Health

Healthcare in Denmark is publicly funded, largely free at the point of use, and consistently ranked among the best in the world. The system is financed through Denmark’s comprehensive tax structure and provides universal access to medical services for all registered residents, regardless of nationality or income.

For expats and immigrants living in Denmark, understanding how to access and navigate the Danish health system is one of the most important early steps after arrival. The process begins with registering for a CPR number (Det Centrale Personregister), Denmark’s central civil registration number, which unlocks access to almost all public services including healthcare.

Once registered, residents receive a yellow health insurance card (sundhedskort) that identifies their assigned general practitioner (praktiserende læge or simply ‘min læge’). This GP is the entry point into the Danish healthcare system and the person you contact for non-emergency medical issues, referrals to specialists, and mental health support. Hospital care, specialist appointments, and most medical treatments are free for registered residents, including accident and emergency services.

Dental care in Denmark operates differently, with adults typically paying a significant portion of dental costs out of pocket or through private dental insurance, though children under 18 receive free dental care through the public system. Prescription medications are partially subsidised. Mental health services are available through both the public system and a growing network of private practitioners, with awareness of expat mental health challenges increasing significantly in recent years.

Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and rehabilitation services are accessible through referral from a GP. For visitors to Denmark who are not registered residents, EU citizens with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) are entitled to necessary medical treatment during their stay.

Non-EU visitors are advised to hold comprehensive travel insurance. Understanding the Danish health system empowers you to use it confidently and effectively from the moment you arrive.