Visa in Denmark
30 Institutions·300+ ProgramsKey Takeaways
- visa application fee: Approximately 310 EUR
- processing time: Approximately 60 days; apply three months before arrival
- proof of funds: DKK 6,000/month (DKK 72,000/year) — about 1,000 EUR/month
- work hours allowed for non-EU/EEA students: 20 hours/week (Sept–May) and 37 hours/week (June–Aug)
- estimated living expenses: DKK 8,000–10,000/month (approx. 767 EUR/month)
Overview
Denmark requires a residence and work permit (ST1) for most non-EU/EEA students. If you need general visa guidance, see the student visa page for Denmark student visa. Key points:
- Visa type: residence and work permit (ST1).
- Apply about three months before you plan to travel.
- Processing time is approximately 60 days.
- Do not finalize travel arrangements before you have your approved residence permit.
Who Needs a Student Residence Permit
You need the ST1 residence and work permit if you are a non-EU/EEA citizen studying in Denmark. Additional rules:
- EU/EEA citizens can enter without a visa for short stays.
- If you stay more than 90 days as an EU/EEA citizen, you must obtain a residence document.
- For every case, follow the admission conditions set by your institution.
Documents Checklist
Front-load the required documents before you book an appointment. Bring original documents and copies.
- Admission letter from the Danish institution.
- Signed visa/residence permit application form.
- Validated language proficiency proof required by the program.
- Passport valid for the intended stay.
- Recent passport photo meeting Danish specifications.
- Travel insurance policy and proof of premium paid.
- Proof of visa application fee payment (approx. 310 EUR).
- Proof of funds showing DKK 6,000 per month (DKK 72,000 per year).
- Detailed study program information (course start date, duration).
- Proof of accommodation in Denmark.
- Biometric features: you must provide fingerprints and a photograph when applying.
Financial Requirements and Expected Costs
You must prove you can cover living costs while studying. Use these figures when preparing bank statements.
- Proof of funds requirement: DKK 6,000 per month (DKK 72,000 per year). This equals about 1,000 EUR per month.
- Estimated living expenses: DKK 8,000–10,000 per month (approx. 767 EUR/month reported).
- Health insurance cost: DKK 1,500–2,000 per year. Travel insurance is required at application.
- Bring original bank statements or a formal sponsorship letter that meets the DKK 6,000/month threshold.
Note: living expenses figures are higher than the immigration proof of funds. Plan for the higher amount when budgeting.
How to Apply: Step-by-step
Start the process early and follow each step in order.
- Obtain an admission letter from a Danish university or institution.
- Prepare documents listed in the checklist, including proof of funds and travel insurance.
- Schedule an appointment with VFS Global before you submit the online application.
- Complete and sign the online residence permit application form.
- Attend your VFS Global appointment to submit documents and provide biometric data.
- Pay the visa application fee (approximately 310 EUR) and keep the receipt.
- Wait for processing. Expect approximately 60 days; apply three months before arrival.
- Do not book flights or finalize travel until you receive the approved permit.
Working While Studying
You may work part time with the ST1 permit under set limits for non-EU/EEA students. Follow these rules strictly.
- Permitted work hours: 20 hours per week during the academic year (September to May).
- Permitted work hours: 37 hours per week during summer months (June to August).
- Check work contract terms and payroll registration when you start a job.
If you are an EU/EEA citizen, work rules differ and you should confirm the local residence document rules.
After Graduation: Job Seeking Permits
You can apply for a job seeking permit after completing your studies. The permit lengths in sources vary by case.
- Job seeking permit options listed include durations of 3 years or 6 months after education.
- Extension eligibility is possible under certain conditions.
- Confirm specific eligibility and application steps with the Danish immigration authorities before applying.
Timing, Appointments and Contact Points
Plan your timeline and who to contact for questions. Follow institutional instructions for mobility support.
- Best time to apply: March–April for the fall semester intake.
- Apply about three months before your planned arrival to allow a 60-day processing window.
- Obtain an appointment with VFS Global before online submission.
- Do not finalize travel plans until you have your residence permit.
- Contact for student mobility inquiries at the University of Copenhagen: incomingmobility@adm.ku.dk.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Denmark student visa cost?
The visa application fee is approximately 310 EUR. You must also show proof of funds of DKK 6,000 per month and pay any required travel insurance premiums.
How long does the Denmark student visa take to process?
Processing time is approximately 60 days. Apply about three months before your planned arrival to allow time for appointments and processing.
How much money must I show to get a Denmark student visa?
You must show proof of funds of DKK 6,000 per month, equal to DKK 72,000 per year. This is about 1,000 EUR per month.
Can I work while studying in Denmark?
Yes. Non-EU/EEA students can work 20 hours per week from September to May and 37 hours per week from June to August. Confirm contract and payroll registration with your employer.
When should I schedule my VFS Global appointment?
Schedule the VFS Global appointment before you submit your online application. Aim to apply in March–April for the fall intake and at least three months before arrival.
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