Asylum (Asyl) 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 provides protection for people fleeing persecution, but has some of the most restrictive asylum policies in the EU:
- Convention status (§ 7(1)): Granted if you face persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership of a particular social group.
- Protection status (§ 7(2)): Granted if you face torture, inhuman treatment, or a real risk of death penalty. This status is temporary and subject to regular review.
- Temporary protection (§ 7(3)): For situations of general violence in your home country — granted for 1 year and reviewed annually.
- Dublin Regulation: If you passed through another EU country first, Denmark may return you there to have your claim processed.
- Processing: Claims are processed by Udlændingestyrelsen (Immigration Service). Appeals go to the Flygtningenævnet (Refugee Appeals Board).
When does it apply?
- You are in Denmark and fear persecution or serious harm if returned to your home country.
- You have arrived in Denmark and wish to apply for asylum.
What to Do If You Need to Apply for Asylum in Denmark
- Apply for asylum immediately upon arrival — tell the police at the border or go to the nearest police station and say you want to seek asylum.
- You will be referred to a reception centre (Sandholm) for registration and initial processing.
- You will be assigned a lawyer (free of charge) for the asylum interview.
- Be honest and detailed in your asylum interview — describe your persecution clearly and provide any supporting documents.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't destroy your identity documents — it delays your case and may be viewed negatively.
- Don't provide false information — inconsistencies can undermine your credibility.
- Don't leave the country while your claim is pending — it may be treated as withdrawal of your application.
- Don't work without authorisation — asylum seekers may work after 6 months if specific conditions are met.
Common Questions
What types of asylum protection does Denmark offer?
Three types under § 7 of Udlændingeloven: Convention status (§ 7(1)) for persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or social group; Protection status (§ 7(2)) for a real risk of torture, inhuman treatment, or death penalty (temporary, subject to review); and Temporary protection (§ 7(3)) for general violence, granted for 1 year and reviewed annually.
How do I apply for asylum on arrival in Denmark?
Tell the police at the border or go to the nearest police station and say you want to seek asylum. You will be referred to Sandholm reception centre for registration and initial processing, assigned a lawyer free of charge, and interviewed. Be honest and detailed — inconsistencies with your interview record can undermine credibility.
Can I be returned from Denmark under the Dublin Regulation?
Yes, if you passed through another EU country first before reaching Denmark. That country may be responsible for processing your asylum claim, and Denmark may return you there. Do not destroy your identity documents — it delays your case and is viewed negatively by Udlændingestyrelsen (Immigration Service) and the Flygtningenævnet (Refugee Appeals Board).
When does it apply — asylum (asyl)?
You are in Denmark and fear persecution or serious harm if returned to your home country.You have arrived in Denmark and wish to apply for asylum.
What should I do if I have arrived in Denmark and want to apply for asylum or refugee status?
Apply for asylum immediately upon arrival — tell the police at the border or go to the nearest police station and say you want to seek asylum.You will be referred to a reception centre (Sandholm) for registration and initial processing.You will be assigned a lawyer (free of charge) for the asylum interview.Be honest and detailed in your asylum interview — describe your persecution clearly and provide any supporting documents.
What should you NOT do — asylum (asyl)?
Don't destroy your identity documents — it delays your case and may be viewed negatively.Don't provide false information — inconsistencies can undermine your credibility.Don't leave the country while your claim is pending — it may be treated as withdrawal of your application.Don't work without authorisation — asylum seekers may work after 6 months if specific conditions are met.