You will need two important cards during your semester abroad: A Danish Residence Permit and a CPR Card. Refer to our resources outlining what each card is used for here.
The guidelines outlined on this page are relevant to students from Entry Visa-Required countries (for example: China, Nigeria, and Turkey). Find a full list of Entry Visa-Required countries here.
Your Legal Residence Process depends on both 1) the passport you enter Denmark on and 2) where you live in or around Copenhagen during your time as a DIS student. It is therefore very important to pay attention to your specific process, as it may differ from that of your peers.
Read the information here closely and look out for communications from DIS. DIS will send you individualized instructions on how to apply for your Residence Permit and CPR Card.
Timeline for Your Legal Residence Process as an Entry Visa-Required Student
Your Legal Residence Process consists of two parts:
Part 1: Applying for Your Residence Permit
Your Residence Permit is proof you are a legal resident of Denmark during your time as a DIS student. It is especially important to have when traveling.
If you are a student from an Entry Visa-Required country, you are required to have a Danish Residence Permit to enter Denmark. You must apply for your Residence Permit and receive an entry sticker (inserted into your passport) prior to your departure. DIS will reach out and prompt you to start this process in the months leading up to your departure.
The steps for your Residence Permit process are below:
Step 1: Receive an email from DIS with next steps an a guide to completing the application
About four months before the program begins, you will receive detailed instructions from DIS on how to apply for your Danish Residence Permit.
Step 2: Schedule an appointment to submit your application
After receiving the instructions from DIS, you will need to schedule your appointment at a visa processing center so DIS knows to open an application on your behalf.
Step 3: Complete application and attend in-person appointment
DIS will send you the information to complete the application, which must be done before attending your appointment.
Step 4: Receive approval and visa entry sticker in your passport before departing to Copenhagen
After the appointment, it can take up to two months for the Danish Immigration Service to process your application. Once approved, you will be notified and will receive an entry visa in your passport which allows you to travel to Denmark and enter the Schengen area.
The DIS Visa Team will check in with you throughout the process to ensure you’re on track and will also be available for any questions.
Please note: You are responsible for paying the Residence Permit fee and a Consulate fee as part of your Residence Permit application. You will also be responsible for coordinating and paying for travel to a visa processing center. Your school might pay on your behalf; refer to the Tuition and Fees page for more information. If you have further questions, contact DIS@DISabroad.org.
Part 2: Applying for Your CPR Card
Your yellow CPR Card is equivalent to a social security number. It gives you access to social systems, including the use of free Danish healthcare, while living in Denmark. Obtaining a CPR Card is the mandatory second step in your Legal Residence Process.
Step 1: Receive “Next Steps” email from DIS and submit application
A few days before your departure, we will send you detailed information about your next steps, along with all relevant documents (i.e. Residence Letter, proof of address) needed for your CPR registration. Please read this email carefully, as it includes important information about how you will apply for your CPR Card during your first week in Copenhagen.
Please note: It is required that you apply for a CPR Card within five days of arriving in Denmark. Depending on where you live, you may have to complete an online application, register in person at your local kommune, or both. Remember to pay attention to your individualized process!
Step 2: Receiving your Cards
Approximately 2-3 weeks after you have applied for your yellow CPR Card, both your Residence Permit and your CPR Card will be sent to your home address in Denmark. Please make sure that your name is on your mailbox at your housing site. If you do not receive either card, make sure to contact your kommune to check on the progress.
Need to see a doctor before you receive your CPR Card? You can still access Danish medical care. Find information about visiting a doctor or hospital in Denmark here.
What Should I Do Before Departure?
- In the months leading up to your departure, keep an eye out for communications from DIS and follow the instructions you receive from the North American Office about obtaining your Residence Permit
- Ensure you have added the Student Hub email (studenthub@dis.dk) to your ‘safe senders’ or contact list. Follow these instructions based on your mail provider
- A few days before you depart, look out for emails from DIS with important information about your CPR application process. You will have to complete the application for your CPR Card during your first week in Copenhagen
What Do I Need to Enter Denmark on Arrival Day?
When you enter Denmark, you will need to show the entry sticker in your passport and your Residence Permit decision letter.
The entry sticker will be inserted into your passport by the Danish Consulate in New York or your local embassy. The Residence Permit decision letter will be emailed directly to you before you receive your passport back with the entry sticker. You should print this letter and have it on hand just in case more clarification is needed about the length of your stay.