Opening a bank account is one of the most important – and sometimes frustrating – steps when settling in Denmark as a foreigner. While Denmark has a modern and highly regulated banking system, many newcomers are surprised by how strict a bank in Denmark can be when onboarding new customers.
Some Dnish banks are more used to working with internationals, while others focus mainly on long-term residents with stable Danish income. This is why searching for the best bank in Denmark for foreigners isn’t really about finding a single “winner”, but about understanding how the Danish banking system works and which banks are most likely to accept you.
This guide explains how banks in Denmark operate, what foreigners should expect when opening an account, and how to compare the largest Danish banks to find the right fit
Key Points – Choosing a Bank in Denmark as a Foreigner
- Foreigners can open a bank account in Denmark with a CPR number
- Danish banks differ widely in service, fees, and expat-friendliness
- There is no single “best bank” – the right choice depends on your situation
- Comparing banks saves time and avoids unnecessary rejections
✔ Updated for 2026 ✔ Written for foreigners living in Denmark
💡 Quick orientation
If you’re short on time, you can compare Danish banks and account options below. A deeper explanation follows further down the page.
Compare Banks in Denmark (For Foreigners – 2026)
Best for a broad bank overview
Findbank.dk gives you a broad overview of banks in Denmark and the types of accounts they offer. It’s useful if you want to understand your options before contacting a bank directly.
For foreigners, this can save time by clarifying what different Danish banks typically require and which ones may suit your situation.
Free overview · No obligation · English support
Best for finding banks likely to accept you
MatchBanker.dk focuses on matching you with banks based on your profile. Instead of contacting multiple banks individually, you provide your details once and receive suggestions that better fit your situation.
This is especially helpful if you’re new to Denmark or have already experienced a rejection.
Guided matching · Saves time · Expat-friendly
How the Danish Banking System Works
Denmark has a relatively small but highly regulated banking sector. Most people use one main bank for salary payments, bills, and everyday banking. Switching banks is possible, but banks are selective about new customers.
The largest Danish banks dominate the market, but smaller and digital-focused banks also exist. For foreigners, acceptance often depends less on the bank’s size and more on your documentation and residency status.
Largest and Most Well-Known Banks in Denmark
When people talk about the biggest banks in Denmark, they usually refer to institutions like Danske Bank, Jyske Bank and Nordea. These banks serve millions of customers and offer a wide range of services.
However, being large doesn’t automatically mean being the best bank in Denmark for foreigners. Larger banks can be more conservative in onboarding, while others may be more flexible depending on your situation.
Opening a Bank Account in Denmark
Opening a bank account is one of the first practical steps many foreigners and newcomers will have to take after arriving in Denmark. To open a bank account here, you must first find the best bank in Denmark that suits your needs. A bank account is often required for receiving a salary, paying rent, setting up utilities, and using services like MobilePay or NemKonto (the national account for public payments).
However, finding the right bank is not always as easy as it may sound, and navigating the banks in Denmark can be confusing to many. Danish banks vary widely in terms of cost, accessibility, and user experience. Many foreigners report difficulties due to a lack of English-language support, complex documentation requirements, or unclear account fees. Especially getting a loan can be very hard for foreigners – so hard that we dedicated a whole separate article on how to get a loan in a Danish bank.
To open a bank account in Denmark, you usually need:
- A CPR number
- A Danish address
- Valid ID (passport or EU ID)
- Proof of employment or income (in many cases)
Some banks may also ask additional questions about how you intend to use the account. This is normal and part of Danish compliance rules.
What Makes a Danish Bank “Good” for Foreigners?
From an expat perspective, a good Danish bank is not just about low fees. It’s about accessibility and practicality.
Foreigners often value:
- English communication
- Clear onboarding requirements
- Digital banking features
- Reasonable fees for everyday use
This is why comparing banks — instead of choosing one at random — is so important.
📌 Note on loans and mortgages
Danish banks also offer loans and mortgages, but approval depends on separate criteria. If you’re looking specifically for loans or home financing, it’s better to compare those products separately.
List of Banks in Denmark – Why Comparison Matters
There is a long list of Danish banks, but not all of them actively target foreigners. Some banks prefer customers with long-term residence and stable Danish income, while others are more open to newcomers.
Using a comparison or matching platform helps narrow down the list and focus on banks where you’re more likely to succeed.
Comparison of Best Banks in Denmark for Foreigners (2025)
We’ve reviewed the most popular banks and financial services for foreigners living in Denmark, based on ease of use, fees, language support, and accessibility. Below is a quick comparison I’ve made to help you find the best option for your needs.
| Bank / Service | Type | Requires CPR? | English Support | Monthly Fees | Online Account Opening | Strengths | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Danske Bank | Traditional | Yes | Yes | DKK 40–70 | No (in-branch only) | Widely accepted; strong mobile app; NemKonto supported | Setup can be slow; fees |
| Nordea | Traditional | Yes | Yes | DKK 20–60 | No | Large bank; solid expat support | CPR required; complex documentation |
| Sydbank | Traditional | Yes | Partial | DKK 40–70 | No | Smaller branches = faster service | Limited English materials |
| Lunar | Digital (DK) | Yes | Yes | Free (basic) | Yes (fully online) | Fast signup; Danish IBAN; expat-friendly | Needs CPR; no physical branches |
| Revolut | Digital (EU/UK) | No* | Yes | Free (basic) | Yes | No CPR needed; great for travel | No Danish IBAN; limited employer acceptance |
| Wise | Digital (UK) | No* | Yes | Free (basic) | Yes | Excellent for transfers; holds many currencies | Not usable for NemKonto or CPR services |
| N26 | Digital (DE) | No* | Yes | Free (basic) | Yes | User-friendly; good for students | No Danish IBAN; not ideal for long-term |
*Note that digital banks like Revolut, Wise, and N26 do not issue Danish IBANs, which may be required by employers, landlords, and government institutions. However, they can be useful during your first weeks or months before you’re fully registered in Denmark.
If you’re looking to compare banks and find the best bank in Denmark and most affordable option, we highly recommend using Findbank.dk to find the best bank in Denmark for you. It’s designed to help people in Denmark easily navigate the banking market. It’s a simple and effective way to find the right bank for your needs.
Recommended Best Bank in Denmark for Businesses
The major traditional banks are generally the primary choice for business banking due to their comprehensive services, advisory capabilities, and experience with corporate clients of all sizes.
- Danske Bank: Offers robust solutions for small, medium, and large enterprises, including international business banking, corporate finance, and treasury services. They have extensive experience with foreign-owned companies setting up in Denmark.
- Nordea: A strong contender for businesses, particularly those with Nordic regional operations. Nordea provides a full range of business accounts, financing options, cash management, and trade finance solutions.
- Jyske Bank / Sydbank: These banks also offer comprehensive business banking services, often with a focus on personalized advisory and tailored solutions for SMEs (Small and Medium-sized Enterprises). They can be excellent choices if you appreciate a closer relationship with your business advisor.
- Lunar Business: For very small businesses, startups, or freelancers who prefer a purely digital banking experience, Lunar also offers business accounts. While not suitable for complex corporate structures or large-scale financing needs, it can be a quick and cost-effective solution for basic business banking.
Final Verdict – Best Bank in Denmark for Foreigners
There is no single best bank for every foreigner in Denmark. The right choice depends on:
- How long you plan to stay
- Your employment situation
- How you’ll use your bank account
If you want an overview, start with Findbank.dk.
If you want guidance and a higher chance of acceptance, MatchBanker.dk is often the better choice.
FAQ About Best Bank in Denmark for Foreigners
Can a Foreigner Open a Bank Account in Denmark?
Yes, foreigners can open a bank account in Denmark, but most banks require you to have a CPR number (Danish personal ID), proof of address, and valid identification. Some banks are more flexible than others when it comes to international newcomers.
What Documents do I Need to Open a Bank Account in Denmark?
Typically, you’ll need the following:
- Valid passport or national ID
- CPR number
- Danish address
- Proof of employment or study (depending on the bank)
- MitID (digital ID), or the ability to register for one
Which Danish Banks Are Best for Foreigners?
Some banks are known for being more expat-friendly, offering English-speaking customer service, English-language online banking, and lower barriers for account setup. Danske Bank, Lunar, and Nordea are often mentioned as good options, depending on your needs.
Can I Open a Danish Bank Account Without a CPR Number?
In most cases, no. The CPR number is essential for identity verification and accessing digital services like MitID and NemKonto. However, some digital banks or EU-wide fintech platforms may offer temporary alternatives until you get your CPR.
How Long Does it Take to Open a Bank Account in Denmark?
Once you have your documentation in order, it usually takes a few days to one week. However, during peak seasons or if your paperwork is incomplete, it can take longer.
Do Danish Banks Offer English-language Support?
Most large banks in Denmark offer some level of English support, especially in urban areas. However, mobile apps and online platforms may not always be fully translated, so it’s worth checking in advance.
Can I Open a Bank Account Online As a Foreigner in Denmark?
Some banks allow online account setup, but you’ll still need to verify your identity in person or via a secure digital ID like MitID. Digital banks like Lunar are typically more streamlined for online onboarding.
Do I Need a Danish Phone Number to Open a Bank Account?
Many banks require a Danish phone number for account setup and security purposes, especially when linking services like MobilePay. It’s advisable to get a local SIM card early on.
What Is a NemKonto, and Do I Need One?
A NemKonto is a mandatory bank account registered with the Danish authorities to receive public payments (e.g., tax refunds, benefits). Your regular account is usually designated as your NemKonto automatically.
Are There Fees for Having a Bank Account in Denmark?
Yes, most banks charge monthly fees for account maintenance and card usage. Fee structures vary depending on the bank and account type. It’s important to review pricing before choosing your bank.
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