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Startup Denmark Visa
VisasDenmarkStartup Denmark Visa
DenmarkDenmark•Europe
Open

Startup Denmark Visa

Work PR PathwayThis visa can lead to permanent residency, the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa. Dependents Allowed

At a Glance

Processing Time

Varies

Application Fee

6,810 DKK

Stay Duration

Varies (Extendable for 3 years at a time)

Renewable

No

Job Offer

Not Required

Dependents

Allowed

PR Pathway

Available

Remote Work

Not Required

Apply Now Official Information

Overview

Visa for non-EU/EEA entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas. Expert panel evaluation required. Initial 2-year permit with 3-year extension options. Must establish and run business actively.

Startup Denmark is a specialized residence and work permit scheme tailored for ambitious foreign entrepreneurs who wish to establish and grow innovative, high-impact businesses in Denmark. Unlike traditional business visas, this program focuses on scalability and the potential to contribute to the Danish business ecosystem. Applicants must first submit their business plan to an independent expert panel, which evaluates the proposal based on innovation, market attractiveness, and the team's capability. Only after receiving this official approval can the entrepreneur proceed to apply for a residence permit through the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI).

This visa is intended for individuals or small teams of up to three people who are committed to active, daily involvement in their venture. It provides a two-year residency period, which can be extended if the business continues to meet the program's criteria. By providing a clear pathway for international talent, Denmark aims to attract global innovators who can drive economic growth, create jobs, and integrate into the country's collaborative and sustainable business environment.

Conversion Paths

Visas you can typically switch to from this status.

Pay Limit Scheme
Denmark flagDenmark

Pay Limit Scheme

ValidityDuration of contract up to 4 years
Processing1-3 months
View Visa Details
Positive List Scheme
Denmark flagDenmark

Positive List Scheme

Validity4 years
Processing1-3 months
View Visa Details
Fast-Track Work Scheme
Denmark flagDenmark

Fast-Track Work Scheme

ValidityVaries (Depends on employment contract length)
ProcessingVaries
View Visa Details

Requirements

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Must have an innovative business idea that is scalable and has growth potential for the Danish economy.

Business idea must be approved by an independent expert panel appointed by the Danish Business Authority.

Must be a full or partial owner of the company and play an active, daily role in running the business.

Must be able to support yourself financially during the first year in Denmark (specific amounts vary by family size).

Must be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen.

Business must not be a traditional retail, restaurant, or small import/export venture.

KEY CRITERIA

Education

none or higher

Min. Savings

153,240 EUR

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Valid passport

Business plan

Proof of funds

Educational background

Professional references

Passport photo

Application Process

1

Prepare business plan: Detailed innovative business plan for Danish market

2

Submit to Startup Denmark: Online submission to Startup Denmark programme

3

Expert panel review: Independent expert evaluation of business viability

4

Plan approval: If approved, eligible to apply for residence permit

5

Apply for residence permit: With approved business plan and proof of funds

6

Permit issuance: 2-year residence and work permit granted

Application Forms

Go to application portal
Startup Denmark Application—

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