Applying for a work visa in Denmark is a relatively quick and easy process compared to those in other countries. However, applicants still need to meet a long list of requirements, and employers need to know all the steps of how to get a work visa in Denmark. Since the country has so many requirements, obtaining a work visa can get delayed.

Types of work visas in Denmark

Citizens from Nordic countries including Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden do not need to get a work or residence permit, as they can simply enter the country. However, they will still have to contact the Citizen Service of the local municipality directly in order to a get a civil registration number (CPR number).

If family members are Nordic citizens, they can come to Denmark just as easily. Family members not from a Nordic country, the EU, or EEA will have to apply for family reunification.

Citizens of the EU, EEA, and Switzerland also don’t need a visa to live, work, or study in Denmark. However, they still need to meet the Danish Immigration Service and the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration’s immigration rules. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens staying more than three months must apply for an EU registration certificate within three months of entering Denmark. Qualifying jobseekers generally have six months.

All other citizens must apply for a visa, which allows them to stay for up to 90 days in any 180-day period across the Schengen Area. This includes time spent in other Schengen countries. Greenland and the Faroe Islands require separate visas. Any person wishing to stay and work longer will need a residence and work permit to do so.

Although there are many different work visas, the three most common include the Fast-Track Scheme, the Pay Limit Scheme, and the Positive List. These options are the broadest and also include corresponding visa types such as research, pay limit, and more.

Requirements to obtain Denmark work visas

Non-EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals will need to meet certain requirements and provide documents for the application process.

Some of the documents required include the following:

  • Proof of paid visa fee
  • Copy of all passport pages, including empty pages as well as front and back cover
  • Power of attorney from the applicant
  • Employment contract or job offer with information on salary, job description, and terms of employment
  • Documentation of educational background (if applicable)

For the Supplementary Pay Limit Scheme, a declaration that the job position was posted on Jobnet and EURES for at least two weeks (no more than six months before applying) is also required. And depending on the type of work permit applied for, a minimum salary, as stipulated by the local authorities, may apply.

Application process

Employees will likely apply for a Denmark work visa online. They can start by creating a case order ID and selecting the visa that best fits their work situation. Some types of visas need to be submitted entirely by the employer through power of attorney. After someone creates a case order ID, they’re required to pay the visa fee in the same year.

Next, submit the required documents above, as well as the work visa application form. There are 2 common forms — the AR1 online and the AR6 online. The AR1 is an electronic form completed by both the employee and the employer. The AR6 is filled out exclusively by the employer, who has the power of attorney.

Within 14 days after applying online, the applicant must have their fingerprints and photograph recorded. If the application is submitted in person at an international diplomatic mission with which Denmark has a representation agreement, the individual must submit one facial photo and show a valid ID, and if later granted a residence permit, have their biometric features recorded after entering Denmark.

The employee will get the results of their application within about one month. Under the Fast-Track Scheme, final permit processing also takes about one month, but eligible employees of SIRI-certified employers can usually start working within approximately 10 days while the application is processed. Processing sometimes takes longer if documents or biometrics are missing or further verification is required.

Other important considerations

Some employees may want their family, spouse, or partner to join them in Denmark. They can apply for family reunification through family and spouse visas. Under Denmark’s national family reunification rules, allow up to seven months for processing. However, be aware that this is an administrative service target, not a statutory deadline. A government processing fee may apply and this can be found on the government website.

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For this particular location, G-P may offer support processing certain work visas and permits.