Denmark•EuropeStudy — Higher Education (Videregående uddannelse)
At a Glance
2 months
DKK kr 3,060
6 months
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
None
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Overview
Higher education residence permit with limited work rights (90h/month Sep–May, full-time Jun–Aug) and post-study job-seeking pathway for qualifying students.
The Higher Education residence permit is the standard pathway for non-EU/EEA students pursuing full-time degrees at recognized Danish universities. This permit is required for stays exceeding three months and ensures students maintain active status while demonstrating sufficient financial means.
Students may work up to 90 hours per month during the academic year (September–May) and full-time from June–August. The application fee is DKK 3,060 with processing of approximately 60 days. Upon degree completion, students are typically granted a post-study job-seeking period for employment transitions. Spouses have restricted work rights; dependents are allowed.
This visa is ideal for non-EU/EEA students committed to completing degrees in Denmark with supplementary work during studies and pathways to permanent employment.
Conversion Paths
Visas you can typically switch to from this status.
DenmarkDenmarkFast-Track Work Scheme
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Must be admitted to a full-time higher educational program at a state-approved Danish educational institution.
Must be able to speak and understand the language of instruction at a level that allows active participation.
Must be able to support oneself financially during the stay (documented via bank statements or proof of tuition payment).
Must be an active student; the educational institution must report any lack of progress to SIRI.
Must not be delayed in the study program by more than one year.
Must be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen (or otherwise require a residence permit).
KEY CRITERIA
Education
high_school or higher
Min. Savings
89,112 DKK
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Formal letter of admission from the Danish educational institution.
Completed ST1 application form (partially filled by the institution).
Valid passport and passport-style photos.
Proof of financial resources (e.g., bank statements) or proof of tuition fee payment.
Receipt of application fee payment.
Biometric data (facial photo and fingerprints) recorded at a Danish diplomatic mission or designated center.
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- 60-day processing time – relatively quick decision for study permits
- Renewable pathway to employment – clear conversion to Establishment Card or Fast-Track work schemes
- Spouse can accompany student – though work is restricted
- Dependents allowed – can bring family members under 18 during study
- Limited work allowed (90 hrs/month Sep-May; full-time Jun-Aug) – financially flexible
- Schengen travel rights – can travel freely within Schengen zone for 90 days per 180-day period
- Modest fee of DKK 3,060 – low application cost
- ST1 form well-documented – clear application process via recognized institution
Worth Knowing
- Work limited to 90 hrs/month Sep-May; must secure full-time role by summer to sustain
- Must maintain active student status – institution reports progress to SIRI; max 1-year delay permitted
- Spouse work is restricted – partner cannot work freely; separate permit may be needed if employed
- Cannot stay abroad for more than 6 successive months without risking permit lapse
- Open to non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens only – EU/EEA nationals do not qualify
- Requires admission to state-approved Danish educational program – online alternatives excluded
- Must demonstrate DKK 89,112 (~USD 12,000) in savings or tuition proof – financial barrier
Application Process
Secure admission and receive an offer letter from a Danish university
University initiates the application process by completing the first part of the ST1 form
Applicant completes the second part of the ST1 form online and pays the application fee
Submit supporting documentation and record biometric data (photo, fingerprints, signature) at a Danish mission or application center
Await processing and decision from the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI)
Application Forms
| ST1 Application for a residence and work permit for students (higher educational programmes). Part 1 completed by the educational institution; Part 2 completed by the applicant. | Fill online |
Related visas
More visas in Denmark
Study visas in other countries
- Student Visa
United States
- Study Permit-Exempt Student
Canada
- Residence Permit for Studies (Opiskelijan oleskelulupa)
Finland
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