Denmark is increasingly becoming a top destination for international students, offering high-quality education, innovative teaching methods, and a high standard of living. For non-EU students, the path to studying in Denmark involves a specific visa process known as the Residence Permit for Study. This process is handled by the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI).
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the requirements, application process, costs, and key updates for non-EU students applying for a Danish student visa in 2026.
Part 1: The Visa You Need – Residence Permit for Study
If you are a non-EU/EEA citizen, you need a Residence Permit for Study to study in Denmark for more than 90 days . You cannot apply for this permit upon arrival; you must apply from your home country.
Processing Time: Standard processing time is 2 months. However, during peak periods (May–August), it can take longer .
Stays Under 90 Days: If your course is shorter than 90 days, you may need a short-stay Schengen visa (Type C). However, most degree programs exceed this limit .
Part 2: The Application Process – Step by Step
Step 1: Check if You Need a Visa
Use the “Where to apply” guide on the SIRI website or the Danish embassy/consulate in your home country to confirm your specific requirements .
Step 2: Secure Your Admission
You must have an official Letter of Admission from a Danish university that is accredited by the Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Science .
Step 3: Pay Your First Tuition Fee Instalment
Unlike some countries where you only need to show proof of funds, Denmark requires you to pay the first tuition fee instalment before applying . This is a crucial step, as you will need proof of payment with your application.
Step 4: Gather Your Documents
Prepare the required documents (see Part 3). All documents must be translated into Danish or English by a certified translator, if they are in another language .
Step 5: Submit Your Application Online
You must apply online through the official SIRI portal. You will need to create a case order ID, fill out the application form, upload all documents, and pay the application fee .
Step 6: Provide Biometrics (Fingerprints and Photo)
After submitting your online application, you must visit a Danish diplomatic mission (embassy or consulate) in your home country to have your fingerprints and photo taken. You must book an appointment for this .
Step 7: Wait for Processing
SIRI will process your application. You can check the status online using your case order ID.
Step 8: Receive Your Decision
If approved, you will receive a residence permit. You can then travel to Denmark. Upon arrival, you must register with the local municipality (Borgerservice) within 90 days .
Part 3: Required Documents Checklist
This checklist is crucial for a complete application. Missing documents are a primary cause of delays or rejections.
| Category | Required Document | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Identity | Valid passport | Must be valid for the duration of your stay; include copies of all pages with stamps and visas |
| Application Form | Completed online | Generated after creating your case order ID |
| Admission | Letter of Admission | Official letter from a Danish university |
| Tuition Fee | Proof of payment | Receipt for the first tuition fee instalment |
| Financial Means | Proof of funds | Minimum of DKK 7,934 per month (approx. €1,064) for the study period. Accepted forms: personal bank statements, education loan letter, or scholarship letter |
| Housing | Proof of accommodation | Tenancy contract or confirmation from university housing office |
| Health Insurance | Insurance documentation | Required if you are a private health insurance holder; generally not needed if you have a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or are from a country with a reciprocal agreement |
| Scholarship | Proof of scholarship | If applicable, official documentation of any scholarship you have received |
| Photos | Biometric photo | Must meet specific ICAO standards; check the embassy website for requirements |
Part 4: Financial Requirements – The “Sufficient Funds” Rule
One of the most critical parts of the application is proving you have enough money to support yourself during your stay. The Danish government sets a specific minimum amount.
How Much Do You Need?
For 2026, the minimum required amount is DKK 7,934 per month (approximately €1,064). For a standard academic year (10 months), this totals DKK 79,340 (approx. €10,640) .
Accepted Forms of Proof
- Personal bank statements in your name showing the required amount (in your home country bank account) .
- Education loan sanction letter from a recognized bank, showing that funds are available for you .
- Scholarship letter from a recognized organization or government .
- Funding from parents: If your parents will support you, you may need to submit their bank statements along with a notarized affidavit of support .
Important: Unlike Norway, Denmark does not require you to deposit the money into a Danish bank account before applying . However, you must provide documentation that the funds are available to you.
Part 5: Costs and Fees (2026)
| Item | Cost (DKK) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Residence Permit Application Fee | DKK 2,150 (approx. €290) | Non-refundable; includes fee for biometrics |
| Biometrics Appointment Fee | Included in application fee | Covers fingerprinting and photography at the embassy/consulate |
| Tuition Fees | Varies by institution | Paid directly to the university; you need proof of payment before applying |
| Living Expenses (Minimum) | DKK 7,934/month | Funds must be documented in your application |
| Total Estimated First Year | DKK 100,000 – 120,000 + tuition | This is a rough estimate of the combined fees and documented living costs |
Part 6: Working While Studying
One advantage of the Danish student visa is the work allowance. For non-EU students, the rules are:
- You are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year .
- You can work full-time during June, July, and August .
- This work allowance is automatically granted with your residence permit and does not require a separate application .
Part 7: Post-Graduation Opportunities
Denmark offers a favorable pathway for students who wish to stay after graduation. The Establishment Card (Etableringskort) allows you to stay for up to 2 years after completing your degree to search for work or start a business . This card is a significant advantage for non-EU students compared to many other European countries.
Part 8: Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Why It’s a Problem |
|---|---|
| Applying too late | Processing times can be long, especially in peak season. Apply as soon as you receive your admission and have paid your first tuition instalment . |
| Missing document translations | Documents in other languages must be translated by a certified translator. Unofficial translations are not accepted . |
| Insufficient financial documentation | The amount must be clearly documented. Vague statements or “family support” without bank statements can cause delays . |
| Not providing a copy of the entire passport | You must provide copies of all pages with stamps and visas, not just the photo page . |
| Incomplete application | Check that every field is filled and every required document is uploaded. SIRI may reject incomplete applications without review . |
Final Checklist for a Successful Application
- ☐ Secure admission to a Danish university
- ☐ Pay your first tuition fee instalment and get a receipt
- ☐ Calculate the required amount: DKK 7,934 per month for your entire study period
- ☐ Gather financial documentation (bank statements, loan letter, or scholarship letter)
- ☐ Secure accommodation and get a rental contract
- ☐ Gather all documents and have them translated into Danish or English if necessary
- ☐ Create a case order ID on the SIRI website and complete the online application
- ☐ Pay the DKK 2,150 application fee online
- ☐ Book an appointment at the nearest Danish embassy or consulate to provide biometrics
- ☐ Bring your passport and all original documents to the biometrics appointment
- ☐ Track your application online and wait for a decision
- ☐ Upon approval, travel to Denmark and register with the local municipality within 90 days
Disclaimer: Visa and immigration requirements are subject to change. This guide reflects information available as of March 2026. Always verify current requirements with the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI) and your specific university before applying.