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Start-up Denmark
DenmarkDenmark•Europe
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Start-up Denmark

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

1–2 months

Estimated Cost

DKK kr 3,060

Stay Duration

2 years

Renewable

Renewal

Renewable

Family

Dependents allowed

PR Pathway

Yes

Sponsor

No job offer needed

Work

Remote not required

Apply Now Official Information

Overview

Residence permit for non-EU entrepreneurs with expert-approved innovative business ideas; 2-year permit renewable with dependent qualification.

Start-up Denmark is a specialized residence permit for non-EU/EEA entrepreneurs with innovative, scalable business ideas. The Danish Business Authority's expert panel evaluates applications based on business viability, growth potential, and contribution to the Danish economy. Approximately 75 permits are issued annually for approved applicants.

The permit lasts two years and is renewable, with DKK 3,060 application fees. Dependents (spouse, registered partner, children under 18) may accompany the applicant with unrestricted work rights for spouses. Processing typically takes one month. Entrepreneurs can eventually transition toward permanent residency if the business remains successful.

This visa is ideal for startup founders and entrepreneurs launching scalable tech or advanced services ventures in Denmark with family support.

Stay & Extensions

Initial grant2 years

Annual Cap & Quota

75 permits per year

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
Processing3–4 months
View Visa Details
Fast-Track Work Scheme
Denmark flagDenmark

Fast-Track Work Scheme

ValidityVaries (Depends on employment contract length)
Processing1 month
View Visa Details

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Business idea must be approved by the Danish Business Authority's panel of experts.

The business must be innovative, scalable, and have potential for growth in the Danish economy.

The applicant must play an active role in the daily management and operation of the business.

Must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support oneself (and family, if applicable) for the first year.

The business must be an active company with real activities (holding companies are generally non-qualifying).

Traditional businesses like retail stores, restaurants, or simple import/export firms are generally non-qualifying.

KEY CRITERIA

Min. Savings

153,240 DKK

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Documentation of paid application fee.

Copy of all pages of a valid passport.

Approval letter from the Danish Business Authority's expert panel.

Documentation of sufficient funds for the first year of stay.

Documentation of company ownership.

Completed application form (SD1).

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

  • No job offer required — launch your own innovative, scalable business
  • Renewable 2-year permit with PR pathway to permanent residency
  • Spouse and children under 18 can accompany as dependents
  • Spouse can work without restrictions in Denmark
  • Processing completed within 30–60 days from application
  • Modest application fee of only DKK 3,060
  • 75 permits allocated annually ensures competitive but achievable selection odds

Worth Knowing

  • Expert panel must approve your business plan before visa application
  • Requires DKK 153,240 (~USD 20,500) in financial reserves for first year
  • Limited to innovative, scalable ventures — no passive investment, retail, restaurants, or traditional import/export
  • Business must operate actively in Denmark with your daily, hands-on involvement required

Application Forms

Go to application portal
SD1Fill online

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