Denmark Startup Visa
Move your startup to a global leader in sustainability, design and technology. Migrate Way guides non-EU founders through the Start-up Denmark programme, from the expert panel assessment to your residence and work permit.
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For Founders of Innovative, High-Growth Companies
Start-up Denmark is a scheme for non-EU founders who want to build an innovative, scalable company in Denmark. Your business plan is first assessed by an expert panel appointed by the Danish Business Authority, and only then do you apply for the residence and work permit.
It is a selective route, with a limited number of permits each year, so a clear, ambitious and well-prepared plan is essential.
Why Launch Your Startup in Denmark?
A transparent route into one of the world’s most advanced and trusted economies.
A Transparent Assessment
The expert panel scores your plan on published criteria, so you know what is expected before you apply.
A Two-Year First Permit
Successful applicants can receive a residence and work permit of up to two years, with extensions of up to three years at a time.
Family Inclusion
Your spouse and children can generally join you, and your spouse is usually allowed to work in Denmark.
No Fixed Investment
There is no required capital for the business, though you must show personal funds and a convincing plan.
A Leader in Innovation
Denmark is strong in green technology, health, design and software, with a supportive start-up environment.
EU and Nordic Access
Operate from Denmark and reach the EU single market and the wider Nordic region.
Do You Qualify? Key Requirements
These are the core conditions of the Start-up Denmark scheme.
Expert Panel Approval
Your business plan must be approved by the expert panel, which scores innovation, scalability, team and the plan’s quality. Approval comes before the permit application.
A Validated Concept
Applications based only on an idea, without evidence that the concept is validated and ready to be built, are not accepted.
Personal Funds
Funds to support yourself in Denmark, reported at around DKK 153,000 in 2026, which is roughly €20,500.
An Active Founder Role
You must own part of the company and play an active role in running it.
A Small Founding Team
A start-up can be founded by up to three non-EU founders submitting a joint business plan.
Valid Passport and Documents
A valid passport and the supporting documents requested by the Danish authorities.
Fees, Timeline and Extensions
The scheme has two stages, and each one has its own timeline and costs.
- The expert panel assessment usually takes up to around six weeks
- The immigration agency then typically decides the permit in about two months
- The 2026 permit fee is around DKK 3,060, and fees can change
- The first permit is up to two years, and each extension can be up to three years
- Before each extension, the panel re-evaluates your business, and you must still be actively running it
How It Works
Five clear stages, with Migrate Way beside you at every one.
Eligibility Assessment
We test your idea against the panel’s criteria and tell you honestly whether it is ready.
Expert Panel Application
We prepare and submit your business plan to the expert panel, with a clear presentation of your product, market and team.
Residence Permit Application
After approval, we prepare your application to the immigration agency, with all documents and family members’ applications.
Company Formation
We guide you through registering your Danish company and meeting the first regulatory steps.
Relocation and Settlement
We help with registration, housing and the practical steps of moving your family to Denmark.
What We Handle for You
Startup immigration is detailed and unforgiving. We take the guesswork out of it.
Eligibility Assessment
An honest view of your plan before you spend money on fees.
Business Plan Support
Guidance on a plan that scores well with the panel.
Company Setup Guidance
Coordination of registration and early compliance.
Document Checklist
A tailored list of documents for you and your family.
Pre-Submission Review
A final check of your complete file to catch errors that cause delays.
Extension Planning
Early preparation for your panel review at renewal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to the questions we hear most about the Denmark startup visa.
Can I apply at the idea stage without an MVP?
No. Applications based only on an idea are not accepted. The expert panel looks for a validated business concept with a clear product direction and evidence that it is ready to be built.
How much money must be shown in a bank account after approval?
You must show personal funds to support yourself, which are reported at around DKK 153,000 in 2026, or roughly €20,500. The amount is updated, so we confirm the current figure before you apply.
How long is the residence permit granted and how long can it be extended?
The first permit can be granted for up to two years, and extensions can be granted for up to three years at a time. The expert panel re-evaluates your business before each extension.
Can my family join me?
Yes. Your spouse and children can generally join you, and your spouse is usually permitted to work. Each family member needs biometrics and supporting documents.
Is there a limit on the number of permits?
Reports indicate that only a limited number of permits, reported as around 75 per year, are issued under the scheme, which is why a strong application matters.
Does the scheme lead to permanent residence?
Danish permanent residence has strict rules, commonly requiring about eight years of residence plus additional conditions such as language and employment, though some can shorten this. It is not automatic, and we explain the long-term picture.
Do you guarantee approval?
No one can. The final decision rests with the expert panel and the Danish authorities. What we do is make sure your application is complete, accurate and well prepared, which gives you the strongest possible chance.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Immigration rules, fees and funding requirements change, so details should always be confirmed before you apply. Photos via Unsplash: Evan Lee and Febiyan.
Ready to Launch Your Startup in Denmark?
Tell us about your business and your plans, and we will let you know whether you are ready to apply and what your next steps should be.