Tips for relocating to Denmark
Denmark is one of the best countries in the world to live and work in. When you have decided to move to this beautiful country, you definitely made the right choice. Denmark is a beautiful country with a rich cultural and a huge expat community. It does not matter if you are moving from the UK, the US or from Germany, you will feel right at home in Denmark. Moving to Denmark is a thrilling new step, but there are a lot of important decisions you will have to make before settling in this country. To make life a bit easier, we have created a step-by-step expat guide for everyone who wants to move to Denmark. Everything you will need to know you will find it here!
Useful guides to get you started
Administration
Denmark is a bureaucratic country and there are a lot of rules and regulations that you need to keep in mind when moving here. Luckily, there are only a few compulsory registrations you must obtain once you live in Denmark. If you are a Nordic citizen or from another country in the EU you are entitled to live and work in Denmark. You should register officially which can be done at the ICS office in Copenhagen. As a citizen from a country outside of the EU you need to have a residence and work permit before entering Denmark. Furthermore, you will need to register at your local municipality in Denmark. This is one of the first steps in the Danish bureaucracy machine. You will get all the information you need. Moreover, you will need to be properly insured. You can easily take out a car insurance, health insurance or a travel insurance online.
Learning Danish
Almost all Danes speak English fluently. However, learning the Danish language is a plus if you want to interact with the Danish on their own level. Also, if you want to apply for a new job in Denmark, speaking Danish is a great advantage. It will help you build proper relationships with people and it shows commitment. And the best thing? The Danish government pays for Danish classes! They only do this for international employees and students over the age of 18 who have a valid Danish residence permit. If you wish to continue learning the Danish language after you have finished the introductory course, you are entitled to 3 additional years of free Danish lessons.
Housing
Once you have arrived in Denmark, housing is an important topic. It can be quite difficult to find a well-priced apartment in specific areas in Copenhagen or other big cities in Denmark. Take into consideration that central areas of most cities can be quite expensive, but they also offer you the best Danish experience. If you already have contacts in Denmark it would be smart to address them beforehand so they can help you out with finding an apartment in time.
Useful guides to get you settled
Internet providers
After you have found the right apartment, a good internet connection would be the logical next step. All internet providers in Denmark provide a stable connection and a good customer service. It is important to know what kind of Internet user you are before you get connected. Have a look at our internet provider page if you want to know more about internet connections in Denmark and the different Internet usage.
Mobile operators
Denmark is a country that has a good network coverage. There are a lot of different mobile operators on the market since the market is liberalized. You can choose between a mobile contract or a prepaid SIM card. Keep in mind that when you order a mobile contract or subscription you will need a Danish CPR number (social security number) and a Danish address. To get this social security number you will need a valid residence permit to stay in the country. If you are visiting as a tourist you will not get this number and therefore we would advise you to take out a prepaid SIM card instead. Buying a prepaid SIM card does not require a CPR number.
Danish culture
It is time to enjoy Denmark once you have got all your administrational issues in order. What is not to love about the Danish culture? The Danish are very open to newcomers and it is easy to find a connection. If you are interested in finding in a partner you can go to a Danish dating website and meet new people every day. There are lots of beautiful places for a date in Denmark. Take somebody out for a bike tour for example! One of the first things that you will notice when you arrive in Denmark is the relaxed atmosphere, the people on bikes and that everything is well arranged. Biking has become a big part of Danish culture and the Danish cities are among the most bicycle-friendly in the world (after the Netherlands).
Danish environment
Living a green lifestyle has become trending in Denmark. A lot of money has been spent recent years on a cleaning up the environment. Denmark has become a world leader in renewable energy technology with a highly efficient waste management. Climate change has not had a huge impact in Denmark so far and luckily, Denmark has currently a relatively mild climate with no extremes of heat or cold. It can become cold in winter, but that is for most Danish no problem and they like to gather inside and convey this wintery feeling as ‘hygge’. Simply enjoying the simple pleasures in winter; friends, family and hot chocolate.
Working and living in Denmark
Denmark; a country that is open, safe, clean and beautiful. The Danish are among the happiest nations worldwide. The expats in Denmark seem to agree with that since they voted Denmark one of the best places to live and work in. Denmark has a lot to offer for expats and there are a lot of interesting job offers. So why wait any longer?! Go and enjoy Denmark!