Europe
Denmark is a Scandinavian country known for its high quality of life, excellent infrastructure, and thriving startup ecosystem. As a Schengen member state, it offers visa-free access to EU/EEA citizens and 90-day stays for many nationalities. While there is no dedicated digital nomad visa, Denmark offers a Startup Visa for entrepreneurs and Working Holiday programs for young citizens from select countries. The country consistently ranks among the happiest in the world and features world-class coworking spaces, fast internet, and a strong expat community in Copenhagen.
Visa requirements vary by nationality
Short-stay visa for tourism, business visits, or visiting family in Denmark and the Schengen area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Remote work is not permitted on a Schengen short-stay visa. Denmark requires a valid work permit for any form of employment, including remote work for a foreign employer. Working remotely while on a tourist visa is illegal.
Extension: 90 days (max x)
Cost: 225 DKK
Process: Extensions are only granted in exceptional circumstances such as force majeure, humanitarian reasons, or serious personal reasons. Submit form VS2 at the Danish Immigration Service Citizen Service before your current visa expires. The person you are visiting must normally accompany you.
Renewal: Schengen visas cannot be renewed. You must apply for a new visa for subsequent trips. After using 90 days in a 180-day period, you must wait outside the Schengen area.
Short-stay visitors (under 90 days) are generally not subject to Danish taxation. However, if performing work in Denmark (which is not permitted on this visa), income could be taxable. Denmark taxes individuals present for more than 183 days within 12 months.
Residence permit for innovative entrepreneurs to establish and run high-growth startups in Denmark. Ideal for tech founders and scalable business ventures.
Minimum $153,240/per_year
Alternative: Higher amounts required if bringing family: 306,480 DKK with spouse, 356,904 DKK with spouse and children, 203,664 DKK with children only (2025 rates). Bank statement in applicant's name serves as proof.
The Startup Denmark permit is exclusively for running the approved startup business in Denmark. Holders cannot take employment outside their startup. Remote work for other companies is not permitted.
Extension: 3 years (max x)
Cost: 3,060 DKK
Process: Extensions are granted for up to 3 years at a time. Must first submit to Startup Denmark expert panel for re-evaluation, then apply to SIRI for residence permit extension. Must demonstrate continued business activity and growth. Apply before current permit expires.
Renewal: After 6 years of continuous residence, you may apply for permanent residence. After 9 years, Danish citizenship is possible (subject to language and integration requirements).
Startup Denmark visa holders are fully tax resident in Denmark. Personal income is taxed progressively up to approximately 57% (excluding labour market tax of 8%). A special expatriate tax scheme may apply: flat 27% on gross salary (32.84% with labour market tax) for up to 84 months if earning minimum DKK 65,400/month (2026). Corporate tax is 22%. R&D tax credit of 22% available.
One-year visa for young citizens from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Argentina, and Chile to travel and work part-time in Denmark.
The Working Holiday permit allows salaried employment to supplement travel funds. Remote work for a foreign employer is not explicitly addressed in the programme terms. The permit is designed for incidental salaried work, not full-time remote employment.
Working Holiday holders earning income in Denmark are subject to Danish taxation. Income tax is withheld by employers. A CPR number and tax card are required to work legally. Standard progressive tax rates apply (up to approximately 57% excluding labour market tax of 8%).
Citizens from over 60 countries can visit Denmark without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period for tourism, business, or family visits.
Remote work is not permitted under visa-free entry. Denmark requires a work permit for any form of employment, including remote work for a foreign employer. Visa-free entry is strictly for tourism, business meetings, and family visits.
Short-stay visitors under the 90/180 rule are generally not subject to Danish taxation as they fall below the 183-day threshold. However, any work performed in Denmark (which is not permitted under visa-free entry) could trigger tax obligations.
EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens have the right to live and work in Denmark without a visa or work permit under EU freedom of movement rules.
EU/EEA/Swiss citizens have full right to live and work in Denmark, including remote work. After 3 months, registration at the local municipality is required. Remote workers may need to register as self-employed or employed depending on their situation.
EU/EEA citizens living in Denmark become tax resident and are subject to Danish income tax (progressive rates up to approximately 57% excluding labour market tax of 8%). A special expatriate tax scheme may apply: flat 27% on gross salary (32.84% with labour market tax) for up to 84 months if earning minimum DKK 65,400/month (2026). Double taxation treaties apply with most EU countries.
Visa requirements can change frequently. This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or immigration authorities before making travel plans. Last updated: December 1, 2024