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Denmark · Work visa

Researcher Permit

Processing
About 1 month
Cost
From DKK 3,060
Validity
Up to 4 years

Permit for researchers employed by or invited to Danish universities and research institutions. Employed researchers can use the Fast-Track researcher track; unpaid guest researchers have a separate permit.

Requirements

  • Employment or invitation as a researcher at a Danish research institution or company
  • Position must involve actual research activity (PhD-level roles qualify)
  • Pay and terms corresponding to Danish standards where employed in Denmark
  • Guest researchers: documentation of financing during the stay

Time and cost

Processing time
About 1 month (faster via Fast-Track certified institutions)
Validity
Duration of the research engagement, up to 4 years
Cost

From DKK 3,060

Required

  • DKK 3,060 application fee (2026)
Path to residency
Counts toward permanent residence after 8 years (or 4 with supplementary criteria)

Documents

  • Valid passport

    Copy of all pages

  • Employment contract or hosting agreement

    From the Danish research institution

  • Documentation of research role

    Job description or invitation confirming research content

  • PhD or academic credentials (if it applies)

    Supporting the research position

Tips

  • This route has no salary threshold
  • Eligible researchers can opt into the researcher tax scheme: flat ~32.84% tax for up to 7 years (2026 salary floor DKK 65,400/month)
  • Most Danish universities are Fast-Track certified, letting you start on submission