embassy country
DK

Denmark Embassy & Consulate Guide

The Royal Danish Embassy and its associated consulates manage all entry requirements for travellers wishing to visit Denmark, Greenland, and the Faroe Islands. As a member of the Schengen Area, Denmark follows standardised visa procedures for short-stay visitors, while maintaining specific national regulations for long-term residency, work, and study permits. Applying for a Danish visa requires a combination of digital preparation and an in-person appointment. Most applications are initialised through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' 'ApplyVisa' portal, followed by a visit to a diplomatic mission or an authorised service provider like VFS Global for biometric enrolment. Efficiency and attention to detail are hallmarks of the Danish immigration system, and applicants are expected to provide comprehensive documentation to support their stay. Please note that visa policies and fees are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with the official Danish embassy or consulate in your jurisdiction before submitting your application.

Key highlights

  • Official hub for Schengen and National visa processing for Denmark.
  • Access point for work, study, and family reunification permits.
  • Biometric data collection required for most first-time applicants.
  • Strict adherence to 'Main Destination' Schengen rules.
  • Special requirements for travel to Greenland and the Faroe Islands.
  • Digital application pre-payment via the ApplyVisa portal.
  • Mandatory travel insurance requirements for all short-stay visitors.

Processing time

15 - 45 calendar days

During peak summer and holiday seasons, processing times can extend to 45-60 days. Always apply early.

Estimated cost

~$135 - $150

  • Schengen Visa Fee (Adults)€90 / ~$98 USD
  • Schengen Visa Fee (Children 6-12)€45 / ~$49 USD
  • VFS Global Service FeeVariable (approx. $30-40)

Requirements

  • Applicant must have a valid reason for travel (tourism, business, family visit).
  • Passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the intended stay.
  • Proof of financial sufficiency (approx. DKK 500/day for hotels).
  • The applicant must not be listed as a persona non grata in the SIS.
  • All documents must be in English or a language accepted by the specific consulate.
  • Travel insurance must cover the entire duration of the stay.
  • Pre-payment of the visa fee through the official online portal.
  • Cover letter explaining the purpose and itinerary of the trip.
  • Proof of 'will to return' (e.g., job letter, property ownership).
  • Invitation letter if visiting friends or family (requires VU1 or VU2 form).

Documents you'll need

  • Valid passport (issued within 10 years, 2+ blank pages)
  • Completed and signed visa application form
  • Two recent passport-sized photos (ICAO standard)
  • Proof of travel insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
  • Round-trip flight itinerary bookings
  • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
  • Bank statements for the last three months
  • Employment contract or proof of student status

How to apply, step by step

  1. 1

    Register on ApplyVisa

    Visit the official ApplyVisa portal to create an account and fill out the electronic application form.

  2. 2

    Pay the Visa Fee Online

    Pay the mandatory visa fee online using a credit or debit card; keep the 'Cover Letter' generated by the system.

  3. 3

    Schedule your Appointment

    Book an appointment at the nearest Danish Consulate or VFS Global centre for biometric data collection.

  4. 4

    Prepare the Document File

    Gather all supporting documents, including flight bookings, insurance, and financial statements as per the checklist.

  5. 5

    Attend the Visa Centre

    Attend your appointment to submit your passport and documents, and provide your fingerprints.

  6. 6

    Application Assessment

    Your application is forwarded to the embassy or the Danish Immigration Service for a decision.

  7. 7

    Passport Collection

    Once a decision is reached, you will be notified to collect your passport or have it couriered to you.

Tips to avoid refusal

  • Always check if you need a specific visa for Greenland; a standard Schengen visa is not sufficient.
  • Ensure your travel insurance has no deductible and covers COVID-19 related illness.
  • Do not purchase non-refundable flights until the visa is granted; use 'reservations' instead.
  • If you are self-employed, provide a business license and recent tax returns.
  • Ensure your bank statements are recent—usually no older than one week at the time of submission.
  • Double-check that the name on your application matches your passport exactly.

Frequently asked questions

Related visa guides

Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.