Can I leave the airport with a Denmark Transit Visa?

An Airport Transit Visa (ATV) only allows you to stay in the international transit zone. You cannot leave the airport or enter the Schengen territory.

Who needs an Airport Transit Visa for Denmark?

Citizens of certain countries (e.g., Afghanistan, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, Sri Lanka, and others) require an ATV even if staying in the international zone.

Do I need a transit visa if I have a US Green Card?

No, if you hold a valid Schengen visa or a residence permit from a Schengen country, EU/EEA member, USA, Canada, or Japan, you are usually exempt.

What if I have a long layover and want to stay in a hotel outside the airport?

If your connection requires you to change terminals by passing through passport control, you will likely need a regular Type-C Schengen Visa, not an ATV.

Is the Danish Transit Visa different from a Schengen Visa?

No, Denmark is part of the Schengen Area, so a Danish Transit Visa functions as a Schengen Transit Visa for the international zones of Schengen airports.

How early should I apply for a Danish Transit Visa?

You should apply at least 15 days before your trip, but no earlier than six months in advance.

Where do I physically go to submit my application?

VFS Global is the official partner for the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs in most countries. Check their website for your local application centre.

How long is the transit visa valid for?

Generally, transit visas are issued for the specific dates of your travel, though they may allow for a return journey if applied for as double-entry.

visa type country

transit visa

Denmark Transit Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time

A Denmark Transit Visa, often referred to as an Airport Transit Visa (ATV), is a specific permit required by certain nationalities to pass through the international transit area of Danish airports without entering the country's national territory. This is most common for travellers transiting through Copenhagen Airport while en route to a non-Schengen destination. It is important to note that an ATV does not allow you to exit the airport or stay in a hotel outside the terminal area. The necessity of this visa depends entirely on your nationality and any residency permits you may hold from other Western nations. If your journey involves changing airports within the Schengen area or leaving the international zone to re-check baggage, you will likely require a standard Category C Schengen Visa instead. Always verify current requirements with the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the nearest embassy, as rules are subject to change based on international security protocols.

Key highlights

Allows passage through Copenhagen Airport (CPH) international zone
Required for specific nationalities even for short layovers
Mandatory for transiting between two non-Schengen countries via DK
Standardised Schengen visa fees apply for all applicants
Biometric data collection required at an application centre
Proof of final destination visa is a critical requirement
Covers both single and double-entry transit journeys

Processing time

15 calendar days

Processing times may increase during peak summer holiday periods or if additional documentation is requested by the consulate.

Estimated cost

~$130

Schengen Visa Fee (Adults)€90 (approx. $98)
Schengen Visa Fee (Children 6-12)€45 (approx. $49)
Service Provider Fee (VFS Global)Varies by location

Requirements

Nationality must be on the list of countries requiring an Airport Transit Visa (ATV)
The journey must involve a transit through the international zone of a Danish airport
Possession of a valid passport with at least two blank pages
The traveller must not intend to enter the Danish national territory
Proof of onward travel to a country outside the Schengen Area
Applicants must have a valid visa for their final destination if required
Travel insurance must be valid for the duration of the transit period
No prior record of Schengen visa overstays or security alerts
Minors must provide a birth certificate and notarised parental consent if travelling alone
Application must be submitted in the applicant's country of residence

Documents you'll need

Original passport valid for at least 3 months after intended transit
Completed and signed Schengen Visa application form
Two recent passport-compliant photographs (35x45mm)
Confirmed flight tickets for the entire journey to the final destination
Valid visa or entry permit for the final destination country
Travel medical insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage
Proof of financial sufficiency for the duration of the airport stay

How to apply, step by step

1
Check Eligibility
Determine if your nationality requires an Airport Transit Visa for Denmark by checking the latest Schengen visa common list.
2
Prepare Documentation
Gather all necessary documents, including your onward flight itinerary, final destination visa, and medical insurance.
3
Complete Online Application
Complete the official Schengen visa application form (Type A) online via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal.
4
Schedule Appointment
Book an appointment at the nearest Danish Embassy or, more commonly, a VFS Global application centre for biometric collection.
5
Submit Biometrics & Fees
Attend your appointment to submit documents, pay fees, and provide fingerprints and a digital photograph.
6
Wait for Processing
The consulate will review your application, which typically takes 15 days; you can track your status via the service provider's website.
7
Passport Collection
Collect your passport from the application centre or via courier once a decision has been reached.

Tips to avoid refusal

Ensure your flight is booked as a single ticket; self-transfer flights often require entering the country to collect bags.
Verify that your passport does not expire within three months of your transit date.
Carry a printed copy of your travel insurance certificate at all times.
Check if your transit involves moving between terminals that require passing through passport control.
Double-check that you have the correct visa for your final destination before applying for the transit visa.
Apply at least three weeks in advance to account for any unexpected administrative delays.

Frequently asked questions

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PermitlyHQ provides informational software tools only and does not offer legal, immigration, or consulting services. Visa policies change frequently — always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying.

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