Denmark Tightens Student Visa Rules to Prevent Employment Fraud

Denmark has introduced stricter student visa regulations for non-EU/EEA nationals, aiming to curb the misuse of study permits as a gateway to the labour market. The new policies, announced by the Danish Minister of Immigration and Integration, Kaare Dybvad Bek, are designed to ensure that international students prioritise education rather than using student visas as a means to secure low-wage jobs.

Key Policy Changes

The Danish government has identified an increasing number of international students—particularly from Nepal—enrolling in Danish institutions primarily to gain work rights. Many of these students engage in low-wage jobs, such as hotel and restaurant cleaning, instead of focusing on their studies.

To address this, Denmark has introduced the following changes:

• No More Automatic Work Rights – Non-EU/EEA students will no longer have automatic work rights linked to their residence permits.
• Restricted Work Permits for Partners – Spouses or partners of international students will no longer be eligible for a work permit in Denmark.
• Stronger Screening Process – The Danish Immigration Service will implement stricter assessments to verify that applicants are genuinely pursuing education rather than seeking employment.

These measures are aimed at protecting the integrity of Denmark’s education system while preventing labour market exploitation and wage suppression.

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Study Visa Options Still Available for 2025

Despite these new restrictions, Denmark remains open to international students through several visa categories. Here’s an overview of the available study permits:

1. Residence Permit for Higher Education

• Duration: Covers the full study programme (up to 3–4 years for a bachelor’s, 2 years for a master’s).
• Eligibility:
  • Admission to a recognised Danish higher education institution.
  • Proof of financial means (approximately DKK 6,397 per month).
  • Health insurance coverage.
• Fee: DKK 1,890 (approximately EUR 250).
• Work Rights: 20 hours per week during the academic term; full-time in June, July, and August.

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2. Residence Permit for Preparatory Courses

• Duration: Up to 2 years.
• Eligibility:
  • Enrollment in a preparatory course leading to university admission.
  • Proof of financial means and health insurance.
• Fee: DKK 1,890.
• Work Rights: 20 hours per week.

3. PhD Study Permit

• Duration: Valid for the full duration of the PhD programme.
• Eligibility:
  • Acceptance into a PhD programme at a Danish university.
  • Proof of financial means and health insurance.
• Fee: DKK 1,890.
• Work Rights: Unlimited if the PhD is classified as employment; otherwise, 20 hours per week.

Impact on International Students

These policy changes could affect students who rely on part-time work to support themselves. However, those genuinely seeking higher education in Denmark can still benefit from its high-quality institutions and research opportunities.

For more details, visit:

• New Danish Immigration Rules
• Study in Denmark