Denmark granted family reunification to just 38% of applicants from non-EU countries in 2023. That statistic reflects a system designed for scrutiny, not speed. If you hold a Danish residence permit and want your spouse or child to join you, understanding the process is essential—not optional.
The rules are strict, the paperwork precise, and the timeline unpredictable. But with clear steps, accurate documentation, and awareness of common pitfalls, many succeed. This guide cuts through the bureaucracy with actionable advice grounded in current practice.
Meet the Core Requirements First
Before filing anything, confirm you meet Denmark’s three non-negotiable conditions for family reunification:
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- You must hold a valid residence permit that allows family reunification—typically work, study (PhD level only), or refugee status. Family reunification is not permitted for short-term permits or those based on temporary protection.
- Your spouse must be at least 24 years old. This “24-year rule” aims to prevent forced marriages. Both partners must meet this age threshold.
- You must pass the “attachment requirement.” You must prove stronger ties to Denmark than to any other country. This often means living in Denmark for most of the past 12 months and having no significant ongoing residence elsewhere.
Failure on any of these points leads to automatic rejection. Double-check eligibility using the official SIRI checklist.
Prepare Documents with Precision
Danish immigration officers reject applications over minor errors—a missing signature, an unverified translation, or an expired passport copy. Avoid this by preparing documents exactly as required.
Key documents include:
- A completed Family Reunification Application Form (FC1), available on SIRI’s website.
- Proof of legal marriage (or registered partnership). Foreign marriages require an apostille or legalization under the Hague Convention.
- Passport copies for both applicant and sponsor, valid for at least three months beyond the intended stay.
- Proof of cohabitation intent, such as a signed lease in Denmark showing space for the new resident (minimum 20 m² per adult).
- Financial documentation: Bank statements showing at least DKK 71,500 (2025 threshold) in savings OR a full-time employment contract with a Danish employer like Novo Nordisk or Maersk paying at least DKK 24,000 monthly.
All non-Danish or non-English documents must carry certified translations. Use translators approved by the Danish Ministry of Justice—find them via the Authorized Translators Register.
Submit, Track, and Follow Up
Submit your application online via the SIRI e-application portal. Paper applications are no longer accepted for most cases. Pay the fee (DKK 7,920 as of 2025) by credit card during submission.
After submission:
- You’ll receive a case number within 48 hours.
- Track progress via the SIRI Case Order System.
- Processing typically takes 6–12 months. In 2024, the average was 274 days for spouse applications from outside the EU.
If SIRI requests additional information, respond within 14 days. Delays here often cause rejections. Set email alerts for SIRI communications and check spam folders daily.
Plan for Arrival and Integration
Once approved, your family member gets a temporary residence card valid for up to two years. They must enter Denmark within three months of visa issuance.
Upon arrival:
- Register with the Civil Registration System (CPR) at your local Borgerservice within five days.
- Enroll in Introductory Danish Language Course (Start Danish) through your municipality—free for family reunification residents.
- Apply for a work permit if not already included, spouses of work-permit holders can work immediately without extra approval.
Integration support varies by city. Copenhagen offers free childcare orientation through CFB, while Aarhus provides housing assistance via Aarhus Kommune Housing Portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum income requirement for family reunification in Denmark?
You must show either DKK 71,500 in savings or a stable income of at least DKK 24,000 per month before tax. The amount is adjusted annually by SIRI and published each January.
Can I apply for family reunification if I’m on a student visa?
Only PhD students with a residence permit under the Researcher Scheme qualify. Bachelor’s and master’s students cannot sponsor family members.
How long does the spouse visa process take?
Most applications from outside the EU take 6–12 months. In 2024, SIRI reported an average processing time of 274 days for spouse cases.
Do children need to meet the 24-year rule?
No. The 24-year rule applies only to spouses and partners. Children under 18 can join parents regardless of age, provided the parent meets attachment and financial requirements.
Is health insurance required before arrival?
No. Once your family member registers with CPR, they gain access to Denmark’s public healthcare system. No private insurance is needed for the visa application.
Can my spouse work immediately after arrival?
Yes. Spouses of work-permit holders receive full work rights upon registration. They do not need a separate work permit.
What happens if my application is rejected?
You can appeal within 2 weeks to the Danish Immigration Appeals Board (UNE). Include new evidence or correct prior errors. In 2023, UNE overturned 22% of initial rejections.