CPR number is active (typically 1–2 weeks after registration).
- Do not wait too long to apply for the Establishment Card after graduation — missing the window means you may have to leave Denmark.
Common Questions
When does it apply — student residence permits and study in denmark?
You are a non-EU/EEA national admitted to a full-time programme at a Danish university or university college.You are an exchange student attending a Danish institution for one or two semesters.You are a PhD student at a Danish university — PhD students typically receive a work permit rather than a student permit.You have completed your studies in Denmark and want to stay to find employment.
What should I do if I have been admitted to a Danish university and need to apply for a student residence permit?
Apply to a Danish institution through the institution's own portal or UCAS/optagelse.dk — application deadlines are typically March 15 for non-EU students.Apply for a student residence permit on nyidanmark.dk after receiving your admission letter — process takes 1–3 months.Show proof of funds — DKK 6,397/month for the duration of your studies, or approximately DKK 76,764 per year.Register for CPR (civil registration number) at the International Citizen Service after arrival — this gives you access to healthcare and banking.After graduation, apply for the Establishment Card within 2 months of c...
What should you NOT do — student residence permits and study in denmark?
Do not exceed 20 hours of work per week during the academic year — violating this condition can lead to permit revocation.Do not drop out without informing SIRI — your residence permit is conditional on active enrollment.Do not arrive without valid health insurance — you need coverage until your CPR number is active (typically 1–2 weeks after registration).Do not wait too long to apply for the Establishment Card after graduation — missing the window means you may have to leave Denmark.
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