Moving to a new country means navigating a lot of unfamiliar systems and healthcare is often one of the most important ones. In Denmark, the healthcare system is publicly funded and widely regarded as efficient, accessible, and of high quality. However, as a foreigner in Denmark, your access to it depends on your residency status, your length of stay, and whether or not you have a CPR number (the Danish personal identification number). This is where a health insurance in Denmark comes in.
In this guide, we will help you understand how health insurance in Denmark works, whether you’re moving to Denmark for work or study, coming on a short-term contract or wanting to establish a long-term commitment to the country. We will walk you through how the public system operates, who is covered, what your options are before you get fully registered, and what kind of private health insurance in Denmark is available for foreigners if needed.
Here are the key points in this article:
- Denmark’s Healthcare System Overview: Denmark offers a publicly funded healthcare system that is efficient and of high quality, but access for foreigners depends on residency status, length of stay, and CPR registration.
- Reasons for Private Health Insurance in Denmark: Private insurance helps fill gaps such as long waiting times, limited coverage for certain services, and reduces dependency on the public system by providing faster access and more choices.
- Coverage and Limitations of Private Insurance: Private plans typically cover specialist care, private hospitals, dental, physiotherapy, mental health, vision, and second opinions, but do not include emergency care, which remains public.
- Eligibility and Cost of Private Insurance: Anyone legally residing in Denmark, including foreigners, can obtain private insurance, with costs varying based on coverage level, age, health, and whether obtained privately or through an employer.
- Key Factors When Comparing Plans: Consider coverage scope, waiting periods, reimbursement processes, limits, language support, portability, and reputation of providers to find the most suitable private insurance plan in Denmark.
Find the Right Health Insurance in Denmark for You
If you are looking for detailed guides on different types of health insurances in Denmark, and what we recommend to find the right health insurance in Denmark, you may want to check out our other guides, where we cover these topics in detail:
- Best Health Insurance for Foreigners in Denmark
- Best Critical Illness Insurance in Denmark for Foreigners
- Best Life Insurance in Denmark
How Health Insurance in Denmark Works
While the Danish public healthcare system is free and comprehensive for residents, many people, Danes and foreigners alike, choose to supplement it with private health insurance in Denmark. Unlike in some countries, health insurance in Denmark isn’t a replacement for public coverage, but rather a way to gain faster access to treatment, expanded services, or reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses not covered by the state.
So let us explain how health insurance works in Denmark, who typically uses it, and what it covers.
Why Do People Choose to Have a Health Insurance in Denmark?
Even though the public system provides high-quality care in Denmark, it has limitations such as:
- Long waiting times for non-urgent treatments
- Limited coverage for dental, physiotherapy, mental health, and vision
- Fewer choices when it comes to selecting specialists or private clinics
- No reimbursement for some prescription drugs, unless part of a long-term treatment plan
A private health insurance in Denmark helps fill these gaps. Many employers offer it as part of a benefits package, but individuals and families can also make their own arrangements and sign up with a provider.
Key reasons Danes and foreigners living in Denmark choose private insurance:
- Faster access to treatment and diagnostics
- More freedom to choose clinics or specialists
- Additional coverage for services not fully funded by the public system
- Peace of mind when navigating health issues – which may be good to have as a newcomer and foreigner in Denmark, too.
What Does Health Insurance in Denmark Cover?
Coverage varies by provider and policy, but typical private health insurance plans in Denmark often include:
- Specialist care without GP referral
- Coverage at private hospitals and clinics
- Dental treatments (including orthodontics)
- Physiotherapy, chiropractic, acupuncture
- Psychological or psychiatric consultations
- Eyeglasses and vision care
- Second opinions from specialists
- Access to medical advice hotlines (often 24/7)
- Travel health coverage (some plans have this, although not all)
Note that private insurance generally does not cover emergency care, which is always handled through the public system. Also, most private plans work as reimbursement schemes, so you pay upfront, then file a claim, and get reimbursed afterwards.
Who Can Get Private Health Insurance in Denmark?
Anyone legally residing in Denmark can apply for private health insurance, regardless of whether they’re a citizen, permanent resident, or a newly arrived foreigner. Some providers also offer international health insurance for those staying temporarily or those who are maybe not yet registered in the public system.
If you have moved to Denmark for a job, you’ll see that employers often include private health insurance in employment contracts, particularly for full-time workers or high-skilled professionals. But again, this does not apply to every job, of course. If you’re not covered, you can apply directly through insurance companies.
How Much Does Health Insurance Cost in Denmark?
Private health insurance in Denmark can vary significantly in cost depending on the type of coverage, the provider, and whether the insurance is arranged privately or through an employer.
In general, there are two broad categories of private health insurance in Denmark: supplementary insurance and full private coverage. Supplementary insurance is typically used to get partial reimbursements for specific healthcare services not fully covered by the public system, such as dental care or physiotherapy. These plans are relatively inexpensive and accessible, and they are often used by long-term residents and locals.
Full private insurance plans provide access to private hospitals, specialists, and a broader range of services. These tend to be more costly, especially if purchased independently rather than through an employer.
Several factors influence the price of private health insurance:
- Age and health status: Younger individuals in good health generally pay lower premiums.
- Coverage level: The more comprehensive the plan (e.g. including mental health, dental, vision, and alternative treatments), the higher the cost.
- Deductibles and co-pays: Plans with lower deductibles or higher reimbursement caps will typically cost more.
- Employment status: Some employers offer private health insurance as part of a benefits package, which can reduce or eliminate the cost for the employee.
Monthly premiums for individual plans typically range from modest to high depending on these variables. For those opting for full coverage, it is not unusual to pay several hundred Danish kroner per month, especially for broader access and faster service. If international or expat-specific coverage is required, costs may be significantly higher due to added flexibility and cross-border treatment options.
It is also important to consider that some plans come with annual limits, meaning the insurer will only reimburse up to a certain amount each year, depending on the treatment category. Additionally, many policies include a waiting period before certain types of treatment are covered, which can impact your access early in the coverage period.
Things to Look for When Comparing Private Insurance Plans
When you are evaluating private health insurance in Denmark, I would advise you to go beyond the monthly cost and examine how well a plan fits your needs, especially as a foreigner navigating a new healthcare system. Below, I have outlined a few key points to consider when comparing the plans.
Coverage scope
Look carefully at what services are included. While most plans cover access to private hospitals and specialists, not all include dental care, psychological services, or physical therapy. Some plans also offer preventive health checks or coverage for alternative treatments such as acupuncture or chiropractic care.
Waiting periods
Many insurers impose waiting periods, especially for elective treatments. This means that even after signing up, you might need to wait one to three months before making claims for certain services. Be sure to check whether any treatments are excluded during this initial period.
Reimbursement vs. direct billing
Most private health insurance in Denmark operates on a reimbursement basis, so you pay for the service upfront, then submit a claim for reimbursement. It is important to understand the reimbursement process, how long it takes, and what documentation is required. Some high-end or international plans may offer direct billing arrangements with selected providers.
Annual and per-treatment limits
Policies often include a maximum amount they will cover per treatment or per year. For example, coverage for dental care may be limited to a specific amount annually, regardless of the total cost of treatment. Understanding these limits is essential for budgeting and avoiding unexpected expenses.
Language and accessibility
For non-Danish speakers, it is worth checking whether the insurer provides support and documentation in English or other languages. This includes customer service, claim forms, and policy explanations. Some international providers specialize in expat coverage and may offer more comprehensive language support.
Flexibility and portability
If you plan to move within Europe or return to your home country, consider whether the policy offers flexibility to continue coverage across borders. International health plans are often more adaptable but may come at a higher cost.
Claims process and provider reputation
Finally, research the insurer’s reputation in terms of claims handling, customer service, and general reliability. A provider with a straightforward and transparent claims process can save you considerable time and frustration.
Health Insurance in Denmark by the Numbers
If you’re new to Denmark, it can feel overwhelming to understand how health insurance works. Here’s a quick look at some useful facts and figures to help you get a sense of the system and how it applies to foreigners.
| Statistic / Insight | Details |
|---|---|
| 6 million people covered by public health insurance | Denmark’s universal healthcare system covers all legal residents, including most foreigners. |
| ~90% of Danes rely solely on public healthcare | Only about 10% purchase private health insurance for faster or specialized care. |
| 250,000+ foreign nationals live in Denmark (as of 2023) | Many are automatically covered by public health insurance after registration. |
| 60% of expats report confusion about health insurance upon arrival | Language barriers and system complexity are common challenges. |
| Private health insurance premiums: €30–€100/month (average) | Prices vary depending on coverage level, age, and provider. |
| Over 1 million people in Denmark have private health insurance | Often offered as a benefit by employers, including to foreign workers. |
| 95% satisfaction rate with Danish healthcare (according to Euro Health Consumer Index) | One of the highest in Europe, despite waiting times in non-urgent care. |
| Foreign students usually not covered unless they have a CPR number | Private health insurance is recommended until they get residence rights. |
These numbers give a snapshot of the broader picture: most people are covered by the public system, but private insurance is growing in popularity, especially among expats and international workers who want faster access to care. Knowing how the system works in Denmark can help you make better choices for your health and peace of mind.
FAQ About Health Insurance Policies in Denmark
Do foreigners need health insurance in Denmark?
If you are registered as a resident (with a CPR number), you are generally covered by Denmark’s public healthcare system. However, if you are in Denmark on a short stay (such as a tourist or waiting for residence registration), you are not automatically covered and will need private travel or health insurance.
What does the public health insurance cover?
Public health insurance covers general practitioners (GPs), hospital treatment, and many specialist services, usually free of charge. It does not fully cover dental care, physiotherapy, vision, or certain mental health treatments unless referred by a GP.
How do I register for public healthcare?
Once you have a CPR number and register your address with the municipality (kommune), you will be enrolled in the public healthcare system and receive a yellow health card (sundhedskort). This card gives you access to services like your GP, hospital care, and specialist referrals.
Can I use a private doctor or clinic in Denmark?
Yes. Many Danes and foreigners choose private doctors for quicker access, broader options, or specific treatments not covered by the public system. This usually requires private health insurance or out-of-pocket payment.
Is dental care included in public health insurance?
Only partially. Adults pay most dental costs themselves. Subsidies are available for some basic treatments, but private dental insurance is common for better coverage.
Do students need private health insurance in Denmark?
EU/EEA students with an EHIC card can access public healthcare during short stays. Non-EU students or those staying longer than three months need to register for a CPR number to get full access to the public system. Until then, private insurance is necessary.
What’s the difference between supplementary and full private health insurance?
Supplementary insurance covers services partly included in the public system (like dental or physiotherapy). Full private insurance provides access to private clinics, faster appointments, and broader treatment options. Some plans are employer-sponsored, while others are arranged individually.
Can I keep my international insurance from home?
Some international insurance plans are accepted, particularly short-term travel or student plans. However, if you’re living in Denmark long-term, local authorities may require you to register with the Danish health system and may not accept foreign insurance as sufficient.
