Denmark Startup Visa

Written by Mike Arnold Moderated by Oleksandra Dosii

Mike Arnold

Mike is a freelance writer with eight years of experience and a love for travel, all things business, tabletop games and green tea.

Oleksandra Dosii

Oleksandra is a dedicated marketer with a passion for growing HR-tech products. She believes content marketing is about delivering high-quality content that provides value—not just generating leads. Since 2016, Oleksandra has been involved in tech talent relocation.

Last update: September 13, 2024

Next update: Scheduled for February 1, 2025

Denmark, renowned for its commitment to sustainability and clean energy, provides a fertile ground for startups in these sectors. Backed by active government support, tax incentives (a cash reimbursement of 22% of losses related to R&D costs, up to a maximum tax value of DKK 25 million), and a collaborative ecosystem, Denmark could be the perfect launchpad for innovative ventures looking to make a global impact.

Therefore, if you're an ambitious entrepreneur looking to make your mark and chase a venture in a country that supports you, the Danish startup ecosystem could be for you.

And if you have a groundbreaking business idea and the drive to make it happen, the Denmark Startup Visa could be your ticket to success.

 

What are the eligibility criteria for the Denmark Startup visa?

To be eligible for the Denmark Startup Visa, you must meet the following criteria:

You must have an innovative business idea

• Your business idea must be innovative and have growth potential for the Danish economy.
• It should not be a traditional business like a restaurant, import-export company, or retail store.
• A panel of experts under the Denmark Startup Scheme will evaluate your business plan, and the visa application will only be granted if approved.

You must have business ownership and involvement

• You must be a full or partial owner of the company.
• You must play an active role in running the business.
• Your presence in Denmark must be necessary for the company's operations.

You must have financial self-sufficiency

• You need to prove you have enough money to support yourself and any family members for the first year in Denmark.
• The required amount depends on your family size.
• You can provide a bank statement as proof of funds.

The specific financial requirements per annum for 2024 are:

• Single applicant: DKK 147,912 (approximately €19,800)
• Applicant with spouse: DKK 295,824 (approximately €39,700)
• Applicant with spouse and children: DKK 344,496 (approximately €46,200)
• Applicant with children only: DKK 196,584 (approximately €26,400)

You can read more on the self-support regulations here.

The scheme mustn't exceed the annual cap

• Only 75 foreign nationals can get this visa each year.
• If unsuccessful and the limit is full, you'll need to try again next year.

For further information and to submit your business plan, visit the Danish Business Authority's web portal.

How to apply for the Denmark Startup visa

The application process is relatively simple, and you'll need to submit it to the International Recruitment and Integration Agency (SIRI).

Before you start

• Make sure you meet all the requirements for the Startup Visa as outlined above.
• If you're a commuter (not living in Denmark), you only need a work permit. You can find more information here.

Step 1: Create a Case Order ID

• Go to the online application system.
• Select "Start-up Denmark" as the case type.
• Pay the fee of DKK 2,490 (approximately €335).
• You'll get a Case Order ID. Keep this safe - you'll need it later.
• Some people don't have to pay the fee. Check if this applies to you here.

Step 2: Pay the fee

• Pay the fee online using your Case Order ID.
• Important: Make sure you create the Case Order ID, pay the fee, and submit your application all in the same year.

Step 3: Gather your documents

• Get all the required documents ready before you start filling out the application form.

• You'll need:

  ◦ Proof you paid the fee

  ◦ A copy of your passport (all pages)

  ◦ Approval from the Danish Business Authority

  ◦ Proof you can support yourself financially in Denmark

  ◦ Proof of company ownership

• If any documents aren't in English, German, Norwegian, Swedish, or Danish, you'll need certified translations.

Step 4: Fill out the application form (SD1)

• This will take about 30 minutes.
• You'll need to attach the documents you gathered in Step 3.
• Make sure you have all the information ready before you start.

The SD1 form can be found here.

Important: If you have more than 2 business partners or are applying for a branch of a foreign business, add this information in the comments section.

Step 5: Biometrics

• You'll need to give your fingerprints and have your photo taken.
• This is usually done at a Danish embassy or consulate in your home country.
• If you're already in Denmark legally, you can do it at a SIRI branch office.
• You need to do this within 14 days of submitting your application.

More information on the biometric step and how your data is used can be found here.

Step 6: Wait for a decision

• You've successfully applied if you've:

  ◦ Created a Case Order ID

  ◦ Paid the fee

  ◦ Submitted the application

  ◦ Given your biometrics

• Check the processing time online.
• SIRI will contact you if they need more information.

You can always expect to receive your decision within one month.

As with any visa application, consult the official Danish immigration website for the most up-to-date information and detailed instructions. Protocols and processes are always subject to change.

What is the valid duration of a Denmark Startup visa?

Your residence and work permit starts on the day it's granted and will initially last for up to two years. However, you can extend it up to three years at a time. There doesn't seem to be any limit on how many times you can do this.

Note: You must always apply for an extension before your permit expires. If you apply on time, you can stay and work even if your permit expires while waiting for the decision.

If your passport expires soon

Your permit can only be valid up to 3 months before your passport expires. If your passport expires sooner than your permit could be valid, your permit will be shortened to match.

Once you renew your passport, you can apply to extend your permit again - but only within the last three months of its validity.

What are the application costs of a Denmark Startup visa?

Embarking on your entrepreneurial journey in Denmark with the Startup Visa involves specific financial considerations.

Visa processing fee

The primary cost associated with the Startup Visa is the visa processing fee, which is DKK 2,490 (approximately €335 as of September 2024). This fee is non-refundable, even if your application is unsuccessful.

Self-support requirement

As per the visa requirements, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself and any accompanying family members during your first year in Denmark.

The required amounts for 2024 are:

• DKK 147,912 (approximately €19,800) if you are in Denmark without family.
• DKK 295,824 (approximately €39,700) if your spouse accompanies you to Denmark.
• DKK 344,496 (approximately €46,200) if your spouse and one or more children are accompanying you to Denmark.
• DKK 196,584 (approximately €26,400) if one or more children, but not your spouse, accompany you to Denmark.

You'll need to provide documentation, such as bank statements, to prove you meet this self-support requirement.

Other potential costs

While the visa processing fee and self-support requirement are the primary financial considerations, keep in mind other potential expenses:

• Business costs: You'll need to factor in the costs associated with establishing and running your business in Denmark, such as registration fees, office space rental, and other operational expenses.
• Travel and accommodation: If you need to travel to Denmark for any part of the application process or to attend meetings related to your business, you may incur travel and accommodation costs.
• Legal and professional fees: If you seek assistance from an immigration consultant or legal professional to navigate the visa application process or set up your business in Denmark, their fees must also be considered.

Other important things to know

Before you dive headfirst into your Danish startup adventure, here are a few additional points to keep in mind:

Ineligible businesses

• The Startup Denmark visa is geared towards innovative, high-growth potential businesses and won't accept businesses they deem not to fit this criteria.
• Traditional businesses such as restaurants, retail shops, and small import/export companies are generally not eligible for this visa.
• It's essential to ensure your business idea aligns with the program's focus on innovation and scalability.

No financing provided

• The Startup Denmark program only provides residence and work permits. It does not offer any financial assistance or investment for your business.
• You are solely responsible for securing the necessary funding and capital to launch and operate your venture in Denmark.

Danish citizens established abroad

• As of July 1, 2024, Danish citizens who are established abroad can also apply for the Startup Denmark visa.
• This provision allows them to obtain residence permits for their accompanying family members, similar to the process available to foreign applicants.

Notification of business changes

• If the nature of your business undergoes substantial changes during your stay in Denmark, you must inform the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI).
• You may need to reapply for a residence and work permit if the changes significantly alter the scope or focus of your business.

The Denmark Startup Visa offers a gateway to one of Europe's most dynamic startup ecosystems.

While the application process requires careful navigation and is designed to be accessible, a visa consultant can simplify your journey, ensuring your application is optimised for success.

Need visa assistance/immigration advice?

Fill out this form

Shoot us an email with your inquiry at [email protected].