Any Nordic or EU/EEA citizen can start a business in Denmark. If you are from outside the Nordic countries, EU/EEA, or Switzerland, you have to apply for a residence and work permit before arriving in Denmark. There are many programs, such as “The Positive List,” “The Pay Limit Scheme,” “Researchers and Guest Researchers Program,” and “Start-up Denmark,” which can all be found here.

How to Apply for Residence and Work Permits:

• Applications for work and residence permits are typically submitted to a Danish diplomatic mission in your home country
• The application process typically takes 1-3 months
• The application form and guidelines can be found here
• You must either submit your application in person or appear in person to have your biometric features recorded no later than 14 days after application submission
• If you already legally reside in Denmark, you can submit your application here, at a Danish police station, or in the Citizen Centre of the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration

CPR Registration:

• After arriving in Denmark, you must register your address in the Civil Registration System (CPR) to receive a Civil Registration number (CPR number)
• Contact International Citizen Service or the Borgerservice at your local municipality
• Bring the following (in English, German, or a Scandinavian language):
  • Residence and work permit and its copy
  • Original passport/national ID card with photo and its copy
  • Proof of address in Denmark (e.g. rental contract letter from landlord) and its copy
  • Original marriage certificate and its copy (if you are married and even if your partner is not coming with you)
  • Divorce/death certificate (if applicable to your spouse)
  • Original birth certificates and copies for accompanying children under 18
• You now must apply for a health insurance card here

Tax Registration:

• Foreigners must also apply for a tax number and tax card by completing Tax Form 04.063
• More information on the SKAT website

Register Your Business:

• Register your company with the Danish Commerce and Companies Agency no later than 8 days before you start any dutiable activities
• Register your business at Virk.dk

Sources

• Work in Denmark: Start Your Own Business
• New to Denmark
• Work in Denmark: About International Citizen Service
• Life in Denmark: Healthcare
• SKAT: Application for Tax Card and CPR Number
• SKAT: First Steps/Tax Information

• Work in Denmark: Start Your Own Business
• New to Denmark
• Work in Denmark: About International Citizen Service
• Life in Denmark: Healthcare
• SKAT: Application for Tax Card and CPR Number
• SKAT: First Steps/Tax Information