Denmark•EuropeSpecial Individual Qualifications Scheme
At a Glance
2–3 months
DKK kr 8,685
1 year
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
Yes
Sponsor
Job offer required
Work
Remote not required
Overview
Residence permit for specialized talent—artists, athletes, coaches—with unique qualifications; initial 1-year grants renewable with PR pathway.
The Special Individual Qualifications Scheme provides a residence and work permit for professionals with rare, highly specialized skills unavailable in the local market—athletes, artists, specialized chefs, and similar specialists. Applicants require a job offer from a Danish employer and documented unique qualifications, with salary meeting Danish standards.
The permit typically lasts one year and is renewable for multiple extensions, with each grant potentially lasting up to three years. Combined SIRI processing and embassy fees total DKK 8,685, excluding VFS service fees. Processing takes 1–3 months. Dependents (spouse and children under 18) may accompany. The permit leads toward permanent residence.
This visa is ideal for international athletes, performers, specialized chefs, and cultural professionals with unique expertise seeking recognized employment in Denmark.
Cost Breakdown
Stay & Extensions
| Initial grant | 1 year |
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Unique personal qualifications
Employment contract or job offer
Salary and terms corresponding to Danish standards
Salary paid into a Danish bank account within 180 days of entry
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Receipt of paid SIRI fee
Copy of all pages of passport
Employment contract or job offer
Documentation of education and work experience
Documentation of special individual qualifications
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Minimum 60 days processing; typically resolves within 2 months with complete documentation
- Initial 1-year permit renewable up to 3 years after 4 years; scalable tenure for proven specialists
- Renewable permit with direct pathway to permanent residency upon consistent performance
- Spouse and dependent children (under 18) qualifying; full family reunification support provided
- Unlimited sideline employment allowed for performers, athletes, and specialized talent
- Employer-led application streamlines paperwork; restricted role reduces labor market competition
- Unique qualification requirement creates competitive advantage in specialized sectors
- Dual intent permitted — plan permanent settlement while building career in Denmark
Worth Knowing
- Initial grant typically 1 year; must renew and continuously demonstrate ongoing specialized value
- Processing requires 2 months minimum; can extend to 3 months if additional documentation needed
- Employment strictly tied to single employer and specific role; no cross-employer flexibility
- Comprehensive documentation of unique qualifications required at application and renewal
- Salary must meet Danish standards and be deposited to Danish bank account within 180 days of entry
- Requires proof of unique personal qualifications not readily available in Danish labor market
- Employment confined to specified job only; sideline work allowed only for performers and athletes
- Visa strictly limited to contracted role; career changes require new application and requalification
Application Process
Create Case Order ID and pay SIRI fee
Pay MFA Embassy fee
Employer completes Part 1 of AR1
Applicant completes Part 2 of AR1
Submit biometrics within 14 days
Receive decision
Application Forms
| AR1/AR6 Online | Fill online |
Related visas
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- Special Occupation Visa (E-7)
South Korea
- Employment Second Preference - Advanced Degree
United States
- Stay and Work Permit for Trainees
Croatia
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