Denmark Student Visa 2027: What You Need
Learn how to get a Denmark student residence permit in 2027, including admission rules, tuition and funds, the steps and fee, work rights, and the new rules from October 2026.
Eleanor Hastings
Last updated
Why Study in Denmark
Denmark offers high-quality universities, hundreds of programmes taught in English, modern teaching that values teamwork and creativity, and a safe, happy society. If you come from outside the EU or EEA, you need a residence permit for study from the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI). Your permit is linked to one specific study programme, and being admitted does not automatically mean your permit will be approved. You must also study full-time, because part-time study does not qualify.
Admission and Programme Requirements
You must be admitted to a full-time higher education programme at a publicly accredited or state-approved institution. You also need to understand the language of instruction well enough to take an active part in your classes. Choosing a state-approved programme is important, because your work rights and options after graduation depend on it. Contact the international office of your university early, because it completes part of your application.
Tuition Fees and Proof of Funds
Students from outside the EU, EEA and Switzerland usually pay tuition, which Study in Denmark lists at roughly DKK 45,000 to 120,000 a year for full degrees, depending on the programme. For your permit, you must show that you can support yourself with DKK 7,426 per month of study (2026 level), or up to DKK 89,112 for 12 months. You can prove this with a recent bank statement in your own name, no more than 30 days old, or with a scholarship or student loan that has been granted. Always check the exact tuition with your university.
Steps to Apply
First, apply to your programme and receive your admission letter. Next, create a case order ID on the official SIRI website and pay the application fee of DKK 3,060. Then your university completes its part of the application, and you complete yours with your proof of funds and other documents, and submit it. Give your biometrics if you are asked to, and apply early, because processing usually takes about two months, or up to three months if SIRI needs more information. If you are under 18, your parents must also sign a consent form.
Working While You Study
On a state-approved programme, you can usually work up to 90 hours a month from September to May, and full-time in June, July and August. This can help with living costs, but you cannot count future work income as proof of funds. Make sure you never work more than your permit allows, because breaking the rules can put your permit at risk. If you study a programme that is not state-approved, different rules may apply, so check before you start working.
Can Your Family Join You While You Study?
For most new students, no. For applications submitted on or after 1 October 2026 for bachelor’s and master’s programmes, spouses, partners and children generally cannot get permits as accompanying family. PhD students are not affected, and earlier applications may follow the old rules.
Can You Stay in Denmark After Graduating?
Yes, for a while. After a state-approved programme, you can apply for a job-seeking permit, which is available for up to one year for applications submitted from 1 October 2026. If you find a job, you can then apply for a work permit.
Do You Need to Speak Danish?
Not if your programme is taught in English. You only need to follow the language of your programme, but learning some Danish helps in daily life and when looking for work.
Check if you qualify for a Denmark student permit →
References
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