Denmark flag europe Updated January 20, 2026

Work Remotely from Denmark: Complete Guide

Everything about working remotely from Denmark for US/EU companies. Visa options, tax implications, Copenhagen and Aarhus guide, and timezone overlap for digital nomads.

Updated January 20, 2026 • Verified current for 2026

Yes, you can work remotely from Denmark. Denmark launched a specific Digital Nomad Visa in 2024, allowing remote workers to stay for up to 6 months. Denmark consistently ranks among the world’s happiest countries, offers exceptional work-life balance (hygge culture), a thriving tech scene in Copenhagen, bicycle-friendly cities, excellent English proficiency, and strong social trust. However, it’s one of the world’s most expensive countries with the highest taxes globally, making it best suited for well-compensated remote workers.

Key Facts

Visa Options

Denmark offers several pathways for remote workers, including a new digital nomad scheme:

Digital Nomad Visa (Launched 2024)

  • Valid for up to 6 months (non-renewable in same year)
  • For remote workers employed by foreign companies or self-employed
  • Requirements: minimum income DKK 35,000/month (~€4,700), proof of employment, health insurance
  • Processing time: 2-4 weeks
  • Application fee: DKK 1,480 (~€200)
  • Cannot work for Danish companies on this visa
  • Allows Schengen area travel
  • Fast-track option available for higher income earners

Work Permit (Pay Limit Scheme)

  • Valid for up to 4 years (renewable)
  • For high-earning professionals
  • Requirements: annual salary min. DKK 465,000 (~€62,000) - updated annually
  • Processing time: 30-60 days
  • Application fee: DKK 4,295 (~€575)
  • Can lead to permanent residency after 4-8 years
  • Allows family reunification

Establishment Card (Self-Employed)

  • Valid for 2 years (renewable)
  • For entrepreneurs and freelancers
  • Requirements: detailed business plan, proof of funds (min. DKK 50,000/~€6,700), relevant experience
  • Must pass points-based assessment
  • Processing time: 2-3 months
  • Application fee: DKK 4,865 (~€650)

Schengen Tourist Stay

  • 90 days within any 180-day period
  • No permit required for remote work for foreign companies
  • Cannot extend or convert to other visa types while in Denmark

EU/EEA/Nordic Citizens

  • No visa required
  • Can live and work indefinitely
  • Simple registration with local authorities (borgerservice)
  • Get CPR number (personal identification) immediately

Tax Implications

Denmark has the highest taxes in the world, but offers exceptional public services and social security:

Tax Residency

  • Become tax resident if you stay 183+ days per year
  • Or if you establish permanent home in Denmark
  • Or if you have substantial economic ties (business, employment)

Income Tax (Progressive)

  • Bottom tax: 12.09% (all taxable income)
  • Municipal tax: 23-27% (varies by municipality, avg 25%)
  • Top tax: 15% on income over DKK 568,900 (~€76,000)
  • Combined effective rate: 40-56% depending on income
  • Labour market contribution (AM-bidrag): 8% (included in calculations)

For Remote Workers

  • Tax residents pay tax on worldwide income
  • Non-residents pay tax only on Danish-source income
  • Digital Nomad Visa holders (under 6 months) typically not tax residents
  • Must maintain tax residency elsewhere to avoid Danish taxation

Social Security

  • Funded through taxes (no separate social security payment for employees)
  • Self-employed: voluntary supplementary pension contributions recommended
  • In return: free healthcare, education, generous unemployment benefits (up to 90% of salary)

Double Taxation Treaties

  • Denmark has treaties with 70+ countries (US, UK, Canada, etc.)
  • Foreign tax credits prevent double taxation
  • US citizens still file US taxes but can claim foreign tax credits

Deductions & Benefits

  • Work-related expenses (home office, equipment, internet)
  • Transport costs (over 24 km daily commute)
  • Professional literature and courses
  • Union membership fees
  • Interest on mortgage (unique in Europe - very generous)

Key Considerations

  • Among world’s highest taxes (top earners pay 56%)
  • High taxes fund comprehensive welfare state: free healthcare, education, childcare subsidies, generous parental leave (52 weeks)
  • Keep detailed records of days in Denmark
  • Register with SKAT (tax authority) if becoming resident
  • Consult Danish tax advisor for personalized guidance

Best Cities

Copenhagen (Capital)

  • Population: 640,000 (metro: 2M)
  • Best for: Tech workers, international lifestyle, culture, design
  • Highlights: Bicycle capital (62% bike to work), stunning waterfront, Nyhavn harbor, world-class food scene (multiple Michelin stars), green city
  • Coworking: Founders House, Copenhagen School of Entrepreneurship, SOHO, The HUB
  • Rent: €1,400-2,500/month (1-bedroom)
  • Internet: 100-1,000 Mbps standard
  • Community: Most international city, large expat community, English dominant in tech/startups
  • Vibe: Cosmopolitan, design-focused, bicycle culture, hygge lifestyle

Aarhus

  • Population: 280,000
  • Best for: More affordable lifestyle, students, culture
  • Highlights: Denmark’s second city, vibrant cultural scene, university town, ARoS art museum, beaches
  • Coworking: Aarhus Founders, Væksthus, SOHO Aarhus
  • Rent: €900-1,400/month (1-bedroom)
  • Vibe: Young, creative, 30-40% cheaper than Copenhagen, easier housing market

Odense

  • Population: 180,000
  • Best for: Budget-conscious nomads, Hans Christian Andersen fans
  • Highlights: Birthplace of H.C. Andersen, growing tech scene, robot cluster, bicycle-friendly
  • Rent: €800-1,200/month (1-bedroom)
  • Note: Smaller expat community but very welcoming

Aalborg (Northern Denmark)

  • Population: 120,000
  • Best for: Startup enthusiasts, affordable living
  • Highlights: Strong startup scene, Aalborg University, waterfront regeneration
  • Rent: €700-1,100/month (1-bedroom)
  • Vibe: Young, entrepreneurial, relaxed northern Denmark feel

Roskilde

  • Population: 50,000
  • Best for: Work-life balance, proximity to Copenhagen
  • Highlights: 25 minutes from Copenhagen, Viking history, UNESCO cathedral, famous music festival
  • Rent: €900-1,300/month (1-bedroom)
  • Note: Smaller town feel with big city access

Timezone Overlap

Denmark operates on Central European Time (CET), ideal for European collaboration and manageable for US East Coast.

For US Companies:

  • EST (New York): +6 hours

    • 9 AM EST = 3 PM CET
    • 5 PM EST = 11 PM CET
    • Recommended overlap: 9 AM - 2 PM EST (3 PM - 8 PM Denmark)
    • Reasonable for daily standups and meetings
    • Note: Danes value work-life balance and rarely work past 5-6 PM

  • PST (San Francisco): +9 hours

    • 9 AM PST = 6 PM CET
    • Very limited real-time collaboration window
    • Requires early mornings (6-8 AM PST) for Denmark afternoon meetings
    • Async work strongly recommended

For European Companies:

  • UK (London): +1 hour (nearly perfect)
  • CET (Germany, Netherlands, France): Same timezone (perfect)
  • Nordic countries: Same or 1 hour difference
  • Ideal for European-based remote teams

For Asian Companies:

  • Singapore: -7 hours (8 AM Singapore = 1 AM Denmark)
  • Tokyo: -8 hours
  • Limited but workable morning overlap

Best Practices:

  • Danish work culture emphasizes strict work-life boundaries (8 AM - 4 PM typical)
  • “Hygge” culture values quality of life over overwork
  • Block 9 AM - 1 PM EST for critical meetings (3 PM - 7 PM Denmark)
  • Avoid scheduling meetings after 4 PM Danish time
  • Use async tools for US West Coast collaboration: Loom, Notion, Slack
  • Leverage long summer evenings for after-work activities
  • Winter: limited daylight (7-8 hours in December) affects energy

Denmark Remote Work Checklist

  1. 1
    Determine correct visa: Digital Nomad Visa (6 months) or Work Permit for longer stays
  2. 2
    Gather documents: passport, employment contract, proof of income (DKK 35,000+/month for DNV), health insurance
  3. 3
    Apply through Danish Immigration Service (Udlændingestyrelsen) - online application
  4. 4
    Wait for processing: 2-4 weeks for Digital Nomad Visa, 30-60 days for Work Permit
  5. 5
    Receive approval and visa/residence permit
  6. 6
    Book accommodation (competitive market in Copenhagen - consider subletting initially)
  7. 7
    Upon arrival, register at local Citizen Service (Borgerservice) within 5 days
  8. 8
    Apply for CPR number (personal identification number) - essential for everything
  9. 9
    Open Danish bank account (requires CPR) - Danske Bank, Nordea, or online banks like Lunar
  10. 10
    Get Danish phone number (TDC, Telenor, 3) - often needed for services
  11. 11
    Set up NemID/MitID (digital signature system) - required for all online services
  12. 12
    Register for healthcare card (yellow health insurance card) through borger.dk
  13. 13
    Get public transport card: Rejsekort (Copenhagen) or local equivalent
  14. 14
    Purchase bicycle (essential in Denmark!) - expect to cycle everywhere
  15. 15
    Join expat communities: Internations Copenhagen, Copenhagen Expats Facebook group
  16. 16
    Download apps: Rejseplanen (transport), MobilePay (payments), Just Eat/Wolt (food)
  17. 17
    Learn basic Danish phrases (though English universally spoken)
  18. 18
    Invest in rain gear and winter clothing (wet, windy climate)
  19. 19
    Embrace hygge: cozy living, candles, social gatherings

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Denmark's Digital Nomad Visa?

Denmark launched a Digital Nomad Visa in 2024, allowing remote workers to stay for up to 6 months. Requirements: minimum income of DKK 35,000/month (~€4,700), proof of employment with foreign company or self-employment, health insurance. Processing takes 2-4 weeks, costs DKK 1,480 (~€200). You cannot work for Danish companies on this visa. It's non-renewable in the same calendar year, but you can apply again the following year.

How expensive is Denmark really?

Denmark is one of the world's most expensive countries. Budget €3,000-5,000/month in Copenhagen: rent €1,400-2,500 (1-bedroom), food €500-800 (groceries expensive, eating out very costly), transport €80-120 (or buy bicycle), coworking €250-400. A coffee costs €5-7, lunch €15-20. However, quality of life is exceptional: free healthcare, education, clean environment, safety, work-life balance. Smaller cities like Aarhus are 25-35% cheaper.

Are Danish taxes really the highest in the world?

Yes - Denmark typically ranks #1 globally for tax burden. Combined income tax can reach 56% for high earners (municipal tax ~25%, bottom tax 12%, top tax 15%, plus labour market contribution). However, taxes fund comprehensive benefits: free healthcare, education (including university), generous unemployment benefits (up to 90% salary for 2 years), subsidized childcare, 52 weeks parental leave, and excellent infrastructure. Most Danes consider it a fair trade-off. Non-residents under 183 days typically don't pay Danish taxes.

Can I survive with only English in Denmark?

Absolutely. Denmark has ~90% English proficiency - one of the highest worldwide. Everyone speaks fluent English, especially in Copenhagen and among younger generations. All official services, banks, government websites operate in English. Many companies use English as working language. However, learning Danish helps with deeper integration and is appreciated by locals. Social situations and some local services may default to Danish, but everyone switches to English when asked.

What is hygge and why does it matter?

Hygge (pronounced 'hoo-ga') is a core Danish concept meaning coziness, comfort, and togetherness. It's about creating warm atmosphere: candles, cozy spaces, quality time with friends, comfort food, and enjoying simple pleasures. It reflects Danish work-life balance philosophy: work efficiently during work hours (8-4 PM typical), then enjoy quality personal time. Understanding hygge helps integrate into Danish culture and explains why Danes rank among world's happiest despite dark winters and high taxes.

How is the weather in Denmark?

Denmark has a temperate oceanic climate - mild but often gray and rainy. Winters (Nov-Mar) are cold and wet: 0-5°C, with 7-8 hours daylight in December. Summers (Jun-Aug) are mild: 15-22°C, with very long days (17+ hours in June). Rain is frequent year-round. Wind is common (coastal location). Snow is rare but it's often gray and overcast. Best months: May-September. Winter requires mindset shift: embrace hygge, invest in good rain gear and layers. The flat landscape is perfect for cycling year-round.

Why is cycling so important in Denmark?

Cycling is fundamental to Danish culture, especially in Copenhagen where 62% of residents bike to work daily. The infrastructure is exceptional: dedicated bike lanes everywhere, traffic lights timed for cyclists, bike parking at every location. Most locals cycle year-round (even in rain/winter). Benefits: save money (no car/transport costs), stay healthy, integrate into local culture, navigate faster than cars in cities. Buy a used bike for €100-300 or rent long-term. Not cycling makes you an outsider in Denmark.

Can the Digital Nomad Visa lead to permanent residency?

No, the Digital Nomad Visa is specifically for temporary stays (6 months max) and doesn't lead to permanent residency. For longer-term plans, consider the Pay Limit Scheme (work permit for high earners, min. DKK 465,000/year) or Establishment Card (self-employed). These can lead to permanent residency after 4-8 years (depending on integration: language skills, employment, financial self-sufficiency). Denmark has strict immigration policies but clear pathways for high-skilled workers who integrate.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work remotely from Denmark for a US company?

Yes, you can work remotely from Denmark for a US company. Most remote workers use tourist visas for short stays or apply for specific work/residence visas for longer periods. You'll typically continue to be paid in USD and remain on your US employer's payroll while working abroad. Check the visa section above for specific options and durations available in Denmark.

Do I need a visa to work remotely from Denmark?

It depends on your nationality and intended length of stay. Many nationalities can enter Denmark visa-free for tourism (usually 30-90 days), during which remote work for foreign companies is generally tolerated. For longer stays, you'll need a specific visa such as a digital nomad visa, work visa, or residence permit. Check the requirements specific to your passport and planned duration of stay.

What's the cost of living for remote workers in Denmark?

The cost of living in Denmark is expensive, with monthly budgets of $4,000-6,000+ being typical for a comfortable lifestyle including rent, food, and coworking space. Major cities tend to be more expensive than smaller towns or rural areas. Your actual budget will depend on your lifestyle choices, accommodation preferences, and which city you choose to live in.

Does Denmark have a digital nomad visa?

Check the visa section above for Denmark's specific visa options. Many countries now offer dedicated digital nomad visas, remote work visas, or freelance visas designed for location-independent workers. Even without a specific digital nomad visa, there are often alternative visa categories that allow remote work, such as temporary residence permits or self-employment visas.

What are the best cities for remote work in Denmark?

The best cities for remote workers in Denmark typically offer a combination of reliable high-speed internet, coworking spaces, affordable cost of living, and quality of life. Check the cities section above for specific recommendations, including internet speeds, cost indexes, and the number of coworking spaces in each location. Consider factors like timezone overlap with your team, climate preferences, and local amenities when choosing.

Working Remotely from Denmark?

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