Post-Study Work in Denmark

Denmark has become an increasingly attractive destination for international students, thanks to its high-quality education system, family-friendly immigration policies, and strong job market. The country offers full-time work rights for spouses of students, a high minimum wage (up to €20/hour), and consistently ranks among the happiest countries in the world.

For students who wish to remain in Denmark after completing their studies, the Establishment Card is a key pathway to stay and work in the country legally. Here’s everything you need to know about how it works, who is eligible, and how to apply.

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1. Who Can Apply for an Establishment Card?

You may apply for an Establishment Card if you have completed a:

• Danish professional bachelor’s

• Bachelor’s

• Master’s

• PhD degree

The program must be from a publicly accredited institution in Denmark. You cannot apply if your degree was obtained from a non-state-recognized institution, even if evaluated by the Danish Evaluation Institute (EVA).

You can also apply for a new Establishment Card after completing each eligible degree. For example, if you had one after your bachelor’s and are now completing a master’s, you can apply again.

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2. Eligibility Requirements

• Completion of Danish Higher Education
  You must present a diploma or, if not available, official documentation from the university confirming the completion of the program.

• Apply Within One Year
  You must submit your application within 12 months of graduation and be legally residing in Denmark at the time of application.

• Financial Self-Sufficiency
  You must prove you can support yourself (and your family, if applicable). Acceptable documentation includes bank statements or salary slips.

  Minimum required funds:

  • DKK 90,492 – Alone

  • DKK 180,984 – With spouse

  • DKK 268,812 – With spouse and children

  • DKK 178,320 – With children only

  You are not allowed to receive public benefits (e.g., dimittenddagpenge).

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3. Rights with an Establishment Card

• Residence
  You can live in Denmark for the duration of your permit and stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. You must maintain a registered address in Denmark and avoid stays abroad longer than 6 consecutive months.

• Employment
  You can work in any job or start your own business without needing an additional work permit. If you had a student residence permit, you can begin working as soon as you apply for the Establishment Card.

• Public Benefits
  You are not entitled to certain public benefits. Receiving these may result in your residence permit being revoked.

• Danish Language Lessons
  You are entitled to partly self-funded Danish classes if you are over 18 and registered in the Danish National Register.

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4. Length of Stay

The Establishment Card grants a stay of up to 2 years, with the option to extend for 1 additional year if you’re working in a field related to your degree. However, your residence permit will expire 3 months before your passport does—renew your passport early if needed to maximize your stay.

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5. Can Your Family Join You?

Yes. Your spouse, registered or cohabiting partner, and children under 18 can apply for residence permits to join you in Denmark. If they’re already in Denmark, they must also apply to extend their stay.

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6. How to Apply for an Establishment Card

You must apply through the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI) while legally residing in Denmark.

Step-by-Step Application Guide:

1. Create a Case Order ID
   Required for fee payment and tracking your application.

2. Pay the Application Fee
   Fees change annually (January 1st), so ensure payment and application fall within the same calendar year.

3. Gather Required Documents

   • Proof of fee payment

   • Copy of all passport pages

   • Graduation certificate

   • Proof of financial means

4. Fill the EK1 Application Form
   Complete the online form accurately.

5. Submit Biometrics
   You must provide fingerprints and a photo at an approved location. The data will be embedded in your residence card.

6. Wait for a Decision
   SIRI will review your application and may request additional documents.

The Establishment Card is a valuable opportunity for graduates to transition from student life to professional employment in Denmark. If you’re considering studying in Denmark, consult experienced advisors like Europe Study, who can assist you from university applications to post-study work pathways.