Startup Denmark FAQ - Startup Visa Denmark

Question 1

What is Startup Denmark?

Accepted Answer

Startup Denmark is a Danish immigration scheme that allows non-EU/EEA entrepreneurs to apply for a residence permit in Denmark based on an innovative and scalable business idea. The scheme is administered by the Danish Business Authority, which evaluates business concepts, and SIRI (the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration), which handles the residence permit. It is designed to attract talented international entrepreneurs who want to build innovative companies in Denmark.

Question 2

Who administers the Startup Denmark scheme?

Accepted Answer

The Startup Denmark scheme is administered by two Danish government agencies: the Danish Business Authority (Erhvervsstyrelsen), which evaluates the business concept and innovation potential, and SIRI (Styrelsen for International Rekruttering og Integration), which handles the residence permit application. Startup Visa Denmark is an independent private consulting service and is not affiliated with either agency.

Question 3

Is Startup Denmark the same as a startup visa?

Accepted Answer

Startup Denmark is Denmark's primary pathway for non-EU/EEA entrepreneurs to obtain a residence permit based on a startup business idea. It is commonly referred to as a startup visa, though the formal name of the scheme is Startup Denmark. The residence permit is issued for the purpose of establishing and running an innovative business in Denmark.

Question 4

Who can apply for Startup Denmark?

Accepted Answer

Non-EU/EEA nationals with an innovative startup idea can apply. Applicants must demonstrate that their business concept is innovative, scalable, and has the potential to contribute to the Danish economy. You must also demonstrate that you have the qualifications and experience to execute the business idea. EU/EEA citizens do not need to apply through this scheme as they have the right to live and work in Denmark.

Question 5

What types of businesses qualify for Startup Denmark?

Accepted Answer

The scheme is designed for innovative and scalable businesses - technology startups, digital platforms, sustainability ventures, deep tech companies, and other businesses with clear growth potential. The Danish Business Authority looks for businesses that are innovative (not just a copy of an existing concept), scalable (able to grow beyond a local market), and have the potential to create value and employment in Denmark. Traditional service businesses, freelance work, or businesses without a clear innovative element are unlikely to qualify.

Question 6

Does my business need to be innovative?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Innovation is a central requirement of the Startup Denmark scheme. The Danish Business Authority evaluates whether your business concept introduces something new - a new product, service, technology, business model, or approach to an existing market. The innovation does not need to be groundbreaking, but it must be clearly articulated and credible. We help founders understand what innovation means in this context and how to present it effectively.

Question 7

Can a team apply together?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Multiple co-founders can apply for Startup Denmark based on the same business idea. Each co-founder must submit their own application, but the applications can reference the same business concept. Each applicant is evaluated individually on their qualifications and their role in the business.

Question 8

Do I need to establish a company in Denmark before applying?

Accepted Answer

No. You do not need to have a registered company in Denmark before applying for Startup Denmark. The scheme is designed for entrepreneurs who want to come to Denmark to establish their business. However, you will need to establish a Danish company after your business idea is approved and before your residence permit is issued.

Question 9

Do I need to speak Danish?

Accepted Answer

There is no Danish language requirement for the Startup Denmark scheme. The application process is conducted in English, and Denmark has a strong English-speaking business environment. However, learning Danish can be beneficial for integrating into Danish society and the local business community.

Question 10

How does the Startup Denmark application process work?

Accepted Answer

The process involves two main stages. First, you submit your business concept to the Danish Business Authority for evaluation. If your business concept is approved, you then apply to SIRI for a residence permit. The business concept evaluation assesses the innovation, scalability, and viability of your idea, as well as your qualifications as a founder. We provide consulting support throughout both stages.

Question 11

What happens after my business idea is approved?

Accepted Answer

After your business concept is approved by the Danish Business Authority, you can apply to SIRI for a residence permit. You will also need to establish a Danish company (typically an ApS - a Danish private limited company). The residence permit is initially granted for a limited period, during which you are expected to develop your business. We provide guidance on the steps following business approval.

Question 12

How long does the process take?

Accepted Answer

Processing times vary and are determined by the Danish authorities. The business concept evaluation by the Danish Business Authority and the subsequent residence permit application by SIRI each have their own processing timelines. We recommend checking the official Danish Business Authority and SIRI websites for current processing time estimates. We cannot influence or predict processing times.

Question 13

Can my family accompany me to Denmark?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If your Startup Denmark residence permit is approved, your spouse or partner and dependent children may be able to apply for family reunification to join you in Denmark. Family reunification applications are handled by SIRI and are subject to their own requirements and processing times. We recommend consulting the official SIRI website for current family reunification requirements.

Question 14

Can you guarantee that my application will be approved?

Accepted Answer

No. Approval decisions are made solely by the relevant Danish authorities - the Danish Business Authority and SIRI. We provide consulting support to help you prepare the strongest possible application, but we cannot influence, predict, or guarantee the outcome of any application. Anyone who claims to guarantee approval of a Danish immigration application is making a claim they cannot support.

Question 15

What exactly does your consulting service include?

Accepted Answer

Our consulting services cover the full range of support needed to prepare a strong Startup Denmark application - from initial idea assessment and business model development to market research, business plan preparation, application review, and submission guidance. All services are delivered one-to-one by Furqan Rathore. You can find a full breakdown on our Services page.

Question 16

Are you affiliated with the Danish Government or the official Startup Denmark programme?

Accepted Answer

No. Startup Visa Denmark is an independent private consulting service. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or part of the Danish Government, SIRI, the Danish Business Authority, or the official Startup Denmark programme. We are a private consultancy that helps entrepreneurs prepare their applications.

Question 17

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

The best way to get started is to book an initial consultation. We will discuss your startup idea, your background, and your goals, and give you an honest assessment of your situation and how we can help. You can book a consultation using the form on our Consultation page.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Startup Denmark

Eligibility & Requirements

The Application Process

Our Consulting Services

Still have questions?