Danish Citizenship (Indfødsret) 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?
Danish citizenship is obtained by birth, adoption, or naturalisation (by act of parliament):
- By birth: A child acquires Danish citizenship if either parent is a Danish citizen (regardless of where the child is born).
- By naturalisation: Requires — at least 9 years of legal residence (reduced to 8 for refugees, 6 for Nordic citizens), passing the Danish language test (Prøve i Dansk 3), passing the citizenship test (indfødsretsprøven), self-sufficiency (no public benefits for 2 years), no serious criminal record, and signing a declaration of loyalty.
- Dual citizenship: Allowed since 2015 — you do not need to renounce your previous citizenship.
- Nordic fast track: Citizens of other Nordic countries (Sweden, Norway, Finland, Iceland) can acquire Danish citizenship through a simplified notification process after 7 years of residence.
When does it apply?
- You want to become a Danish citizen through naturalisation.
- You are checking whether your child qualifies for Danish citizenship by birth.
What to Do If You Want to Apply for Danish Citizenship
- Check the requirements on nyidanmark.dk — criteria change with each parliamentary agreement on citizenship.
- Pass the Danish language test (Prøve i Dansk 3) and the citizenship test.
- Apply through the online portal — your application is assessed by the Ministry of Immigration and Integration.
- If approved, your name is included in a naturalisation bill (indfødsretslov) passed by parliament — typically twice per year.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't apply before meeting all requirements — the application fee is non-refundable.
- Don't commit criminal offences during the process — even minor offences can delay or disqualify your application.
- Don't assume permanent residence equals citizenship — they are separate statuses with different requirements.
Common Questions
How long do I need to live in Denmark for citizenship?
At least 9 years of legal residence for standard naturalisation, reduced to 8 years for refugees and 6 years for Nordic citizens (Sweden, Norway, Finland, Iceland). You must also pass the Prøve i Dansk 3 language test and the indfødsretsprøven (citizenship test), demonstrate self-sufficiency for 2 years, have no serious criminal record, and sign a declaration of loyalty.
Can I keep my original citizenship when naturalising in Denmark?
Yes, since 2015. Denmark now permits dual citizenship — you do not need to renounce your previous citizenship. Children born to a Danish citizen parent automatically acquire Danish citizenship regardless of where they are born.
How is Danish naturalisation approved?
By an Act of Parliament. After your application is assessed by the Ministry of Immigration and Integration, if approved your name is included in a naturalisation bill (indfødsretslov) passed by parliament — typically twice per year. Criteria change with each parliamentary agreement, so check nyidanmark.dk before applying.
When does it apply — danish citizenship (indfødsret)?
You want to become a Danish citizen through naturalisation.You are checking whether your child qualifies for Danish citizenship by birth.
What should I do if I think I meet the requirements to apply for Danish citizenship by naturalisation?
Check the requirements on nyidanmark.dk — criteria change with each parliamentary agreement on citizenship.Pass the Danish language test (Prøve i Dansk 3) and the citizenship test.Apply through the online portal — your application is assessed by the Ministry of Immigration and Integration.If approved, your name is included in a naturalisation bill (indfødsretslov) passed by parliament — typically twice per year.
What should you NOT do — danish citizenship (indfødsret)?
Don't apply before meeting all requirements — the application fee is non-refundable.Don't commit criminal offences during the process — even minor offences can delay or disqualify your application.Don't assume permanent residence equals citizenship — they are separate statuses with different requirements.