Denmark’s Startup Visa: All You Need To Know

The Denmark startup visa or Startup Denmark program is designed to help talented entrepreneurs from outside the EU turn their ideas into reality. This program provides a pathway to build and grow high-potential businesses in Denmark, with support that includes funding opportunities and expert advice. 

Denmark is an excellent place to start a business. It’s known for its advanced digital infrastructure, easy access to the European market, and strong support for innovation. Entrepreneurs from around the world are drawn to Denmark for its business-friendly environment and global connections.

What is the Denmark Startup Visa?

The Startup Visa Denmark is a visa scheme that allows non-EU entrepreneurs to move to Denmark and start a business. The program focuses on helping innovative and high-growth businesses succeed in Denmark’s supportive startup environment.

To apply, entrepreneurs must have a scalable and innovative business idea. It’s not enough to open a small shop or restaurant—the program is aimed at ideas that can grow and create jobs in Denmark.

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Eligibility Criteria for Foreign Entrepreneurs

To qualify for the Denmark Startup Visa, applicants need to meet these requirements:

• Be a non-EU, non-EEA, or non-Swiss citizen.
• Submit a business plan that aligns with the program’s criteria.
• Demonstrate self-sufficiency by providing financial stability for at least one year.

High-Growth, Innovative Business Requirement

The program prioritizes businesses with:

• Unique and innovative ideas.
• Potential for significant growth and scalability.
• Clear market potential and a strong business strategy.

Denmark Startup Visa Requirements & Eligibilities

General Requirements

To apply for the Denmark Startup Visa, you must:

• Be a citizen of a non-EU, non-EEA, or non-Swiss country.
• Present a business plan that meets the program’s standards for innovation and growth. This plan must show how your business idea is unique and capable of scaling.
• Have a valid passport and be eligible for entry into Denmark.

Financial Requirements

Applicants need to demonstrate financial self-sufficiency during their first year in Denmark. The specific requirements (2024 level) are:

• Single applicant: DKK 147,912 (approximately €19,800)
• Applicant with spouse: DKK 295,824 (approximately €39,700)
• Applicant with spouse and children: DKK 344,496 (approximately €46,200)
• Applicant with children only: DKK 196,584 (approximately €26,400)
• Proof of financial resources can include bank statements or other documentation showing available funds.

These requirements ensure that you can support yourself and any dependents while establishing your business without relying on Danish welfare programs.

Business Plan Evaluation Criteria

Your business plan is the heart of your application and must demonstrate:

• Innovation and uniqueness: Is your idea new and groundbreaking? Does it provide a solution to an existing problem in the market?
• Market potential: Does your business have the ability to attract a large customer base and compete effectively?
• Scalability: Can your business grow significantly, both in terms of revenue and operational capacity?
• Team skills: Do you and your team possess the expertise and resources to make the idea successful?
• Viability and sustainability: Is your business model sustainable and capable of long-term success?

The application will be reviewed by an expert panel appointed by the Danish Business Authority. Their decision will be based on whether your business idea aligns with the program’s objectives and has the potential to contribute to Denmark’s economy and innovation ecosystem.

Denmark Startup Visa Application Process

Applying for the Startup Visa Denamrk involves 3 key steps. Here, we outline everything you need to know to successfully navigate the process.

👣 Step 1: Preparing Your Application

The first step is to gather and organize all necessary documents and information. Here’s what you need:

Develop a Comprehensive Business Plan

• Your business plan must align with Startup Denmark’s criteria, emphasizing innovation, scalability, and market potential.
• Include detailed financial projections, market analysis, and a clear roadmap for implementation.

Provide Proof of Financial Resources

• Demonstrate financial self-sufficiency for at least one year. (Mentioned above)
• Submit bank statements or other documentation showing you meet these requirements.

Gather Supporting Documentation

• A valid passport.
• Certifications or qualifications relevant to your business.
• Additional documents are required for your application.

👣 Step 2: Submitting Your Business Plan

After preparing your documents, the next step is to submit your business plan to the Startup Denmark expert panel.

Online Submission

• Visit the Startup Denmark portal and fill out the online application form.
• Upload your business plan and all required documents.

Evaluation Process

• The expert panel reviews submissions based on innovation, scalability, and market potential.
• The process typically takes several weeks, so submit your application early to avoid delays.

Approval Notification

• Approved applicants receive an approval letter to include with their work and residence permit application.
• If not approved, you will receive feedback to help improve your application.

👣 Step 3: Applying for Work and Residence Permit

Once your business idea is approved, the final step is to apply for a combined work and residence permit through the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI).

Application Submission

• Complete the application form available on SIRI’s website.
• Upload your approval letter and other supporting documents, including a valid passport and proof of financial resources.

Processing Fee

• Pay the processing fee, currently DKK 2,490 as of 2024. Keep the receipt as proof of payment.

Biometric Data Submission

• Visit a SIRI office or Danish embassy to provide biometric data, such as fingerprints and a photo. This step is mandatory to complete your application.

Waiting Period

• Processing times vary by country but usually take at least one month. You can track your application status online.

Denmark Startup Visa: Key Challenges and Tips for Success

If you’re considering starting a business in Denmark, there are a few limitations and challenges to keep in mind.

Limitations and Challenges

1. Annual Visa Cap: Denmark has a strict annual cap on the number of startup visas issued. Only 75 Denmark startup visa permits are granted each year, making it a competitive process.
2. Team: The scheme can be used by both individuals and teams of up to 3 people.
3. Duration of Permit: You can be granted a residence and work permit for a period of up to 2 years. It is possible to extend your permit for up to 3 years at a time.
4. Exclusions for Certain Businesses: Not all businesses qualify for the startup visa. For example, small-scale businesses like restaurants or retail stores are typically excluded from the program. If your business idea falls under these categories, you’ll need to explore other visa options.
   

Tips for Success

To increase your chances of approval for the Denmark startup entrepreneur visa, consider these tips:

• Craft a Strong Business Plan: Ensure your business plan is innovative, scalable, and aligned with Denmark’s startup ecosystem. The Danish authorities look for companies with potential for growth and international impact.
  
• Use Danish Business Hubs: Seek support and guidance from local Danish Business Hubs. They can assist with preparation, networking, and a clearer understanding of the visa requirements.
  
• Ensure Proper Documentation: Make sure all documents are in an approved language, such as English, Danish, or German. If necessary, provide certified translations for any documents not in these languages.

Post-Visa Approval: Launching Your Startup in Denmark

After your Denmark startup visa is approved and you receive your residence and work permit, you’re ready to launch your business in Denmark. The country offers a dynamic and supportive startup ecosystem designed to help entrepreneurs grow both locally and internationally.

Setting Up a Business in Denmark

Setting up a business in Denmark is straightforward, but understanding the legal and practical steps is essential. First, ensure you’re fully approved by Startup Denmark, which includes receiving your Denmark startup entrepreneur visa and a Danish CPR number (personal registration number). This number is essential for business registration.

You’ll need to decide on your business type and apply for a CVR number, which is your official business registration number, via the digital portal virk.dk. Make sure you also register for MitID, a secure login system used to access government services, including business registration.

Support Systems for Entrepreneurs

Denmark has a strong support network for entrepreneurs, starting with the Danish Business Hubs. These hubs are your gateway to valuable public and private initiatives that can help your startup thrive. 

There are 6 hubs across Denmark, each offering free, professional guidance tailored to your business needs. The hubs can assist with everything from business development to finding funding opportunities.

Additionally, Denmark offers several funding options, such as the Danish Growth Fund and Innovation Fund Denmark. These public funding programs are designed to support startups with significant growth potential. Reaching out to your local Business Hub can help you navigate the funding options best suited to your business.

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Role of Launchroad in The Seccess of Your Startup Visa

LaunchRoad is your trusted partner for starting a business abroad. We guide you in choosing the right country, understanding visa requirements, and getting your startup off the ground. As an experienced startup visa consultant, we offer expert startup visa consultation to help you navigate the complexities of international expansion. Our team provides the support, mentorship, and resources you need to succeed in the global market.

Resources:

• https://startupdenmark.info
• https://danishbusinessauthority.dk/start-denmark
• https://www.nyidanmark.dk/de-DE/You-want-to-apply/Work/Start-up-Denmark