Can foreigners buy a summer house in Denmark?
The rule depends on where you live, not only on your passport.
Short answer
If you do not live in Denmark and have not lived there for at least 5 years in total, you generally need permission from Civilstyrelsen to buy real property, and that includes summer houses. Civilstyrelsen decides each application for one specific property. People who have lived in Denmark for 5 years or more at some point, or who have their permanent home in Denmark, can buy without permission. The rules apply to both year-round homes and secondary homes such as summer houses and holiday flats.
Why
- The 5 years do not have to be in a row.
- A secondary home means any home other than a year-round home.
- If you buy together with others, each buyer sends a separate application form.
Details
Civilstyrelsen cannot move single cases ahead of others, even when a purchase is urgent.
Tip
Apply for a pre-approval before you start looking at houses, so you know your position before you make an offer.
What may differ
Citizens of EU and EEA countries and Switzerland have easier access to year-round homes, but not to summer houses.
Common misconception
Foreigners can never own a summer house in Denmark.
What actually happens
Foreigners can own one with permission, after 5 years in Denmark, with a permanent home here, or by inheritance from close relatives.
People also ask
- Can Germans buy a summer house in Denmark?
- Can Americans buy property in Denmark?
- Can I buy a holiday flat in Denmark as a foreigner?
Sources
This answer is for reference only. Prices, rules and booking terms change, so check with the place you book and the official sources.
AccommodationRelated questions
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Where can a school class or group stay overnight in Copenhagen?
Hostels with group and school camp offers are a common option for classes visiting Copenhagen.
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Do you need a permit or registration to rent out your home to tourists in Denmark?
A private person who lets a home to holiday guests on a non-commercial basis needs no permit, as long as the yearly day limits are kept.
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How much can you earn tax-free renting out your home in Denmark in 2026?
For short-term rental of a home or room you live in (under 4 months), the tax-free allowance in 2026 is 35,100 kr.
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What are the Airbnb rules in Copenhagen?
In Copenhagen you may let your whole home for holiday purposes for up to 30 days per calendar year, or up to 70 days if the rental goes through an intermediary such as Airbnb.