How long does a Danish visa take, and when should I apply?
Apply early, 15 to 45 days.
Short answer
A decision on a Danish short-stay visa must normally be made within 15 days from when the application is registered. If the case is sent to the Danish Immigration Service for further checks, it can take up to 45 days, which is the maximum. Some nationalities need prior consultation with other Schengen countries, which can add time. You can apply at the earliest 6 months and at the latest 15 days before you travel.
Why
- The 15 days count from registration, not from your appointment.
- Complex cases go to the Danish Immigration Service.
- Peak season can mean longer waits for appointments.
Details
The decision is sent to the mission where you applied, not directly to you.
Tip
Wait to buy flight tickets until you have the visa, unless the local mission asks for a booking.
What may differ
Processing times can be longer in peak season, so check the handling times of the mission for your location.
Common misconception
A visa application can be handed in a few days before departure.
What actually happens
The latest you can apply is 15 days before departure, and the decision can take up to 45 days.
People also ask
- How do I apply for a Danish visa?
- How much does a Danish visa cost?
- How do I invite someone to Denmark?
Sources
- Danish Immigration Service: Short stay (visa), waiting for an answerChecked at:
- Embassy of Denmark in South Africa: When to lodge a visa application, processing time and feeChecked at:
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark: Where to apply for a visa or residence permitChecked at:
- Danish Immigration Service: Apply for a short term visa to private visits and tourist visitsChecked at:
This answer is for reference only. Entry and customs rules can change, so check the Danish Immigration Service, the Danish police and the Danish Customs Agency before you travel.
Planning and budgetRelated questions
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Do you pay customs on gifts sent to Denmark from outside the EU?
A gift sent by a private person from outside the EU is free of duty and VAT if it is worth EUR 45 or less.
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Can you bring medicine into Denmark?
Yes, from 1 January 2026 you may bring medicine into Denmark for personal use from any country, if it was sold legally in the country where you bought it.
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Can you bring meat and milk into Denmark from outside the EU?
No, travellers coming from a country outside the EU may not bring any meat or dairy products, which includes sausages, cheese and milk.
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Do you have to declare cash over EUR 10,000 when entering or leaving Denmark?
Yes, if you carry cash or other liquid assets worth EUR 10,000 (about 75,000 kr.) or more, you must declare them to Toldstyrelsen when you enter or leave Denmark.