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What happens if you do not pay a fine in Denmark?

Unpaid fines turn into prison days.

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Short answer

In Denmark a fine that is not paid is replaced by a prison term called forvandlingsstraf. For fines set as day-fines, one day-fine equals one day in prison, with a minimum of 2 days. For other fines the prison term is from 2 to 60 days, and in special cases up to 9 months. To avoid this you can contact Politiets Administrative Center about a payment plan or a deferral, and for offences from 2026 a fine can be reduced if your yearly income is below 198,315 kr.

Practical info

Why

  1. Forvandlingsstraf replaces the unpaid fine.
  2. You can ask for instalments or a deferral.
  3. A low income can reduce the fine from 2026.

Details

Politiets Administrative Center can be reached on 70 20 14 49, Monday to Thursday 10.00–15.00 and Friday 10.00–13.00 (2026).

Tip

Contact Politiets Administrative Center as soon as you know you cannot pay on time.

What may differ

The income limit of 198,315 kr. applies in 2026 and can change.

Common misconception

If you do not pay a Danish fine, it just disappears after a while.

What actually happens

An unpaid fine can be turned into days in prison, so it is better to ask for a payment plan.

People also ask

  • Can you pay a Danish fine in instalments?
  • Can you get a fine reduced in Denmark if you have a low income?
  • What happens if a foreign driver gets a traffic fine in Denmark?

Sources

This answer is for reference only. Laws, fines and rules can change, so check the Danish authorities before you travel.

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