Best Accountants in Denmark for Foreigners

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Steven Højlund

Editor in Chief, Ph.D.
Best Accountants in Denmark for Foreigners

Navigating the local financial and tax system can be confusing in Denmark, especially if Danish isn’t your first language. From registering with SKAT to understanding deductions or VAT rules, there’s generally a lot to keep track of. That’s where reliable accountants in Denmark come to the rescue, as they aren’t just practical to have. They can also save you time, stress, and costly mistakes.

This guide is designed to help you understand when and why you might need to reach out to accountants in Denmark, what to expect, and how to find one who suits your needs as a foreigner living in Denmark.

If you are looking for a more detailed guide on tax & financial advisors or a reliable lawyer in Denmark, you may want to check out my other guides, where I cover these topics in detail:

Do Foreigners Need to Work With Accountants in Denmark?

Not everyone needs to work with accountants in Denmark, but many foreigners find it’s worth the investment, especially in these situations:

  • You’ve recently moved to Denmark and want help to navigate the tax system.
  • You’re self-employed, a freelancer, or a sole trader and need to report income or register for VAT (moms).
  • You’ve started a business and want help managing bookkeeping, payroll, or annual reports.
  • You have multiple sources of income (e.g., from abroad, property, or investments).
  • You want to avoid fines or tax penalties due to misunderstandings or incorrect filings.

The Danish tax authority (SKAT) offers online tools, but they can be complex to use and generally navigate through, especially if your situation isn’t completely straightforward. Even salaried workers sometimes use an accountant in Denmark to make sure they’re claiming all eligible deductions.

If you prefer peace of mind and want clear, English-speaking support, working with an accountant in Denmark familiar with expat needs can be a smart move.

What to Expect From Accountants in Denmark?

Accountants in Denmark offer a wide range of services depending on your needs, whether you’re an individual, freelancer, or company owner. But typically, you can expect the following from accountants in Denmark:

  • Tax returns and annual filings: Accountants in Denmark will help with submitting your personal or business tax declarations to SKAT.
  • Advice on deductions: They will offer guidance on what you can legally deduct, from work-from-home expenses to pension contributions and transport.
  • Business setup assistance: Help registering a company, choosing the right business structure (e.g., enkeltmandsvirksomhed vs. ApS), and getting VAT registered.
  • Bookkeeping and payroll: Monthly or quarterly accounting support, invoicing, staff salaries, and general compliance with Danish accounting standards.
  • Multilingual support: Many accountants in Denmark who work with foreigners offer services in English, and some even in other languages like German, Spanish, or Polish.
  • Experience with international clients: Some accountants in Denmark specialise in helping expats, cross-border workers, and international freelancers, making the process more tailored and accessible.

You can expect that fees would vary depending on the complexity of your situation. Some accountants in Denmark offer fixed-price packages (for example, for freelancers), while others bill hourly. In general, you can expect to pay from DKK 300–800 per hour, or DKK 3,000–10,000 per year for ongoing services.

How to Find a Good Accountant in Denmark as a Foreigner

Finding an accountant in Denmark is not the easiest task, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the language, tax rules, or business norms. But fortunately, there are some clear steps you can take to find someone reliable and well-suited to your needs:

  • Look for experience with expats: Accountants who regularly work with foreigners are more familiar with the challenges newcomers face, like international income, student deductions, or dual taxation.
  • Ask about language support: While many Danish accountants speak English, not all offer full services in it. Confirm that documentation, reports, and communication will be in a language you’re comfortable with.
  • Read reviews or get referrals: Expat Facebook groups, international forums, and even local co-working spaces are great places to seek out personal recommendations.
  • Check pricing structure: Some offer flat-rate packages, which are ideal if you want predictable costs. Others charge by the hour, which may suit one-off requests.
  • Request a discovery call: Most accountants are happy to offer an introductory consultation. Use this time to ask about their process, typical turnaround times, and how they handle communication.
  • Consider digital vs. traditional services: Some accountants operate entirely online with modern dashboards, while others still work face-to-face or over email. Choose what works best for you.
Best Accountants in Denmark

If you’re a freelancer, student, or new business owner, finding an accountant early can save you from making common mistakes, and even help you save money on taxes in the long run.

How Foreigners Use Accounting Services in Denmark

While official data on expat use of accounting services in Denmark is limited, several studies and trends help paint a picture of how and why foreigners seek financial help:

  • Rising expat population: According to Danmarks Statistik, over 650,000 foreign nationals now live in Denmark, with major concentrations in cities like Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Odense. Many come from countries with different tax systems, which makes Danish rules feel complex or unfamiliar.
  • Growing demand for tax assistance: A 2023 survey by Expat Insider found that 41% of expats in Denmark find the local bureaucracy and tax system challenging. It even ranks among the most difficult aspects of settling in the country. Many turn to professional accountants to avoid costly mistakes or missed deductions.
  • Freelancing & self-employment on the rise: Denmark is seeing a steady increase in foreign freelancers, digital nomads, and remote workers. This trend creates more demand for accountants who can offer guidance on VAT registration, business structure, and invoicing in both local and international contexts.
  • Digital services in high demand: Digital-first accounting firms are increasingly popular, particularly among younger foreigners. Many expats prefer fully online services with English-language dashboards, easy document uploads, and predictable pricing models.
  • Common challenges often reported by expats:
    • Misunderstanding of Danish tax deductions (e.g., transport, relocation, or dual housing).
    • Late filing penalties due to missed deadlines or incorrect income reporting.
    • Confusion around dual taxation treaties, especially for citizens from countries like Germany, the U.S., or India.

The findings above highlight the value of choosing an accountant early, especially if you’re earning freelance income, starting a business, or navigating dual tax obligations. For many, professional help not only saves time and stress but also ensures full legal compliance with SKAT.

Best Accountants in Denmark for Foreigners

While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but according to my observations, there are three types of accountant services that tend to work well for foreigners in Denmark. I have listed them below here:

Type of ServiceBest ForDescriptionLanguage Support
Freelancer-focused accountantsFreelancers, consultants, creativesOffers affordable monthly packages, VAT help, and income tax reporting. Often digital and responsive.English, sometimes other languages
Small business specialistsSole proprietors, small ApS ownersHelps with company registration, bookkeeping, payroll, and annual accounts. Can also advise on cross-border tax.English, Danish, possibly more
International expat-friendly firmsHigh-income earners, investors, dual tax residentsOffers expert help with international tax questions, investments, and income from abroad. Often used by executives or professionals.English and often multilingual

FAQ About the Best Accountants in Denmark for Foreigners

Do I Need an Accountant in Denmark as a Foreigner?

Not necessarily, but it can be extremely helpful. If you have income from multiple sources, are self-employed, own property, or are new to the Danish tax system, an accountant can save you time, stress, and money by helping you stay compliant with SKAT regulations.

Can I Find an English-Speaking Accountant in Denmark?

Yes. Many accounting firms in major cities like Copenhagen and Aarhus offer services in English, and some specialise in working with expats. Some online platforms also provide fully digital services with English-language support.

What Services do Accountants Typically Provide in Denmark?

Accountants can help with: guidance on tax deductions and dual taxation, annual tax return preparation, VAT registration and filing, payroll (if you employ others), and business registration and advice.

Is it Better to Use a Traditional Firm or an Online Service?

It depends on your preferences. Traditional firms may offer in-person meetings and local expertise, while digital services often provide faster support, flat-rate pricing, and easy-to-use interfaces. Many foreigners opt for digital accountants with expat-friendly experience.

What is the Deadline for Tax Filing in Denmark?

For most individuals, the annual tax return must be submitted by July 1. If you’re self-employed or have complex tax affairs, it’s advisable to contact an accountant early in the year to avoid late penalties.

Can Accountants Help With Dual Taxation or International income?

Yes. Many accountants are familiar with double taxation treaties and international tax laws. If you earn income abroad, it’s highly recommended to find an accountant with experience handling cross-border finances.

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