Denmark consistently ranks among the countries with the best telecommunications infrastructure in the world. According to the European Commission’s Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI) 2023, Denmark scored among the top EU countries for connectivity, thanks to its extensive 5G coverage, high internet speeds, and competitive broadband pricing. For newcomers, this means you can expect reliable mobile, internet, and TV services almost anywhere in the country — even in more rural areas. In other words, you can rely on well-working telecommunications in Denmark.
The Danish telecom market is modern, competitive, and user-friendly, with multiple providers offering flexible packages that can be tailored to different needs, whether you want a simple prepaid SIM card, an unlimited mobile data plan, or a bundled internet-and-TV package. As a foreigner, understanding the available options, contract terms, and service quality can save you both time and money.
In this guide, we will cover the main types of telecom services in Denmark — mobile subscriptions, internet connections, and cable TV — along with tips on choosing the right provider, costs, and the latest market statistics to help you make an informed decision.
Here are the key points in this article:
- Denmark’s Telecommunications Infrastructure: Denmark boasts one of the world’s best telecommunications infrastructures, featuring extensive 5G coverage, high internet speeds, and competitive broadband pricing, ensuring reliable services nationwide.
- Mobile Network Performance and Options: With excellent 4G and expanding 5G coverage, Denmark offers both prepaid SIM cards and postpaid contracts from major providers; many options include unlimited calls and texts, with popular brands like TDC, Telia, Telenor, and 3.
- High-Speed Internet Access and Availability: Denmark ranks within the top 10 globally for fixed broadband speeds, with widespread fiber-optic networks, especially in urban areas, offering high-speed connectivity suited for various user needs.
- Cable and Streaming Television Services: Traditional cable TV remains available but is gradually being replaced by digital streaming services like Netflix and Disney+, with bundled packages offering flexibility and a broad selection of channels.
- Practical Tips for Navigating Telecom Services in Denmark: Foreigners should obtain a CPR number for long-term contracts, compare bundled offers, consider expat-friendly providers, utilize free Wi-Fi, and prefer streaming services for flexibility in accessing content.
If you are looking for more in-depth guides and providers, you can also check out our guides Best mobile subscriptions in Denmark for foreigners, Best internet subscriptions in Denmark for foreigners, and Best cable TV in Denmark for foreigners.
Mobile Subscriptions in Denmark
Mobile coverage in Denmark is excellent, with strong 4G and rapidly expanding 5G networks. According to OpenSignal’s 2023 Mobile Experience Report, Denmark is among the top countries globally for mobile availability and speed, with average download speeds exceeding 70 Mbps.
Foreigners have two main options when it comes to mobile subscriptions: prepaid SIM cards (good for short stays or those without a CPR number) and postpaid contracts (better value for residents who can register officially). Most contracts include unlimited calls and texts within Denmark, and many also include EU roaming.
Popular providers like TDC, Telia, Telenor, and 3 (Hi3G) dominate the market, but there are also many low-cost resellers (such as Lebara or Lycamobile), which are often preferred by internationals due to their affordability and international call options.
We also have a dedicated page on the Best Mobile Subscriptions in Denmark for Foreigners, where you can compare providers in detail.
Internet Subscriptions in Denmark
Denmark is one of the most connected countries in the EU, with almost universal broadband coverage. Fiber-optic internet is rapidly expanding, especially in urban areas, and average speeds are among the fastest in Europe. According to Speedtest Global Index (2023), Denmark ranks within the top 10 globally for fixed broadband speeds, with averages around 200 Mbps.
For foreigners, the type of internet you can get depends on your address. In cities, fiber and cable broadband are widely available, while in rural areas you may find DSL or wireless broadband solutions. Most internet subscriptions require a CPR number and Danish bank account, though some providers also offer no-binding contracts for newcomers.
Many providers bundle internet with TV or mobile services, which can be a cost-effective option if you plan to stay longer.
We also cover this in depth in our page on the Best Internet Subscriptions in Denmark for Foreigners.
Cable TV in Denmark
Television in Denmark has shifted significantly toward digital streaming in recent years, but traditional cable TV packages remain popular, especially when bundled with internet and mobile subscriptions.
Most providers offer tiered TV packages that include a mix of Danish channels, international channels, and on-demand services. Foreigners often prefer flexible packages where they can add English-language channels or access international streaming services.
Here’s a quick overview comparing different TV options available in Denmark:
| Option | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cable TV (YouSee, Stofa, Waoo) | Traditional TV packages with Danish and international channels. | Wide selection of channels, often bundled with internet. | Requires CPR and address registration; less flexible than streaming. |
| Streaming Services (Netflix, HBO Max, Disney+, Viaplay) | On-demand entertainment platforms accessible online. | Flexible, available without CPR, multiple languages. | Internet required, separate subscriptions add up. |
| Bundled Packages (YouSee Play, Norlys, Waoo) | Combines internet, mobile, and TV services in one. | Cost-effective, convenient billing. | Contracts often require longer commitment. |
| Satellite TV (Canal Digital, Viasat) | International satellite channels, including English-language content. | Good for expats who want foreign channels. | Installation required, less common in cities. |
Cable TV is becoming less dominant as more households switch to streaming and on-demand content, but bundled packages remain attractive for long-term residents.
For more, see our page Best Cable TV in Denmark for Foreigners.
Practical Tips for Foreigners
Navigating telecom services in Denmark can be straightforward once you know a few key points:
- Get your CPR number first: Most long-term subscriptions (internet, mobile, TV) require a CPR number and NemID/MitID for contracts.
- Look for expat-friendly providers: Some companies, like Lebara and Lycamobile, cater to internationals with flexible, prepaid SIM cards and international calling options.
- Compare bundles: If you plan to stay long-term, bundled services (internet + mobile + TV) can save money.
- Don’t forget free Wi-Fi: Many cafes, libraries, and public spaces offer free Wi-Fi, which can be handy if your home internet isn’t set up yet.
- Streaming over cable: If you don’t watch Danish TV, you may prefer streaming subscriptions, which are easy to set up without Danish documentation.
By combining the right provider with the right package, foreigners can save money and stay connected seamlessly in Denmark.
What the Numbers Say About Telecommunications in Denmark
Denmark consistently ranks among the top countries in Europe for digital infrastructure. According to Statistics Denmark (2024), more than 95% of Danish households have access to high-speed internet, with fiber optic coverage expanding rapidly in both urban and rural areas.
Mobile penetration is also extremely high. A report from the European Telecommunications Network Operators’ Association (ETNO, 2023) notes that Denmark has over 7.2 million active SIM cards, meaning there are more subscriptions than residents. This reflects the popularity of dual SIM usage and multiple devices per person.
Streaming is another key trend. Data from the Danish Agency for Culture and Palaces (2023) shows that 80% of Danes use at least one paid streaming service, with Netflix, Viaplay, and Disney+ leading the market. This shift has gradually reduced the reliance on traditional cable TV.
When it comes to costs, the European Commission’s Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI, 2023) highlights Denmark as one of the most competitive telecom markets in the EU, with prices for mobile data and broadband lower than the EU average while maintaining high speeds and reliability.
FAQ About Telecommunications in Denmark
Can I get a mobile subscription in Denmark without a CPR number?
Yes, but your options are limited. Without a CPR number, you can only purchase prepaid SIM cards (e.g., from Lebara, Lycamobile, or supermarket chains). For postpaid contracts, a CPR number and MitID are required.
How expensive is mobile data in Denmark?
Mobile data in Denmark is relatively affordable compared to other EU countries. According to the European Commission (2023), Denmark is among the cheapest in Europe for high-volume data packages. Many providers even offer “unlimited data” plans at competitive rates.
Is 5G widely available in Denmark?
Yes. All major telecom operators (TDC, Telia, Telenor, and 3) have nationwide 5G coverage, especially in urban areas like Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Odense. Coverage in rural areas is improving but may still rely on 4G.
Do I need a TV license in Denmark?
No, not anymore. The old TV license system was replaced in 2019 with a media tax that is automatically collected via income tax. You do not need to register separately for watching TV or streaming.
What’s the easiest way to get internet for a short stay?
For short stays, mobile broadband or prepaid SIM cards with hotspot features are the best choice. Fiber or fixed broadband usually requires a contract (minimum 6 months).
Can I keep my old number when switching providers?
Yes. Number portability is standard in Denmark. When you sign up with a new provider, they will handle the transfer from your old provider.
Which telecom providers are best for foreigners?
For long-term residents, TDC, YouSee, Telia, and 3 are popular. For newcomers or short stays, Lebara and Lycamobileare often recommended for their international call packages and flexibility without CPR requirements.
