Residence in Denmark: permits and requirements
Living legally in Denmark is possible through 6 permit types: work, family, study, international protection, permanent. Each program has its own requirements; below are the duration, renewal, costs and documentation according to the country's official sources.
Skilled Work Residence Permit (Opholdstilladelse)
Residence type #1 of 6
Residence permit for skilled third-country workers with a job offer in Denmark under the positive lists system
Requirements
- Job offer in a profession included in the Positive List (list of shortage professions)
- Minimum salary according to collective agreement or industry standard
- Degree or qualification relevant to the position
- The employer must be registered in Denmark
- No criminal record
Documentation
- Valid passport
- Signed work contract
- Degree/qualification certificate
- Proof of minimum salary according to the agreement
- Criminal record certificate
- Biometric photos
- SIRI application form
Frequently asked questions about residence in Denmark
How many types of residence permits are there in Denmark?
Denmark offers 6 residence permit types, grouped into the categories work, family, study, international protection, permanent. Each permit has its own requirements, duration and documentation, detailed in this fact sheet according to the country's official sources.
How long do residence permits in Denmark last?
Durations vary by permit type: Up to 4 years (contract duration + 3 months); 2 years (renewable; permanent after 8 years of residence meeting the requirements); Duration of the program (renewable); Convention (§7.1) and protection (§7.2): 2 years extendable; temporary (§7.3): 1 year; permanent only via the general route (8 years). The exact details of each type appear in the corresponding fact sheet.
Can residence permits in Denmark be renewed?
It depends on the type: 5 of 6 permits are renewable. Each fact sheet on this page indicates whether the permit in question allows renewal.
What documentation is usually required to reside in Denmark?
Although each permit requires its own file, the most recurrent documents are: Datos biométricos; Valid passport; Formulario de solicitud; Certificado de antecedentes penales. The complete list by residence type appears in each fact sheet, together with the corresponding official link.
Does residence in Denmark lead to nationality?
Yes, through the Naturalization by residence pathway, which requires 9 years’ continuous residence (8 for refugees and stateless; 6-8 spouses; 2 Nordic). The complete requirements are in the nationality fact sheet of Denmark.
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Anything to correct or add about Denmark?
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