If you are not an EU citizen and want to visit Denmark, you typically need a visa. But which one? It depends on how long and why you want to stay here.
Schengen visa (type C)
A Schengen visa is the general short-term visa for the Schengen area. It entitles you to stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period in the entire Schengen area — not just Denmark.
Typical purposes
- Tourism ( tourist visa ).
- Family and friends visits .
- Business trips and trade fairs.
- Cultural or sporting events.
- Emergency medical treatment.
National visa (type D)
A national visa (D-visa) is used when the stay is to last longer than 90 days, or when you need to stay in Denmark before a final residence permit is issued. It is primarily valid in Denmark — not in the entire Schengen area.
Typical purposes
- Enter while awaiting processing of a work permit or study permit.
- Internship under the internship scheme.
- Artist residencies and special research positions.
- Emergency family reunification in special situations.
Visa-free entry
Citizens from approximately 60 countries can travel to Denmark without a visa for up to 90 days (USA, UK, Japan, Australia, etc.). The visa requirement is stated in EU Regulation 2018/1806.
How to choose correctly
- Are you staying in Denmark/Schengen for a maximum of 90 days? → Schengen visa.
- Are you going to stay longer than 90 days? → National visa or an actual residence permit .
- Are you going to work or study? → As a general rule, you need a work permit or study permit, not just a visa.
What if the application is rejected?
Visa refusals are frustrating, but not necessarily final. You can appeal to the Immigration Board within the deadline, and the refusal must be justified. Appeals require legal argumentation directed at the reasons for refusal.
Need help with your visa application ? Contact us for a no-obligation assessment .
Do you need help with a visa application?
We have more than 10 years of experience in immigration law and have won over 150 appeal cases in the Immigration Appeals Board. Get a no-obligation initial discussion about your case — we will respond within 24 hours.
