What is the visa process for studying in Denmark?

Denmark is a popular study destination for international students due to its high-quality education system, innovative learning environment, and welcoming culture. If you are planning to study in Denmark, obtaining the correct visa or residence permit is an essential step. Here’s a detailed guide to understanding the visa process for studying in Denmark.

1. Determine Your Visa Requirements

The type of visa or residence permit you need depends on your nationality:

EU/EEA/Swiss Nationals: Students from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland do not require a visa or residence permit to study in Denmark. However, they need to register with the Danish Civil Registration System for a CPR number if their stay exceeds three months.
Non-EU/EEA Nationals: Students from non-EU/EEA countries must apply for a student residence permit to study in Denmark.

2. Prepare Required Documents

Before applying for a residence permit, ensure you have the following essential documents:

A valid passport.
An acceptance letter from a Danish educational institution, confirming your enrollment in a full-time course.
Proof of financial support to cover your living expenses (at least DKK 6,589 per month for the duration of your stay).
Proof of English or Danish language proficiency, depending on the language of instruction.
Proof of health insurance coverage for your stay in Denmark.
A completed and signed application form (ST1 form for student residence permits).
Documentation fee receipt for the application (approximately DKK 1,900, subject to change).

3. Submit Your Application

The visa application process involves the following steps:

Step 1: Gather Documents: Collect all required documents and fill out the ST1 form, which you can obtain from the Danish Immigration Service website or the Danish embassy/consulate in your country.
Step 2: Apply Online or In-Person: Submit your application online via the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI) website or in person at your nearest Danish embassy or consulate.
Step 3: Biometrics Submission: After submitting your application, you must schedule an appointment to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photos) at the embassy or consulate.

4. Wait for Approval

The processing time for a student residence permit is typically 60 days. It’s advisable to apply well in advance to ensure you receive your permit before your program starts. You can track the status of your application online.

5. Post-Arrival Registration

Once you arrive in Denmark:

If your stay exceeds three months, register with the local Civil Registration Office (CPR registration) to obtain a CPR number.
Open a Danish bank account and update your health insurance details.

6. Additional Considerations

Part-Time Work: Non-EU/EEA students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during the summer break.
Renewal of Residence Permit: If your study program exceeds the validity of your initial permit, you can apply for an extension.

Conclusion

The visa process for studying in Denmark is straightforward, provided you adhere to the requirements and submit accurate documentation. Planning ahead and following the guidelines will ensure a smooth transition to this beautiful and academically enriching country. Denmark offers a vibrant cultural experience and world-class education, making it an ideal destination for international students.