Denmark is known for its high quality of life, stable economy, and well-maintained cities — all of which make it an attractive place to invest in property. But if you’re a foreigner, buying property in Denmark is not as straightforward as browsing listings and signing a contract.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about buying property in Denmark as a foreigner — from the legal requirements and financing options to the buying process, taxes, and common pitfalls to avoid. Whether you’re looking for a city apartment, a family home, or a holiday house by the coast, understanding the rules will help you plan your purchase and avoid costly surprises.
Here are the key points in this article:
- Eligibility for Foreign Buyers: Foreigners can buy property in Denmark, but the process varies depending on citizenship and residency status, with restrictions for non-EU/EEA citizens and holiday homes.
- Legal Requirements and Approval Process: Non-EU/EEA citizens and some EU citizens must obtain approval from the Danish Ministry of Justice before purchasing property, which involves an application process and can delay transactions.
- Types of Properties Available: Denmark offers various property types such as owner-occupied housing, cooperative housing, holiday homes, new-builds, and commercial properties, each with different ownership rules.
- Market Trends and Pricing: Property prices in Denmark are rising, with Copenhagen’s average reaching around DKK 55,000 per m², especially in prime locations, while rural areas are more affordable.
- Common Challenges for Foreign Buyers: Foreign buyers face obstacles like legal restrictions, language barriers, understanding ownership costs, and negotiating cultural differences, which can be mitigated by professional guidance.
If you’re looking for specific advice on things like the best real estate agents in Denmark or property and real estate lawyers in Denmark working with foreigners, we also have separate guides that dive into those topics in more detail.
First Things First: Is Buying Property in Denmark Possible for Foreigners?
The short answer is yes — but with restrictions. Denmark has specific rules to ensure that property remains available for residents and is not purchased solely for speculation or holiday use. The requirements depend largely on your citizenship and residency status.
EU/EEA Citizens
If you are an EU or EEA citizen and plan to use the property as your primary residence, you can generally buy without special permission. However, if you do not intend to live in Denmark full-time, you will need to apply for approval from the Ministry of Justice.
Non-EU/EEA Citizens
If you are from outside the EU/EEA, you must obtain Ministry of Justice approval before buying property in Denmark — unless you have lived in Denmark for at least five consecutive years and have a permanent residence permit.
Holiday Homes (Sommerhuse)
Denmark has strict rules about buying holiday homes. As a general rule, only Danish residents can purchase a summerhouse. Foreigners can do so only if they have lived in Denmark for a number of years and the Ministry of Justice grants permission.
Understanding the Danish Property Market
Before making a purchase, it’s useful to understand the different types of property available and how the market works.
| Type of Property | Danish Term | Description | Who Can Buy | Key Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Owner-occupied housing | Ejerbolig | You own the property outright. | EU/EEA citizens living in Denmark full-time; others with Ministry of Justice approval. | Most straightforward type of ownership. |
| Cooperative housing | Andelsbolig | You buy a share in a housing association, giving you the right to live in the property. | Same rules as above; sometimes extra conditions from the association. | Prices often lower than market value, but strict resale rules apply. |
| Holiday home | Sommerhus | Seasonal or vacation property, often near the coast. | Generally only Danish residents; foreigners need special approval. | Can have usage restrictions (e.g., not for permanent living). |
| New-build property | Nybyggeri | Brand-new homes or apartments, often energy-efficient. | Same rules as owner-occupied. | Usually more expensive but lower maintenance costs. |
| Commercial property | Erhvervsejendom | Property intended for business use. | Fewer restrictions, but usage must comply with zoning. | May be easier for foreign investors. |
According to Statistics Denmark, property prices in Copenhagen have risen by about 4% annually over the past three years, with the highest demand for centrally located apartments. In contrast, rural areas have seen slower growth or stable prices, making them more affordable for buyers looking for space.
Legal Requirements for Foreign Buyers
Denmark’s property laws are designed to ensure that housing remains accessible for residents and to regulate foreign ownership. The rules vary depending on your nationality, residency status, and intended use of the property.
When Ministry of Justice approval is required:
- You are a non-EU/EEA citizen and have not lived in Denmark for at least five consecutive years.
- You are an EU/EEA citizen but do not plan to use the property as your primary residence.
- You wish to buy a holiday home (sommerhus) and are not a long-term resident.
The Ministry of Justice application process:
- Submit an application explaining your reason for purchase, intended use, and personal circumstances.
- Provide supporting documentation (passport, proof of residence or employment, financial details).
- Processing can take several weeks to months, so it’s best to apply early in the buying process.
Exceptions to approval requirements:
- EU/EEA citizens buying a primary residence and moving to Denmark full-time.
- Non-EU/EEA citizens who have lived in Denmark for five years or more with a valid residence permit.
- Some commercial property purchases, depending on the intended use and zoning.
Important note: If you buy property without meeting these requirements, the sale can be declared invalid, and you may be required to sell.
Buying Property in Denmark – Step by Step
Buying property in Denmark involves several steps, each with its own legal and financial considerations. Here’s how the process typically works:
Finding a Property
Search via real estate agencies (ejendomsmæglere), online portals, or relocation consultants. Viewings are usually arranged through the selling agent.
Making an Offer
Offers are submitted in writing through the estate agent. Once accepted, a conditional sale agreement (købsaftale) is prepared.
Conditional Sale Agreement (Købsaftale)
This outlines the purchase price, deposit, and conditions (such as mortgage approval or Ministry of Justice permission).
Lawyer’s Review (Advokatforbehold)
It’s standard to include a lawyer’s clause, allowing your lawyer to review the contract and cancel the deal within a set period (often 3–5 business days) without penalty.
Securing Approvals & Financing
If required, apply for Ministry of Justice permission. Arrange your mortgage or financing with a Danish bank or lender.
Signing the Final Contract
Once conditions are met, both parties sign the final contract. A deposit (usually 5–10% of the purchase price) is paid into a secure escrow account.
Registration (Tinglysning)
The sale is registered in the Danish Land Registry (Tingbogen). This process also triggers the payment of the registration fee (tinglysningsafgift).
Handover of Property
On the agreed handover date, you receive the keys, and the remaining purchase price is paid. Utilities and property insurance are transferred to your name.
Common Challenges for Foreign Buyers
Buying property in Denmark can feel straightforward once you know the process, but many foreigners run into obstacles they didn’t anticipate. Being aware of these early can save time, money, and frustration.
Legal Restrictions and Delays
If you need Ministry of Justice approval, the process of buying property in Denmark can delay your purchase by weeks or even months. Some buyers have lost properties to faster-moving buyers who already had approval in place.
Limited Availability of Certain Property Types
Holiday homes (sommerhuse) are highly regulated, and in some areas, virtually impossible to buy as a foreigner without permanent residence. Likewise, desirable city apartments in Copenhagen and Aarhus can sell within days.
Language Barriers in Contracts
While many Danes speak English fluently, official property documents, including the købsaftale and land registry entries, are in Danish. Relying on informal translations can lead to misunderstandings — hiring a bilingual lawyer is strongly recommended.
Understanding Ownership Costs
Foreign buyers sometimes underestimate annual costs such as property taxes (ejendomsskat and dækningsafgift), utilities, and homeowners’ association fees (fællesudgifter). These can add up significantly, especially for apartments.
Cultural Differences in Negotiation
Danish sellers generally expect offers close to the asking price. Aggressive bargaining — common in some markets — can be viewed negatively and even cost you the deal.
Financing Hurdles for Non-Residents
Not all banks are willing to provide mortgages to non-residents or newcomers without Danish credit history. When they do, loan-to-value ratios may be lower, meaning a higher down payment is required.
Property Condition and Inspection
Many older Danish homes have unique features such as thatched roofs, oil heating systems, or outdated insulation. A professional inspection (tilstandsrapport) is crucial to avoid unexpected renovation costs.
Tip: If you’re new to the market, partnering with a relocation consultant or property lawyer who has experience with foreign buyers can help you navigate these challenges smoothly.
What the Numbers Say on Buying Property in Denmark
Average Property Prices Nationwide
According to Investropa, as of mid-2025, detached and terraced houses across Denmark average around DKK 17,821 per m², while owner-occupied flats trade at approximately DKK 16,105 per m².
In Copenhagen, property prices are notably higher:
- City-wide averages reach up to DKK 55,000 per m², especially for owner-occupied apartments.
- Prime central areas (e.g., Indre By, Frederiksberg, Vesterbro) often command between DKK 56,600–60,000 per m²—and in the most prestigious locations, they exceed DKK 65,000 per m².
FAQ About Buying Property in Denmark as a Foreigner
Can foreigners buy property in Denmark?
Yes, but the rules differ depending on your citizenship and residence status. EU/EEA citizens living in Denmark can generally buy without restrictions. Non-EU citizens and foreigners without permanent residency typically need approval from the Ministry of Justice.
How do I get permission from the Ministry of Justice?
You must apply in writing, explaining your connection to Denmark — for example, work, family, or long-term residence. Approval can take several weeks, so it’s best to start the process early if you know you’ll need it.
Can foreigners buy holiday homes in Denmark?
In most cases, no — unless you have lived in Denmark for several years or receive special permission. Holiday homes (sommerhuse) are protected to preserve local communities and prevent speculation.
Do I need to live in Denmark to buy a property?
Not always. EU/EEA citizens with ties to Denmark can sometimes buy without living here. Non-EU buyers often need a valid residence permit and Ministry of Justice approval.
Are property prices in Denmark high?
Prices vary widely. Copenhagen and Aarhus are expensive compared to smaller towns and rural areas. According to Statistics Denmark, the average price for an owner-occupied flat in Copenhagen was over 47,000 DKK per m² in 2024, while in rural areas it was significantly lower.
How much deposit do I need?
Typically, banks require at least 5% of the purchase price as a down payment if you’re eligible for a mortgage. For foreigners without a Danish credit history, the required down payment can be much higher, sometimes 20–40%.
Are contracts and property documents in English?
No, official documents are in Danish. It’s highly recommended to hire a lawyer or certified translator to ensure you fully understand what you’re signing.
Do I have to pay property taxes?
Yes. Expect to pay annual property tax (ejendomsskat) and, for some urban properties, a coverage tax (dækningsafgift). The amounts vary depending on location and property type.
