Moving to a new country can feel overwhelming, but in Denmark, the process is well-structured and support is available.
If you would like to learn more about life as a student in Denmark, visit the official guide below.
- Study in Denmark – official information for international students
Here you will find practical information about health, safety, and everyday life as a student.
Moving to a new country can feel overwhelming, but in Denmark, the process is well-structured and support is available.
If you would like to learn more about life as a student in Denmark, visit the official guide below. Here you will find practical information about health, safety, and everyday life as a student.
Getting started as an international student
As an international student, there are a few practical steps you need to take before and after arriving in Denmark.
Useful information about residence permits, health insurance, and working while studying can be found on:
You can also find a general guide to settling in Denmark here:
When you arrive in Denmark, you will typically register your address, receive your CPR number, and gain access to public services such as healthcare.
CPR number
The CPR number is your personal identification number in Denmark. It gives you access to essential services such as healthcare and public administration.
Before you can apply for a CPR number, you need a few other documents depending on where you come from:
Once you have applied, your yellow health insurance card should arrive within two to three weeks. Remember to make sure you have health insurance coverage until then
Bank account
To receive payments in Denmark, such as SU or salary, you will need a Danish bank account. This can usually be set up after you have received your CPR number.
We recommend that all international students open a Danish bank account. When choosing a bank, it is a good idea to ask fellow students for recommendations. Opening a bank account is typically a simple process. You will usually need to bring:
It is important to bring enough money for your first weeks in Denmark. You will need funds to cover:
Make sure your credit card can be used in Denmark and check your withdrawal limits before travelling.
If you already use an international bank, you may be able to transfer money from your home account to your Danish account. Transfers between accounts are also possible in the other direction.
MitID (digital ID)
MitID is your digital login for public services in Denmark. You will use it for things like banking, communication with authorities, and official applications. You will need to have your CPR card before being able to use your MITID.
As an international student in Denmark, it is important to understand how the healthcare system works, so you can access the help you need when necessary.
The Danish healthcare system is funded through taxes and is known for its high quality. If you are registered as a resident in Denmark, you will usually have access to free or subsidized healthcare services, including visits to your general practitioner and hospital treatment.
The healthcare system in Denmark is organized into three main levels:
• Primary care: General practitioners (GPs) are your first point of contact. They provide basic treatment, advice, and, if needed, refer you to specialists.
• Secondary care: This includes hospitals and specialized clinics, where you may receive more advanced examinations or treatment.
• Tertiary care: Highly specialized hospitals and centers provide treatment for more complex medical conditions.
Most healthcare services are free for residents in Denmark, including visits to your GP, hospital treatment an emergency service. However, some costs are not fully covered: dental care (for students over 21) and prescription medicine. You may consider taking out additional health insurance to help cover these costs. Some dentists also offer discounts for students.
To access the Danish healthcare system, you need a CPR number. Once you have your CPR number, you can choose a general practitioner (GP). Your GP will be your main point of contact for medical care, so it is a good idea to select one located close to your home. You may also want to check that the doctor speaks English or offers access to an interpreter.
In case of a serious or life-threatening emergency, call 112 immediately. You will be connected to the appropriate emergency services, such as an ambulance, the police, or the fire department. For non-urgent medical issues, you should contact your GP.
If you need medical assistance outside your GP’s opening hours, or during weekends and public holidays, you can contact the regional emergency doctor on-call. They can guide you and provide medical help when your regular doctor is unavailable.
Learn more about how the Danish healthcare system works on the official government website for new citizens in Denmark!
As a student, you can apply for an Ungdomskort, which gives you discounts on public transport between your home and Zealand. It can be used on buses, trains, and the metro, making it easy and affordable to travel to campus. The Ungdomskort is subject to various conditions depending on whether you are 16-19 years old, or a student in higher education.