Whether you want to move to Denmark for the Danish pastries or the coveted work-life balance, making the leap across the Atlantic and setting up life in Denmark is no small venture.
For many, the thought of moving to Denmark, especially from the US, is nothing short of a dream. It is also not difficult to see why this is so. Its communities of happy locals and a rich welfare system are of great appeal to many.
But how easy is it to move to Denmark? What do you need to know about this exciting journey?
To help you get started or settle into the Danish way of life with ease, here’s everything you need to know – from legal steps and finding the perfect place to live to making social connections.
Why Move to Denmark?
First things first – is Denmark a good place to live? Yes, it is. This small country of almost 6 million people has consistently ranked as one of the happiest countries in the world.
The Danes enjoy a high standard of living, excellent healthcare, and a fantastic work-life balance. As a parent too, you gain access to a high-quality education system for your children.
Moving to Denmark also means being part of a community that cares about sustainability and environmental well-being. From the clean streets of Copenhagen to the innovative green solutions you will find all around, Denmark is a dream destination for those who want a high quality of life with a minimal carbon footprint.
How to Immigrate to Denmark – What Are Your Options?
If you are set on making your move to Denmark more permanent, there are a few routes you can pursue or consider on how to immigrate to Denmark. The main routes include:
- Family Reunification: If you have close family in Denmark, you might be eligible for family reunification.
- Work Visa: Denmark has visa schemes that allow skilled professionals to live and work in the country.
- Study: Enrolling in a Danish university can give you the pathway to live, study, and potentially work after graduation
Legal Essentials for Your Move to Denmark – Getting Your Danish Welcome
Before you hop on that plane, let’s talk about what’s needed to make your stay legal in Denmark.
Whether you are wondering how to move to Denmark from the US or what it is you need to live and work in Denmark as an EU/EEA citizen, this guide outlines what you need to know about your move to Denmark:
General Requirements for Your Move to Denmark
If you are from outside the EU, like the US, you can enter Denmark for up to 90 days without a visa, provided you have a valid passport.
However, if you wish to stay longer, you will need a visa. For that, you need to apply for temporary residency, which is valid for 5 years. With a temporary residency visa, you can work and even get access to healthcare and education.
For full immigration and a permanent residency visa, you must:
- Live in Denmark for 8 years
- Work here for 4 years at a certain income level.
Visa and Residence Permits for Foreigners
Denmark has a variety of visa options depending on your purpose of stay. If you are a student, Denmark offers study permits.
For workers, there are several options including the Positive List for people with skills in high-demand areas and the Pay Limit Scheme if you secure a job with a certain salary threshold.
Getting a Denmark visa for US citizens is the first step, and there are helpful resources available from the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI).
Work Opportunities for Moving to Denmark
If you are moving to Denmark for work, start researching companies and roles early. Denmark offers residence permits through special work programs like the Positive List and the Pay Limit Scheme.
These programs invite skilled professionals in fields like engineering, IT, and medicine. Once you have a job offer, you can apply for your work permit and settle into a lifestyle where your downtime is just as important as your work hours.
The Danish work culture values skills and productivity over endless hours. So prepare to embrace the balance they love.
Learning Danish, while not essential, can give you a competitive edge in the job market. It will also make your integration into life in Denmark, especially the work-life harmony, a bit smoother.
Sorting Out Your Finances Upon Your Move to Denmark
Once you have your residence permit, the next step is to set up a Danish bank account to make everyday payments easy (you will also want to avoid those hefty currency exchange fees).
Get a CPR Number
A CPR number is a personal ID number that everyone in Denmark must have. This number’s required to open a bank account, access healthcare, and a few more services.
You can register for one at your local Citizen Service Center once you have secured your residence permit. Oftentimes, it comes with your residence permit.
Choosing a Bank
Danish banks like Danske Bank, Nordea, and Jyske Bank offer great options for setting up a personal account. While the exact protocol and policy varies by bank, the basics are pretty much the same.
The essentials you need to set up your bank account in Denmark include:
- A photo ID
- Your residency status such as proof of employment and address (your student status, if you are one)
- Your CPR number
Getting MobilePay
In Denmark, everyone from your neighborhood café to street food vendors use MobilePay. MobilePay is a mobile payment app that you can use for online and in-store payments and subscriptions.
Securing Accommodation with Ease After Your Move to Denmark
Denmark, especially cities like Copenhagen and Aarhus, has a high demand for housing. Starting your search for a house early is highly recommended.
Finding your home will depend on the area you choose, and if you’re moving to Copenhagen, expect higher prices due to its popularity. However, the smaller cities and towns are more affordable.
Renting Basics
Rentals in Denmark are typically unfurnished, so you will be paying for some of the household essentials you need to make your space your own.
On average, expect to pay between 4,000 DKK to 6,000 DKK for a room in a shared flat. If you move to the city center, this cost increases to an average of 7,000 DKK.
Websites like BoligPortal, Lejebolig, and even Facebook Marketplace can be helpful in your house search online.
Get a Feel of the Neighborhoods
If you are moving with your family and feel buying a house is more cost-effective, you should understand the neighborhoods here before you make a permanent commitment to living there.
Even if you wish to rent, considering the neighborhood is equally important. Each neighborhood has its stand-out qualities and vibe.
- Nørrebro is lively and multicultural.
- Vesterbro is trendy
- Østerbro is calm and family-friendly.
Spend some time getting to know the areas to see where you feel most at home.
Danish Healthcare – Your Key to Quality, Affordable Care
One of the best parts of living in Denmark as an American is the healthcare. Once you have a residence permit, you can enjoy free healthcare services since healthcare gets funded by taxes. Your CPR number is all the magic number you need to access healthcare services.
Choosing a General Practitioner (GP)
After you register for your CPR number and receive it, you will get to choose a doctor as your general practitioner. This doctor will be your first stop for medical care unless you require the attention of a specialist. Visits to your GP are generally free.
Specialist Care
Your general practitioner will refer you to a specialist if you need to see one. Denmark has a strong focus on preventive care. So you will have access to regular checkups and screenings.
Life in Denmark – What to Expect on Your Move to Denmark
So, what’s life in Denmark really like? In a word – delightful! The Danes love their bicycles, their pastries, and their sense of community.
Plus, the Danish people are also known for being friendly yet reserved. The strong sense of individual freedom and social responsibility in the country is palpable.
Additionally, the culture around work in Denmark is different than that in the US. Denmark values efficient work but draws a hard line at overtime. It encourages employees to enjoy a social life, hobbies, and family time after hours.
Living in Denmark as an American might mean adjusting to this. But you will likely find the work-life balance refreshing.
Moving to Copenhagen, the Heart of Denmark
When most people think of Denmark, Copenhagen springs to mind. So, a lot of people new to Denmark often choose Copenhagen as their city of residence. For expats, moving to Copenhagen can be an incredible experience.
As Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen offers everything from a vibrant art scene to a wide array of restaurants and historical landmarks. It’s also worth noting that Copenhagen is a hub for tech, making it an exciting place for professionals.
Moreover, if you’re worried about missing home, the city’s international community is active. There are groups and meetups for every interest.
Living in Denmark – Pros and Cons
Living in Denmark offers so many positives. But like any other place, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Pros
- Excellent healthcare and education are accessible to all residents.
- There is a work-life balance and respect for personal time.
- Denmark is one of the safest countries in the world, making it an ideal place for families.
Cons
- The cost of living is high, especially in cities like Copenhagen
- Winters are long and dark here and it can take some adjustment, especially if you’re used to a sunnier climate.
Tackling the Language Barrier as an English Speaker with Confidence
Danish may be a tricky language for English speakers, but that should not trouble you much. Many Danes speak fluent English, and you will have plenty of resources to help you pick up the basics.
Denmark offers free language courses for new residents. So you can start learning Danish right away. Most classes get organized through your local municipality and are a great way to meet other expats.
Tips for Making the Move to Denmark Smooth
Moving to a new country is always an adventure, but there are a few challenges that expats in Denmark often face. To face these challenges and overcome them, these tips will come in handy:
- Learn the language so you integrate and make connections easily
- Embrace the culture by respecting social norms like punctuality and recycling.
- Building a social circle will make your experience truly enjoyable.
- Join local clubs or activities that can turn into a hobby.
Bottom Line – Is Moving to Denmark Right for You?
If you are searching for a place that values work-life balance, cares about the environment, and is one of the friendliest spots for expats, then yes, moving to Denmark is a fantastic choice.
Whether it’s the appeal of Denmark’s social policies, or simply the thrill of starting fresh in a new country, Denmark welcomes those ready for an adventure.
From navigating the ins and outs of how to immigrate to Denmark to understanding what life in Denmark is like, this guide gives you a solid foundation. Pack your bags, brush up on Danish phrases, and get ready to live your Danish dream.
