Buying property in Denmark for the first time can be complex – especially for foreigners who are unfamiliar with the Danish mortgage system and how home loans in Denmark work. In Denmark, most property purchases are financed with a mortgage loan Denmark (realkreditlån), and often supplemented by a traditional bank loan / Denmark house loan if needed. If you have recently moved to Denmark and are new to the country, then this guide breaks down everything you need to know about getting a mortgage in Denmark, how eligibility is assessed, common loan options, and the best ways to compare offers so you can make an informed decision and find the best mortgage loan in Denmark.
Key Points – Mortgage Loan in Denmark for Foreigners
- Foreigners can get a mortgage in Denmark with stable income and a CPR number
- Mortgages usually cover up to 80% of the property value
- The rest is paid via savings and/or a house loan from a bank
- Comparing offers helps you find the best mortgage loan for your situation
- Comparison platforms simplify the process for foreigners
✔ Updated for 2025 ✔ Written for foreigners living in Denmark
💡 Quick overview
Below you can compare mortgage loan options in Denmark and see which platforms are most suitable for foreigners.
Compare Mortgage Loan Options in Denmark (2025)
✔ Free & no obligation
✔ English support available
✔ Secure & GDPR-compliant platforms
These platforms help foreigners compare mortgage options in Denmark:
Best for a broad bank overview
Findbank.dk lets you compare mortgage loans and house loan options from multiple Danish lenders in one place.
It’s a good starting point if you want a fast overview of what’s available before going deeper.
Free overview · No obligation · English support
Best for in-depth comparison
BankBasen.dk is ideal if you want a more in-depth comparison of Danish mortgage loans.
It’s especially useful for foreigners who want to understand differences in rates, terms, and lender requirements.
Detailed comparison · No obligation · English support
Best for finding banks likely to accept you
MatchBanker.dk matches your financial profile with lenders that are more likely to approve your application.
This can be helpful if you want tailored mortgage suggestions instead of contacting banks one by one.
Guided matching · Saves time · Expat-friendly
Can Foreigners Get a Mortgage in Denmark?
Yes — foreigners can get a mortgage in Denmark, but requirements are stricter than for personal loans or credit cards.
Lenders typically look at:
- A valid CPR number and Danish address
- Stable employment and income
- Length of residence in Denmark
- Savings for a down payment
Getting pre-approval before house hunting often makes the process much smoother.
Danish Mortgage System Explained
In Denmark, most property purchases are financed with a mortgage loan (often called a realkreditlån). These loans usually cover up to 80% of the property’s value and typically have lower interest rates than regular bank loans.
The remaining part of the purchase price is covered by:
- Personal savings
- A house loan / home loan from a bank, if needed
Understanding this structure is essential when getting a mortgage in Denmark as a foreigner.
Home Loan Denmark – Bank Loan vs Mortgage
A home loan in Denmark can refer to two different things:
- A mortgage loan that finances the main part of the property
- A bank loan used to supplement the mortgage if savings are insufficient
Mortgage loans are usually cheaper, while bank loans are more flexible but more expensive. Many buyers use a combination of both.
Foreigners are often required to provide a larger down payment than Danish citizens.
Eligibility – What Lenders Look For
Lenders assess your overall financial profile, including:
- Residence status and CPR number
- Employment contract and income stability
- Size of your down payment
- Existing debt and monthly expenses
- Property type and intended use
🔎 Important for Non-EU/EEA Buyers
Some non-EU/EEA citizens may need special permission to purchase property in Denmark, depending on their situation.
Types of Mortgage Loans in Denmark
Denmark offers several mortgage structures with different risk profiles.
Fixed-Rate Mortgage
A fixed interest rate for the entire loan term, offering predictable monthly payments.
Variable-Rate Mortgage
Interest rates adjust periodically and may start lower, but can change over time.
Interest-Only Mortgage
Allows interest-only payments for a period before principal repayment begins.
Adjustable or Capped Mortgage
Combines flexibility with limits on how much rates can increase.
Why Comparing Mortgage Loans Matters
Comparing mortgage loans is especially important for foreigners because:
- Lender requirements vary
- Interest rates and fees differ
- Some lenders are more expat-friendly than others
Using comparison platforms helps you find the best mortgage loan in Denmark without applying to multiple banks individually.
📈 Pro tip
Getting mortgage pre-approval before viewing properties helps define your budget and strengthens your negotiating position.
How to Apply for a Mortgage Loan in Denmark
Most mortgage applications require:
- Valid identification
- CPR number and Danish address
- Proof of income and employment
- Bank statements
- Documentation of savings
- Property details (if already selected)
The process usually takes several weeks, depending on complexity.
Takes minutes · No impact on credit score
If you are looking for a more detailed guide on how to choose the right bank in Denmark or how to find the best bank providing loans for foreigners, you may want to check out my two other guides, where I cover these topics in detail:
Which Mortgage Loan in Denmark Is Right for You?
| Your Situation | Best Path |
|---|---|
| First-time buyer | Start with comparison platforms |
| Want tailored suggestions | Use MatchBanker.dk |
| Need full market overview | Try BankBasen.dk or Findbank.dk |
| Long-term residence | Explore fixed-rate mortgages |
Final Verdict – Best Mortgage Loan in Denmark for Foreigners
For foreigners planning to buy property in Denmark:
- Mortgage loans form the foundation of home financing
- House loans can supplement if needed
- Comparing offers gives the best overview and improves approval chances
Documents You Will Need To Apply For a Mortgage Loan in Denmark
When applying for a mortgage in Denmark as a foreigner, you’ll need to present a comprehensive set of documents. Danish banks and mortgage lenders are regulated under strict national and EU-level financial laws, and documentation helps assess your creditworthiness and legal status.
Most lenders will typically require the following:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Valid passport or national ID | This confirms your identity. |
| Residence permit or proof of residency | Confirms your legal status in Denmark, which is especially important for non-EU citizens. |
| CPR number (Danish personal ID) | Needed for identification and financial registration in Denmark. |
| Employment contract or proof of income | Demonstrates your financial stability and ability to repay the loan. |
| Payslips (usually last 3 months) | Verifies your current income. |
| Tax returns or annual income statements | Offers a longer-term view of your financial situation (especially for those who are self-employed). |
| Bank statements (typically last 3 months) | Shows your cash flow, savings, and existing liabilities. |
| Proof of down payment funds | Confirms that you can cover the required upfront costs (usually at least 5%). |
| Details of the property | Includes the purchase agreement or valuation report, especially if already selected. |
See the Best Mortgage Loan Options in Denmark – Updated for 2025
Once you’re ready to explore your mortgage options in Denmark, it’s important to compare offers from different lenders to ensure you get the best terms available. This is especially important as a foreigner, where requirements and rates can vary depending on your residence status, income, and credit history.
Trusted by expats · Free & no obligation
Findbank.dk lets you compare mortgage loans and house loan options from multiple Danish lenders in one place. It gives a fast overview, and is for free.
Bankbasen is a free and fast comparison tool that gives you an overview of online loan options in Denmark. It helps you quickly compare everything from small personal loans to larger loans for cars or housing.
Alternatively, you can also use the comparison service by Matchbanker. Both platforms allow you to see offers from multiple banks and mortgage providers in one place. By filling in a few basic details, you’ll receive tailored suggestions that match your profile, which saves you both time and money in the long run.
Matchbanker simplifies the Danish loan market by offering you a personalized overview of the best loan options based on your profile and needs. Just fill out a short form and receive tailored loan offers in minutes.
All three are ideal options and can help you choose the option that best fits your needs and budget.
FAQ About Best Mortgage Loan in Denmark for Foreigners
Can Foreigners Get a Mortgage Loan in Denmark?
Yes, foreigners can apply for mortgage loans in Denmark. EU/EEA citizens generally find it easier, especially if they have a permanent address and stable income in Denmark. Non-EU citizens may face stricter conditions, but it is still possible, particularly with a residence and work permit.
What Types of Mortgage Loans are Available to Foreigners in Denmark?
The main types of mortgage loans in Denmark include interest-only mortgages, fixed-rate mortgages, and variable-rate mortgages.
How Much Can I Borrow as a Foreigner?
Typically, you can borrow up to 80% of a property’s value through a mortgage loan. The remaining 20% must come from your own savings or through a bank loan. Your income, employment status, and creditworthiness will also affect the loan amount.
Do I Need Permanent Residency to Qualify For a Mortgage?
Permanent residency is not always required, but having long-term residence and a stable job in Denmark improves your chances significantly. Some banks may require at least a few years of financial history in Denmark.
What Documents do I Need to Apply for a Mortgage?
You will typically need: Passport or national ID, CPR number, employment contract or income documentation, tax records (e.g., SKAT annual statement), proof of savings or assets, and residency permit (for non-EU citizens).
How Long Does it Take to Get a Mortgage in Denmark?
From initial application to approval, it usually takes 2–4 weeks, depending on the lender, your documentation, and the complexity of your case.
Can I Get a Mortgage Without a Danish Credit History?
It is possible, but more challenging. Some banks may accept international credit history or focus on your income and employment status in Denmark. You may also be asked for a larger down payment.
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