Who Needs a Student Visa or Residence Permit?

Understanding whether you need a visa or a residence permit is crucial before you embark on your academic journey in Denmark.

• Nordic Citizens (Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland): No visa, residence permit, or work permit is required to live, study, or work in Denmark. However, you must carry official identification at all times.
• EU/EEA and Swiss Nationals:
  • Short Stays: Can reside in Denmark for up to three months with just a valid passport.
  • Long Stays: For stays longer than three months, you must apply for a Danish registration certificate within three months of your arrival, which is issued by the Regional State Administration.
• Non-EU/EEA Citizens:
  • Short Stays: Require a visa for stays under three months.
  • Long Stays: Require a residence permit for stays over three months, which is the standard for full degree programs.

Key Visa Types

Residence Permit (ST1) for Non-EU/EEA Students

If you are from outside the EU/EEA and plan to study in Denmark for more than three months, you must obtain a student residence permit before arriving.

Eligibility

To qualify for the residence permit (ST1), you must be admitted to a higher education program that is approved by a Danish state authority or offered by a publicly accredited institution.

How to Apply

1. Acceptance Letter: Obtain your official acceptance letter from the Danish university.
2. Application Form: Fill in the application (ST1) form. This is often initiated by your host institution.
3. Biometric Appointment: Schedule an in-person appointment at the nearest Danish diplomatic mission to record your biometric data (digital photo and fingerprints).
4. Submit Documents: Submit the application along with all required documents listed below.
5. Application Fee: Pay the visa application fee, which is approximately EUR 310, although fees may vary by country.

When to Apply

It is advisable to apply at least three months before your intended arrival, as processing typically takes about 60 days.

Required Documents

When applying for the residence permit, you will generally need:

• Acceptance letter from your Danish educational institution
• Completed and signed application form (ST1)
• Valid passport (ensure it has the required validity and blank pages)
• Recent passport photo
• Proof of language proficiency (usually English or Danish, depending on your program)
• Proof of travel insurance
• Proof of payment of the visa/residence permit fee
• Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself (approximately €1000 per month)
• Information about your study program and planned accommodation arrangements

Financial Requirements

You must demonstrate that you have enough funds to support yourself during your studies, generally a minimum of around €1000/month for the expected duration of your stay.

Work Rights for Students

Understanding your work rights while studying in Denmark is equally important.

• Nordic, EU/EEA, or Swiss Citizens: These individuals can work freely without hourly restrictions during their studies.
• Non-EU/EEA Students: You are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week from September to May and can work full-time during June, July, and August.

Permit Duration

The duration of your residence permit corresponds to the length of your program, with a maximum of two years for guest or part-time students.

After Arrival in Denmark

Upon your arrival in Denmark, it is necessary to register your address at your local municipality to obtain your Danish CPR number (personal registration number), which is essential for accessing health insurance and additional services.

Additional Notes

• Any incomplete or falsified documents can lead to application rejection.
• Family members may also apply for residence permits, provided you can financially support them. Their permits generally match the duration of your student permit.

Conclusion

Navigating the requirements for studying in Denmark may seem complex, but with the right information and guidance, the process can be efficient. Study in Denmark is committed to facilitating international education and can provide essential support as you prepare for your study abroad experience. Feel free to reach out to discuss your needs, partnerships, or any questions regarding studying in Denmark. Together, we can make your academic aspirations a reality.

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