PhD Student Residence Permit
Denmark
Last updated: December 23, 2025
3-5 years
$410
1-3 months
Medium
About this Visa
This permit lets you study a PhD in Denmark and work at your university. You can work full-time at your university while studying and automatically get 3 years to find a job after graduation. The permit is open to students from all countries. You can bring your spouse and children with you to Denmark. This is a straightforward visa with a 97% approval rate. Most applications are approved within 1 month if you have the right documents, a university acceptance letter, and proof of financial support.
Key Benefits
- Work full-time at your university
- Automatic 3-year job-seeking permit after graduation
- Work 20 hours/week during semesters; full-time in summer
- Free emergency healthcare; full healthcare access after registration
- Bring spouse, partner, and children under 18
- Study years count toward permanent residence eligibility
- Clear pathway to permanent residence after 8 years and citizenship after 9-10 years
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Accepted to PhD program at Danish university
- Bachelor's degree minimum (Master's usually required)
- No health exam required
- No criminal background check required upfront
- Danish language ability required if studying in Danish
- Must remain enrolled and actively studying
- Must have valid passport
Financial Requirement
If paid by university: none required. If not paid: DKK 7,086/month (€950/$1,120 USD), shown for maximum 12 months. Family members: DKK 8,231/month additional per person.
Documents
- University acceptance letterAdmission document from Danish university
- Passport copyAll pages
- Proof of financial supportBank statement or employment contract
- Employment contractIf paid by university, job offer or employment contract
- Original passportShown in person for identification
- Biometric dataFingerprints and photograph taken at office
- Certified translationsFor documents not in English, Danish, German, Norwegian, or Swedish
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.