The Denmark Spouse Visa is a legal pathway that allows the spouse or cohabiting partner of a Danish citizen or legal resident to join them and live in Denmark. It falls under the broader family reunification program, designed to help couples live together legally and securely.
Whether you are married or in a long-term relationship, Denmark offers a structured and supportive visa process—though with strict conditions. This guide explains what the Denmark Spouse Visa is, who can apply, how sponsorship works, required documents, costs, rights, challenges, and how to successfully navigate the system.
What is the Denmark Spouse Visa?
The Spouse Visa (part of Denmark’s Family Reunification Scheme) allows a non-EU/EEA spouse or partner to live in Denmark with their legally residing spouse. The permit is usually granted for up to 2 years, with the possibility of extension and eventual permanent residency.
Who Can Apply for a Denmark Spouse Visa?
| Applicant Must Be: | Sponsor Must Be: |
| Legally married or in a long-term cohabiting relationship | Danish citizen or legal permanent resident |
| Over 18 years of age | Over 18 years of age |
| Must pass language and integration commitments (some cases) | Must meet income, housing, and integration requirements |
Types of Eligible Relationships
- Legally married couples
- Registered partners
- Cohabiting partners (proof of living together for at least 18 months)
What is Visa Sponsorship for a Denmark Spouse Visa?
Visa sponsorship means that the resident spouse in Denmark is legally responsible for financially supporting the immigrant spouse. The sponsor must meet strict economic, housing, and integration requirements.
Sponsor Must:
- Earn a stable income (above a specific threshold set annually)
- Have sufficient housing space (e.g., max 2 persons per room)
- Not have received certain public benefits in recent years
- Pay a financial guarantee (approx. DKK 100,000, refundable in some cases)
Documents Required
| From the Sponsor | From the Applicant (Spouse) |
| Valid passport or ID | Valid passport |
| Proof of income/employment | Birth certificate |
| Proof of suitable housing (rental/ownership contract) | Marriage or cohabitation certificate (translated) |
| Tax records and salary slips | Health insurance (if not covered by public system) |
| Documentation of integration efforts (language courses) | Proof of relationship history |
| Signed sponsorship declaration | Police clearance certificate |
All foreign documents must be officially translated and legalized.
How to Apply for a Denmark Spouse Visa
Step-by-Step Process:
- Create an account on New to Denmark portal (https://www.nyidanmark.dk)
- Choose the correct application form (FA1 or FA8 – depending on if the sponsor is a citizen or resident)
- Complete the online form and pay the application fee
- Book an appointment at a Danish embassy/consulate for biometric collection
- Submit required documents
- Sponsor in Denmark must log in and submit their part of the application
- Await case processing by the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI)
Cost of Denmark Spouse Visa
| Category | Estimated Cost (DKK) |
| Application Fee | DKK 6,745 (approx. €900) |
| Financial Guarantee (held in escrow) | DKK 100,000 (approx. €13,500) |
| Translation & Legalization of Docs | DKK 1,000–3,000 |
| Biometric Registration Fee | Included in application or embassy visit |
The financial guarantee may be returned if the applicant meets integration milestones.
Rights and Benefits of a Denmark Spouse Visa
| Right or Benefit | Details |
| Residency in Denmark | Live legally with your spouse |
| Right to work | Full-time employment allowed once permit is granted |
| Access to healthcare | Public health insurance upon CPR registration |
| Education and language programs | Free Danish language and integration classes |
| Path to permanent residency | Eligible after continuous residence, language, and employment |
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
| Challenge | Solution |
| Strict housing and income requirements | Plan ahead—secure a full-time job and suitable rental before applying |
| Long processing times (up to 10 months) | Apply early and track the process via the portal |
| High financial guarantee | Save in advance or consider phased refund eligibility |
| Difficulty proving genuine relationships | Provide photos, call records, travel history, notarized statements |
| Language and integration demands | Enroll in Danish courses proactively |
What to Do If Your Application Is Denied
- File an Appeal: Submit within 8 weeks to the Immigration Appeals Board
- Correct Documentation: Fix missing documents or inaccuracies quickly
- Get Legal Assistance: Immigration lawyers can help you reapply or appeal
- Use Official Channels: Don’t try to re-enter under a tourist visa if you were rejected
Top Immigration Law Firms for Spouse Visa Assistance in Denmark
| Law Firm | Location | Specialization |
| Njord Law Firm | Copenhagen | Family reunification, visa appeals |
| Homann Law Firm | Aarhus & Copenhagen | Immigration, nationality, asylum law |
| Advokatfirmaet Dreyers | Copenhagen | Spouse visa, permanent residency |
| SIRIUS Advokater | Nationwide | Human rights & immigration |
| Immigrant Legal Advice (ILA) | Online & in-person | Multilingual family reunification support |
The Denmark Spouse Visa is a valuable legal route for couples looking to live together in one of Europe’s most socially advanced and welcoming countries. While the process includes strict sponsorship and documentation rules, those who plan ahead and follow guidelines carefully can enjoy family life in Denmark with rights to work, access services, and eventually secure permanent residency.
With the right support, documentation, and patience, your spouse visa application can be a successful and life-changing step forward.
FAQs
1. Can I work in Denmark on a Spouse Visa?
Yes, once your residence permit is issued, you will receive full employment rights.
2. How long does the spouse visa process take?
It typically takes 5–10 months, depending on the case and document quality.
3. Is a fiancé(e) eligible for a spouse visa?
No. Only married or cohabiting partners (18+ months) are eligible for family reunification.
4. Is the financial guarantee mandatory?
Yes, unless the sponsor is an EU/EEA citizen. It is required for third-country nationals.
