Denmark

Gud, Konge Og Fædreland
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overview

Welcome to Denmark

Denmark, located in Northern Europe, is known for its high quality of life, sustainable living, and rich cultural heritage. Its economy is driven by renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, and advanced manufacturing, with a strong focus on innovation and green technology. The country's vibrant cities, like Copenhagen, and its scenic countryside make it a popular destination for expatriates and tourists seeking a balance of modernity and tradition.

overview

Denmark Essentials

National Anthem

Der er et yndigt land

Independence Day

5 June, 1849 (Constitution day)

Haiko

Breezes by the shore / Viking ships sail through the past / Hygge warms the night.

Interesting Tradition

Celebrates Fastelavn, the Danish version of Carnival.

Weirdest Local Superstition

Believed that if you burn your Christmas tree before New Year’s Eve, you’ll have bad luck

Strangest Law Still on the Books

Illegal to start a vehicle if you’re not wearing a seatbelt

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Come for the history, stay for the future

Come for the design, stay for the innovation: Denmark merges timeless elegance with cutting-edge sustainability. Life moves between morning meetings in Copenhagen’s sleek architecture and afternoon bike rides through lush green spaces, while evenings embrace cozy gatherings in hygge-inspired homes. With progressive policies and a strong startup ecosystem, Denmark has become a hub for forward-thinking professionals seeking a balanced, creative lifestyle.

overview

Kom med

discover a land where simplicity isn’t just a style, but a way of living. Here, every corner invites you to experience a perfect balance of innovation and tradition, where modern design and timeless hygge create a lifestyle that feels like home.

overview

Velkommen til Danmark

Known for its rich Viking history, charming cobblestone streets, and a commitment to sustainability and happines

Denmark isn't just a country—it's a masterclass in balance and beauty. Here, time glides between Viking heritage and cutting-edge design, and even a simple bike ride becomes a journey through history and innovation. This is a land where cozy hygge and modern sophistication blend seamlessly, creating a lifestyle that feels effortlessly inspiring.

From the skyscraping canyons of New York to the actual canyons of Arizona, the United States offers adventure for every kind of dreamer. Whether you're drawn to the innovative spirit of San Francisco, the jazz-soaked streets of New Orleans, or the pristine wilderness of Alaska, you'll find a nation that turns diversity into its greatest strength.

Statistics

Savor the Flavor

Eat

Smørrebrød (open-faced sandwich with various toppings) - Frikadeller (Danish meatballs)

Drink

Gammel Dansk (herbal bitters) - Karsk (coffee with alcohol, often vodka)

overview

Tørstig?

Beer

Annual consumption (liters per capita)

58.64

Wine

Annual consumption (liters per capita)

24.93

Coffee

Annual consumption (liters per capita)

-

Tea

Annual consumption (liters per capita)

0.51

overview

Cultural Tips and Etiquette

#1
Locals are called 'Danes' and take pride in their hygge lifestyle, valuing comfort and coziness in daily life.
#2
Punctuality is highly valued, and being on time for meetings or social events is considered a sign of respect.
#3
Danish people often enjoy cycling, and it's common to see people cycling everywhere, even in winter.
#4
"Fika," or coffee breaks, are a social ritual, often accompanied by pastries or cake, and are important for bonding.
#5
Directness in communication is common; Danes tend to be straightforward and appreciate honesty.

overview

Denmark Essentials

Representative Novel

Out of Africa" by Karen Blixen

National Animal

Mute swan

National Pasttime

Football

National Souvenir

Traditional Viking-inspired memorabilia

National Dish

Stegt flæsk med persillesovs (Roast pork with parsley sauce)

Famous Festival

Roskilde Festival

Famous Dance

Spillemandsmusik

Famous Music

Viking Dance

overview

Did You Know?

Has the oldest continuously used national flag in the world, dating back to 1219

Drinks more coffee per capita than almost any other country in the world

Home to the world's oldest amusement park, Bakken, which opened in 1583

overview

Denmark’s Key Historical Events

800-1050

April 2014

The Viking Age marks a period of expansion and exploration by Danish Vikings, during which they established settlements across Europe, including in England, Ireland, and Normandy.

1536

July 2014

Denmark officially adopted Lutheranism as the state religion during the Reformation, with King Frederick I declaring it the official faith, leading to significant religious and political changes.

1658

February 2015

Denmark ceded significant territories, including Scania, Blekinge, and Halland, to Sweden under the Treaty of Roskilde, marking a shift in the power balance in Scandinavia.

17th-19th Century

March 2015

Denmark established colonies in the Caribbean, Africa, and India, with territories like the Danish West Indies (now the U.S. Virgin Islands) playing a significant role in Denmark’s global influence.

1849

October 2016

Denmark adopted its first constitution, transitioning from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy, granting greater political rights and freedoms to citizens.

MOBILITY

Access Denmark Residency Rights on the GlobalPassport™ Platform 

NO. OF Mobility Assets

2
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MOBILITY

Citizenship Pathways and
Residency Requirements

Citizenship by Birth
Yes
Citizenship by DESCENT
Yes
Citizenship by MARRIAGE
3 years
DUAL Citizenship
Yes
RESIDENCY BY Naturalization
7
PASSPORT VALIDITY
11 years, 5 for children

MOBILITY

Passport Power

Visa Free Countries

159

Performance Class

World-Class Access

Passport Grade

A

Rank

13

Score

177.9

This visa grants access to:

• 47% of the world's population 

• 81% of UNESCO sites 

• 76% of global GDP 

• 61% of the world's land area 

MOBILITY

Visa-free access to:

MOBILITY

Number of American Emigrants to Denmark by Year 

Year
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
Denmark
6,411
7,504
8,596
9,857
10,647
11,883
14,528

MOBILITY

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Select up to 3 Mobility Assets
Mobility Asset
Approval Time (est.)
Appointment Availability
Term (i.e. duration)
Minimum Investment
Physical Presence Requirement
Cost of Living
English Usage
Quality of Life
Healthcare Ranking
Passport Power
Visa-free Country Access
Number of American Expats
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Rankings

Denmark's Global Rankings 

Denmark, located in Northern Europe, is known for its high quality of life, sustainable living, and rich cultural heritage. Its economy is driven by renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, and advanced manufacturing, with a strong focus on innovation and green technology. The country's vibrant cities, like Copenhagen, and its scenic countryside make it a popular destination for expatriates and tourists seeking a balance of modernity and tradition.

Exceptional performance
Standard performance
Needs Improvement
Rankings are based on 2023-2024 Global Indices and Assessments from recognized international organizations. Updated quarterly to reflect the most recent available data
7
Cost of Living
2024
Premium
1
Quality of Life
2024
Exceptional
8
Safety
2024
Very High
2
Happiness
2024
Very High
176
Tax Burden
2024
Heavy Load
4
English Proficiency
2023
Very High Proficiency
1
Rule of Law
2024
Unbrakeable
16
Healthcare System
2024
Highly Efficient
7
Pleasant Climate
2024
Very Pleasant

Healthcare

Healthcare Overview

Key Health Indicators

Median Age

81.3

years

Life Expectancy

15.70%

years

Obesity Rate

17.00%

Tobacco Use

15.00%

Sources

Health care Indicators

Health Expenditure

3.0

of GDP

Hospital Beds

2.51

per 1000 people

Doctors

4.26

per 1000 people

Out-of-pocket

13%

of total expenditure

Sources

Healthcare

Did you Know?

Universal Healthcare System

Denmark offers a universal healthcare system, providing free medical services to all residents and citizens through its public hospitals, ensuring accessible healthcare for everyone.

Private Healthcare Sector

Denmark has a well-developed private healthcare sector, offering high-quality medical services for those who prefer quicker access or more specialized care, often with short waiting times compared to the public system.

Healthcare for Expats

Expatriates living in Denmark are entitled to public healthcare under the same conditions as Danish citizens. Many expats also opt for private health insurance to cover additional services and treatments.

Medical Tourism Hub

Denmark has a growing reputation in the medical tourism industry, especially for procedures in fertility treatments, dental care, and specialized surgeries, all provided with high standards of care.

Pharmaceutical Accessibility

Pharmaceuticals in Denmark are widely available and well-regulated, with medications easily accessible at competitive prices, especially through the well-established public healthcare system.

Healthcare

United Healthcare Coverage Service Index (2000 - 2021)

The World Health Organization's United Healthcare Coverage Service Index (2000-2021) data describes the coverage of essential health services, defined as the average coverage of essential services based on tracer interventions that include reproductive, maternal, newborn and child health, infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases and service capacity and access, among the general and the most disadvantaged population.
Source:

Healthcare

Denmark Healthcare Cost Calculator

This calculator helps you compare healthcare expenditures between different countries based on per capita health spending data. The tool provides a straightforward comparison by allowing you to:
1. Select your current location from the dropdown menu
2. Choose a comparison country to see the difference in healthcare costs

The calculator displays two key metrics:
• Healthcare Expense Difference: The absolute dollar amount difference in per capita healthcare spending between the selected countries
• Percentage Difference: The relative difference expressed as a percentage
Please note that these calculations are based on annual per capita health expenditure data, which includes current prices and purchasing power parities (PPP). The figures represent total healthcare spending, encompassing both public and private healthcare expenses. For the most accurate planning and decision-making, please consult with healthcare providers or insurance companies in your target country for specific coverage options and costs.
Source:

cost of living

Cost of Living Overview

Denmark has a high cost of living, reflecting its strong economy and high standards of living. Copenhagen, the capital, is the most expensive city, while smaller towns and rural areas are more affordable but still costly by international standards. Housing in Copenhagen can be particularly expensive, with limited availability driving up rental prices. Outside the capital, housing is more accessible and reasonably priced.

Cost of Gasoline

$2.01

per liter

Cost of Meal

$21.17

(Inexpensive Restaurant)

Monthly Rent

$1.17

(1 bedroom, City Center)

Monthly Utilities

$214.96

(85m² Apartment)

Domestic Beer

$7.06

(0.5 liter draught)

VAT Rate

25%

cost of living

Denmark Cost of Living plus Rent Map

cost of living

Denmark Cost of Living Calculator

cost of living

Denmark Rent Calculator

Taxation

Taxation Overview

Denmark taxes residents on worldwide income and non-residents on Danish-source income. The tax system includes state taxes, municipal taxes, labor market contributions, and church tax for members of the Danish State Church.

Tax Residency Requirement

183 days

Worldwide Income Taxation

Yes

Higher Rates for Foreign Assets

No

US Double Taxation Treaty

Yes

Personal Income

Progressive tax rate based on income levels

12.64%-52.07%

Personal Capital Gains

Flat rate on investment gains

27%-42%

Inheritance

Based on inherited amount and relationship

22.00%

Corporate Income

Standard corporate tax rate applied to business profits

22.00%

Corporate Capital Gains

Tax rate applied to capital gains from corporate investments

15%-36.25%

Dividends

Withholding tax rate applied to dividend distributions

27.00%

Interest

Withholding rate interest payment to non-residens

22.00%

Royalties

Withholding tax rate for royalty payments

22.00%

Work Assignment

Foreign individuals are tax residents if they have permanent residence in Denmark or stay for more than six consecutive months.

Overall Ranking

Global position in PWC’c Ease of Paying Taxes ranking

8

Ease of Paying Taxes Score

Overall score based on multiple factors

91.1

Total Tax and Cotribution Rate

TTCR percentage including all mandatory contributtions

23.8
%

Time to Comply

Annual hours required to comply with tax regulations

132
HOURS

Number of Payments

Total number of tax payments required annually

10

Post-filing Index

Score measuring the ease of processes after filing taxes

89.1
%

taxation

Denmark Tax Burden Map

taxation

Denmark Income Tax Calculator

This calculator helps you estimate your income tax obligations based on your personal situation and country of residence. The calculation includes essential tax elements specific to each jurisdiction, such as personal allowances, various types of deductions or tax credits, and progressive tax rates where applicable. The estimation considers multiple key inputs that vary by country, including your annual gross income (in USD), marital status when relevant, number of dependent children, as well as additional factors like medical expenses, educational costs, and retirement contributions.

The calculator provides three main results:
• Total Deductions and/or Tax Credits (based on jurisdiction-specific rules)
• Net Taxable Income (income subject to tax)
• Final Income Tax amount
Please note that these calculations are estimates and can vary significantly depending on specific circumstances, additional income sources, special deductions, and changes in tax regulations across different countries. Some jurisdictions may use tox credits instead of deductions, have different qualifying criteria for dependents, or consider various types of expenses differently. For precise tax planning and compliance, please consult with a qualified tax professional familiar with your jurisdiction's tax laws.
Source:

CLIMATE

Climate Type

Temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cold, wet winters

Average Temperature

8.3°C

Humidity

79

%

Average Annual Precipitation

746

mm

Rainless Days per Year

186

Best Time to Travel

May-September

Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions About Gaining Residency or Citizenship in Denmark

Find answers to common questions about GlobalPassport™ and our tools guiding you towards residency or citizenship in Denmark

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