Denmark Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Denmark, as a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area, follows the common Schengen visa policy for international travelers. Entry requirements vary depending on your nationality, purpose of visit, and length of stay. Citizens of EU/EEA countries and many other nations enjoy visa-free access, while others may need to apply for a Schengen visa before traveling. The immigration process in Denmark is generally straightforward and efficient. Upon arrival at Danish airports or border crossings, travelers will go through passport control where officers verify travel documents and may ask questions about the purpose and duration of your visit. Denmark maintains high security standards while facilitating smooth entry for legitimate travelers. Before traveling to Denmark, ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen Area, and was issued within the last 10 years. Prepare supporting documents such as proof of accommodation, return tickets, and sufficient funds for your stay. Denmark does not have routine customs checks for travelers from other Schengen countries, but those arriving from outside the Schengen Area should be prepared for both immigration and customs procedures.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Denmark follows the Schengen visa policy. The visa requirements depend on your nationality and the purpose and duration of your stay. Short-term visits (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) for tourism, business, or family visits fall under the Schengen short-stay visa category.

Visa-Free Entry

Up to 90 days within any 180-day period for non-EU/EEA citizens; unlimited for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens

Citizens of EU/EEA countries, Switzerland, and numerous other nations can enter Denmark without a visa for short stays

Includes

All EU/EEA countries (Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, etc.) United States Canada United Kingdom Australia New Zealand Japan South Korea Singapore Israel Brazil Argentina Chile Mexico Malaysia United Arab Emirates

EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can enter with a valid national ID card or passport. Non-EU visa-exempt travelers must have a passport valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure. The 90/180-day rule applies to the entire Schengen Area, not just Denmark.

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETIAS)

Up to 90 days within any 180-day period

From 2025, visa-exempt non-EU nationals will need ETIAS authorization before traveling to Denmark and other Schengen countries

Includes

United States Canada United Kingdom Australia New Zealand Japan South Korea Singapore and other currently visa-exempt countries

How to Apply: Apply online through the official ETIAS website. Processing is typically within minutes to 96 hours. Authorization valid for 3 years or until passport expiry.
Cost: €7 (free for applicants under 18 or over 70)

ETIAS is expected to launch in 2025. Once implemented, travelers must obtain authorization before departure. This is not a visa but a pre-travel screening system. Check official EU sources for implementation date and requirements.

Visa Required

Typically up to 90 days within any 180-day period for short-stay visas; longer for other visa types

Citizens of countries not on the visa-exemption list must apply for a Schengen visa before traveling to Denmark

How to Apply: Apply at the Danish embassy or consulate in your country of residence, or through an authorized visa application center. Applications should be submitted 15 days to 6 months before intended travel. Processing typically takes 15 calendar days but can take up to 45 days in some cases.

Required for citizens of China, India, Russia, Turkey, South Africa, Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, and many other countries. Visa fees apply (€80 for adults, €40 for children 6-12, free for children under 6). Requirements include travel insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage, proof of accommodation, financial means, and return travel arrangements.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival in Denmark, all travelers must go through immigration control. The process varies slightly depending on whether you're arriving from within or outside the Schengen Area. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens typically use automated gates or dedicated EU lanes, while non-EU travelers use separate immigration channels.

Disembarkation and Signs

Follow signs for 'Arrivals' or 'Passport Control.' Signs will indicate separate lanes for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens and 'All Passports' or non-EU travelers.

Passport Control

Present your passport (and visa if applicable) to the immigration officer. EU/EEA citizens may use automated e-gates at major airports if their passport is biometric. Officers may ask questions about your visit.

Baggage Claim

Collect your checked luggage from the designated carousel. Check display screens for your flight number.

Customs Control

Proceed through customs. If arriving from another Schengen country, there are typically no routine checks. If arriving from outside Schengen, you may choose the green channel (nothing to declare) or red channel (goods to declare).

Exit to Arrivals Hall

Once through customs, you'll enter the public arrivals area where you can access transportation, meet greeters, or exchange currency.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport or National ID

Passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from Schengen Area and issued within the last 10 years. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can use a valid national ID card.

Visa or ETIAS (if required)

Depending on your nationality, you may need a Schengen visa sticker in your passport or ETIAS authorization (once implemented).

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservations, rental agreement, or invitation letter from host. Immigration officers may request this to verify your plans.

Return or Onward Ticket

Proof that you intend to leave Denmark/Schengen Area within the permitted time frame.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Bank statements, cash, credit cards, or traveler's checks to demonstrate you can support yourself during your stay (approximately DKK 500/€67 per day is recommended).

Travel Insurance (if required)

Visa applicants must have travel insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage. Recommended for all travelers.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Have all documents easily accessible, not packed in checked luggage. Keep them in a folder or travel wallet.

Answer questions honestly and concisely. Don't volunteer unnecessary information but be prepared to provide details if asked.

Ensure your passport is in good condition without damage, as damaged passports may cause entry issues.

If using automated e-gates, remove glasses, hats, and ensure your face is clearly visible for biometric scanning.

Keep contact information for your accommodation readily available, including addresses and phone numbers.

Download offline copies of important documents (hotel bookings, insurance, return tickets) in case you don't have internet access.

Be patient and polite with immigration officers. They are performing security checks to ensure everyone's safety.

If you've visited high-risk countries recently, be prepared to explain the purpose of those visits.

Customs & Duty-Free

Denmark's customs regulations align with EU rules. Travelers arriving from other EU countries face minimal restrictions for personal use items, while those arriving from non-EU countries must adhere to duty-free allowances. Denmark has strict rules on certain items, and all travelers should be aware of what they can and cannot bring into the country.

Alcohol (from non-EU countries)

1 liter of spirits (over 22% alcohol) OR 2 liters of fortified/sparkling wine (under 22% alcohol), PLUS 4 liters of still wine, PLUS 16 liters of beer

Must be 18 years or older. Different allowances apply when traveling from other EU countries for personal use.

Tobacco (from non-EU countries)

200 cigarettes OR 100 cigarillos OR 50 cigars OR 250g of tobacco. Can combine different types up to equivalent amounts.

Must be 18 years or older. Higher allowances for personal use when arriving from EU countries.

Currency

€10,000 or equivalent in other currencies

Amounts of €10,000 or more (or equivalent) must be declared when entering or leaving the EU. This includes cash, checks, and other monetary instruments. No limit on how much you can bring, but declaration is mandatory above this threshold.

Gifts/Goods (from non-EU countries)

Goods up to a total value of €430 per person (€300 for travelers under 15 years old; €215 if arriving by private aircraft or boat)

Applies to goods brought from non-EU countries. Goods exceeding this value are subject to customs duties and VAT. Different rules apply for goods purchased in EU countries.

Perfume

50g of perfume and 250ml of eau de toilette

Applies when arriving from non-EU countries.

Medicines

Personal medicines for your own use during the trip

Carry prescription or doctor's letter. Narcotics and psychotropic substances require special permits even with prescription.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - strictly forbidden with severe penalties including imprisonment
Weapons and ammunition - without proper permits and authorization
Counterfeit goods - including fake designer items, pirated media
Endangered species products - items made from protected animals/plants (ivory, certain skins, exotic birds)
Certain plants and plant products - may carry pests or diseases
Meat and dairy products from non-EU countries - with few exceptions (risk of animal diseases)
Fireworks and explosives - without special authorization
Offensive weapons - including knives exceeding legal blade length, knuckle dusters, etc.
Indecent or obscene materials - particularly involving minors

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - allowed in reasonable quantities for personal use; carry prescription or doctor's letter; controlled substances require special permits
Live animals and pets - require EU pet passport, microchip, rabies vaccination, and health certificate (see special situations for details)
Firearms for hunting/sporting - require import permit, registration, and valid license from home country
Large amounts of cash - over €10,000 must be declared but can be carried
Food products from EU countries - generally allowed for personal consumption; restrictions on meat/dairy from non-EU countries
Drones and radio equipment - may require registration or permits depending on specifications
Cultural artifacts and antiques - may require export permits from country of origin

Health Requirements

Denmark maintains high public health standards and has minimal mandatory health requirements for most travelers. However, certain vaccinations may be required depending on your travel history, and health insurance is strongly recommended for all visitors.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Required only if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission or having transited through such a country. Not required for most travelers from Europe, North America, or Asia.

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations - Ensure you're up to date on routine vaccines including MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis), polio, and yearly flu shot
Hepatitis A - Recommended for most travelers
Hepatitis B - Recommended for travelers who may have intimate contact with locals or require medical treatment
Rabies - Only for travelers with extensive outdoor exposure or working with animals
Tick-borne Encephalitis - Consider if visiting rural/forested areas during warmer months

Health Insurance

Health insurance is mandatory for Schengen visa applicants (minimum €30,000 coverage valid throughout Schengen Area). While not legally required for visa-exempt travelers, comprehensive travel health insurance is strongly recommended. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens should carry their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) for access to necessary healthcare. Denmark has reciprocal healthcare agreements with some countries, but these typically cover only emergency care. Private insurance ensures coverage for all medical needs, repatriation, and trip interruptions.

Current Health Requirements: COVID-19 and other health-related entry requirements can change rapidly. As of early 2025, Denmark has lifted most COVID-19 restrictions, but travelers should check the official Danish government websites and their departure country's travel advisories for the latest requirements regarding testing, vaccination certificates, or quarantine. Health screening measures may be temporarily implemented in response to disease outbreaks. Always verify current requirements 1-2 weeks before departure.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Denmark for citizen services and emergencies

Find contact details through your government's foreign affairs website. Major embassies are located in Copenhagen. Register with your embassy for travel alerts if staying long-term.

Danish Immigration Service (Udlændingestyrelsen)

Official authority for visa applications and immigration matters - www.nyidanmark.dk/en-GB

For questions about visa requirements, residence permits, and official immigration policies. Applications are typically submitted through embassies/consulates or visa application centers.

Emergency Services - 112

Single emergency number for police, ambulance, and fire services throughout Denmark

Free to call from any phone. Operators speak English. Use for genuine emergencies only. For non-emergency police matters, call 114.

Danish Customs (SKAT)

For customs-related questions - www.skat.dk

Information about duty-free allowances, prohibited items, and customs procedures.

Copenhagen Airport Information

Main international gateway - www.cph.dk - Phone: +45 32 31 32 31

For flight information, airport services, and arrival procedures.

Non-Emergency Medical Helpline - 1813

Medical advice and guidance for non-emergency health issues in the Capital Region

Available in Copenhagen area. Other regions have similar services. For emergencies, always call 112.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children, including infants, must have their own passport or be included on a parent's passport (if issued before 2012). Minors under 18 traveling alone or with one parent should carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-accompanying parent(s) authorizing the travel, including contact information. This may be requested by immigration officers. For children traveling with adults who are not parents/legal guardians, carry notarized authorization from parents plus copies of the child's birth certificate. Divorced or separated parents should carry custody documents. These requirements help prevent child abduction and are increasingly enforced.

Traveling with Pets

Pets entering Denmark from EU countries must have: an EU pet passport, ISO-compliant microchip (implanted before rabies vaccination), valid rabies vaccination (at least 21 days before entry, not expired), and treatment for tapeworm (dogs only, 1-5 days before entry). Pets from non-EU countries require: ISO-compliant microchip, rabies vaccination, rabies antibody test (at least 30 days after vaccination, 3 months before entry), health certificate issued by official veterinarian (within 10 days of travel), and tapeworm treatment (dogs). Pets must enter through designated points of entry. Certain breeds may be restricted. Birds, rabbits, and other animals have specific requirements. Maximum 5 pets per person for non-commercial travel. Contact the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration for detailed requirements.

Extended Stays (Beyond 90 Days)

EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can stay indefinitely but should register with local authorities if staying over 3 months. Non-EU citizens cannot extend tourist stays beyond 90 days within 180 days. For longer stays, you must apply for a residence permit before the 90-day limit expires. Options include: work permit (requires job offer from Danish employer), student permit (requires admission to Danish educational institution), family reunification (joining family members in Denmark), or other specific permits. Applications must be submitted from your home country before traveling, not while in Denmark on a tourist stay. Processing times vary (1-6 months typically). Long-stay visas (D visas) are different from short-stay Schengen visas. Overstaying can result in deportation and future entry bans.

Business Travelers

Business travelers from visa-exempt countries can enter for meetings, conferences, negotiations, and short-term business activities without a visa (up to 90 days in 180 days). Carry invitation letters from Danish companies, conference registration, or proof of business purpose. You cannot receive salary from Danish sources or engage in actual work on a tourist/business visitor status. For work requiring payment or extended business activities, a work permit is required. Business travelers should also carry business cards and documentation of their company and purpose of visit.

Transit Passengers

Passengers transiting through Denmark (not leaving the international transit area) generally don't need a visa if their onward flight is within 24 hours and they hold valid documents for their destination. However, some nationalities require an Airport Transit Visa even for airside transit. If you need to collect and re-check baggage, change airports, or leave the international area, you may need a regular Schengen visa. Check with your airline and Danish embassy as requirements vary by nationality. Ensure you have confirmed onward tickets and valid entry documents for your final destination.

Students

Students from EU/EEA/Swiss countries can study in Denmark freely. Non-EU students must apply for a student residence permit before traveling if their course exceeds 90 days. Requirements include: admission letter from recognized Danish institution, proof of sufficient funds (approximately DKK 6,166/€830 per month), health insurance, and accommodation confirmation. Applications are submitted online through nyidanmark.dk and typically take 2-3 months to process. Short courses under 90 days may be possible on tourist visa/visa-free entry, but verify with the institution and immigration authorities. Student permits typically allow part-time work (15-20 hours/week).