Table of Contents

• Step 1: Determine the Appropriate Visa Scheme
• Step 4: Pay the Visa Application Fee
• Cost Breakdown
• Summary of Estimated Costs
• Frequently Asked Questions

Complete Guide to Applying for a Danish Work Visa as a Nepali Citizen

If you're a Nepali citizen planning to start a new chapter in Denmark, the first essential step is securing your work visa. Whether it's for career growth or a fresh opportunity, this guide is your roadmap to navigating the application process, step-by-step.

Step 1: Determine the Appropriate Visa Scheme

Denmark offers a variety of work visa schemes, each tailored for different employment situations. Identifying the one that matches your job offer and qualifications is crucial. Below, we outline the main schemes you'll encounter:

1. Pay Limit Scheme

This scheme applies to individuals who have a job offer in Denmark that meets a minimum salary threshold. Salary requirements can vary, so it's essential to check the latest details on the SIRI website.

2. Positive List Scheme

The Positive List includes occupations in Denmark where there's a shortage of qualified workers. If your job is listed and you meet the necessary qualifications, this is the scheme for you.

3. Fast-Track Scheme

Designed for highly qualified professionals, the Fast-Track Scheme offers faster processing. Employers must be Fast-Track approved to sponsor applicants, providing a quicker route to a work permit.

4. Trainee Scheme

For those looking for temporary employment as trainees, this scheme requires a signed training agreement with a Danish employer.

5. Herdsmen and Farm Managers

If you have experience in agriculture, this scheme targets those offered positions as herdsmen or farm managers in Denmark.

6. Sideline Employment

If you're already holding a residence permit based on a specific job, the Sideline Employment scheme allows you to take on additional work while maintaining your primary role.

7. Employment for Adaptation and Training Purposes

This scheme helps foreign-trained medical professionals like doctors and dentists transition into the Danish healthcare system.

8. Special Individual Qualifications

For exceptional performers, artists, athletes, or chefs, this scheme allows those with outstanding talent and recognition in their field to apply.

9. Labor Market Attachment

For individuals with refugee status or family members of residents, this scheme facilitates entry into the labor market.

10. Researchers

If you're a researcher with a Ph.D. or equivalent qualifications and a job offer from a Danish research institution, you may be eligible for this scheme.

11. Start-Up Scheme

Entrepreneurs looking to start a business in Denmark can apply for the Start-Up Scheme, which requires a viable business plan and potential for job creation.

12. Internship Scheme

For students or recent graduates seeking internships related to their field of study, this scheme offers a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience in Denmark.

13. Volunteer Scheme

If you're interested in unpaid social or humanitarian work, the Volunteer Scheme offers a way to contribute to society in Denmark.

14. Mobile Workplaces at Sea

For those working on vessels like ships or drilling rigs, this scheme provides a specialized work permit for maritime employment.

15. Work Permit During Residence to Obtain Authorization

Foreign-trained professionals seeking Danish authorization and relevant work experience can benefit from this scheme.

Each visa scheme has specific eligibility requirements, so be sure to review the full details on the SIRI/new to denmark website to determine which one best aligns with your job offer and qualifications.

Step 2: Secure a Job Offer

Before you can start your visa application, you need a job offer from a Danish employer. Your employment contract or job offer must be no older than 30 days when you submit your application. A confirmed job offer is the foundation of your visa application process.

Step 3: Create a Case Order ID

Once you have your job offer, the next step is creating a Case Order ID—a unique reference number that tracks your application. To get your Case Order ID:

1. Visit the SIRI website and select the appropriate visa scheme.
2. Fill in your personal details, passport information, and email address.
3. Follow the instructions to generate your Case Order ID.

Keep this number safe, as you’ll need it throughout the application process.

Step 4: Pay the Visa Application Fee

After receiving your Case Order ID, it’s time to pay the visa application fee. The standard fee for most work visas is around DKK 4,405 (approximately €590). Be sure to make the payment within the same calendar year as your application to avoid any issues. Payments can be made online via the SIRI website.

Step 5: Gather Required Documentation

Now, it’s time to collect the necessary documents for your application. These typically include:

• Valid Passport: Must be valid for the entire duration of your stay and have at least two blank pages.
• Copy of Passport: Include clear copies of all used pages (excluding blank ones).
• Health Insurance: Proof of valid health insurance covering your full stay in Denmark.
• Passport-Sized Photographs: Recent photos that meet Schengen requirements.
• Proof of Visa Fee Payment: Receipt or confirmation of your payment.
• Employment Contract or Job Offer: Must be no older than 30 days.
• Educational Qualifications: Official copies of relevant diplomas (translated into English or Danish, if necessary).
• Danish Authorization: If applicable, for regulated professions.
• Power of Attorney Form: If someone else is submitting your application on your behalf.

Step 6: Submit the Application

You can submit your application in one of three ways:

1. Online Submission: Through the SIRI/new to denmark online portal.
2. In-Person Submission: At the VFS Global Denmark Visa Application Centre in Kathmandu.
3. Submission in Denmark: If you’re already in Denmark (except for tourist status), you can submit your application directly at a SIRI branch office.

Step 7: Provide Biometric Data

Within 14 days of submitting your application, you’ll need to provide biometric data—a facial photograph and fingerprints. This can be done at the VFS Global Visa Centre or any Danish diplomatic mission. Don’t forget to bring your passport and a copy of your application confirmation.

Step 8: Await Processing

Processing times for Danish work visas generally range from 1 to 3 months depending on the visa scheme and your specific case. To minimize delays, ensure your application is complete and submit it well ahead of your planned start date.

Step 9: Receive the Decision

Once your application has been processed, you’ll receive a decision via email or through the application portal. If approved, you’ll be granted a residence permit to work in Denmark. If your application is denied, you’ll be informed of the reasons and how to appeal.

Step 10: Post-Approval Steps

Once approved, there are a few things to do:

• Residence Permit Card: You may need to provide biometric data again to receive your residence permit card.
• Register with Danish Authorities: Upon arrival in Denmark, register with the local municipality (kommune) and get your Central Person Register (CPR) number, which is essential for accessing public services like healthcare and education.

Step 11: Bringing Family Members

If you plan to bring family members, they can apply for family reunification. Your spouse, registered partner, or children under 18 can apply, and they will need to provide necessary documents such as proof of relationship, accommodation, and financial means.

Additional Considerations

• Health Insurance: Ensure you have valid health insurance throughout your stay in Denmark.
• Tax Registration: Register with the Danish Tax Agency (Skattestyrelsen) to receive a tax card. Taxes are automatically deducted from your salary.
• Language Courses: Consider taking Danish language courses to help you integrate into both Danish society and the workplace.

Cost Breakdown

If you're a Nepali citizen looking to work in Denmark, understanding the costs involved in the visa application process is essential. Here's a detailed breakdown of the key expenses you'll face when applying for a Danish work visa:

1. Visa Application Fee

The standard fee for most Danish work visas is DKK 4,405 (approximately €590). This is the primary fee you'll need to budget for when submitting your application.

2. Biometric Data Fee

As part of the application process, providing biometric data (facial photograph and fingerprints) is mandatory. The biometric data fee is DKK 560 (approximately €75).

3. Visa Application Centre Service Fee

If you submit your application through the VFS Global centre in Kathmandu, a service fee of €30 is applicable. This is in addition to the visa application fee.

4. Document Translation and Notarization

Any documents that are not in English or Danish must be translated and notarized. The cost for this service typically ranges from NPR 1,500 to NPR 3,000 per page, depending on the service provider.

5. Travel Insurance

A valid health insurance policy covering the entire duration of your stay is required. Depending on the provider and coverage, the cost for travel insurance can range from NPR 10,000 to NPR 20,000.

6. Passport Photographs

Recent passport-sized photographs that meet Schengen requirements are necessary. In Kathmandu, the cost for these photographs ranges from NPR 500 to NPR 1,000.

7. Miscellaneous Expenses

Additional costs may include travel to and from the application center, postal or courier services, and other incidental expenses. These can be estimated between NPR 2,000 to NPR 5,000.

Summary of Estimated Costs

Conclusion

And there you have it! 🎉 Applying for a Danish work visa may seem like a lot, but with the right steps, you’ll be in Denmark before you know it! From choosing your visa scheme to gathering your docs and paying the fees, just follow this guide, stay organized, and you’re good to go.

Take it step-by-step, refer to SIRI/new to denmark for updates, and get ready to embark on your professional adventure in Denmark. 🌍💼 Good luck, and we hope you enjoy every step of the journey!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many working hours are required per week in Denmark?
   The standard workweek in Denmark is typically 37 hours, with flexible working hours in many jobs. Overtime is generally compensated, so you're covered if you work extra!

2. What is Denmark’s tax system like for foreign workers?
   Denmark has a high tax rate, but in return, you’ll enjoy fantastic public services like healthcare and education. Don’t forget to register with the Danish Tax Agency (Skattestyrelsen) for your tax card!

3. Can my family join me in Denmark if I get a work visa?
   Absolutely! Your spouse, children under 18, and sometimes even other dependents can apply for family reunification once your work visa is approved.

4. Do I need to pay into Denmark’s social security system?
   Yes, when you work in Denmark, you contribute to the Danish social security system, which includes healthcare, pensions, and unemployment benefits.

5. What is the cost of living in Denmark compared to Nepal?
   Denmark is expensive compared to Nepal, especially in terms of housing and food. However, salaries are also higher, so it balances out. Make sure to budget wisely for transportation and healthcare.

6. Is Denmark a safe country to live in?
   Absolutely! Denmark is one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates and a high standard of living.

7. Can I travel freely within Europe with a Danish work visa?
   Yes, once you have a Danish residence permit, you can travel freely within the Schengen Area without needing additional visas.

8. What’s the weather like in Denmark?
   Denmark has a temperate maritime climate—mild winters and cool summers. Rain is common, so be sure to pack your umbrella!

9. Do I need to get health insurance in Denmark?
   As a resident, you’ll be eligible for public healthcare once you register with the municipality and get your CPR number. You can also opt for private health insurance if you prefer.

10. How long can I stay in Denmark on a work visa?
    Your work visa is typically valid for 1 to 4 years, depending on the type of job and scheme. You can extend your visa based on your employment status!

11. Is Denmark an expensive country to visit for tourism?
    Denmark can be pricey for tourists, with high costs for accommodation, food, and attractions. But with smart planning, you can enjoy the beauty of Denmark on a budget!

12. What is the Danish work visa application processing time?
    The processing time for a work visa typically takes 1 to 3 months, depending on the visa scheme and your specific situation. Be sure to apply well in advance!