Denmark travel guide

Overview

Travel tip

Public transportation is well-developed, making it easy to get around. Consider cycling to explore the cities.

Before you go

Denmark is part of the Schengen Area, so many nationalities can stay visa-free for short visits for up to 90 days in any 180-day period under Schengen rules. However, visa requirements depend on your nationality and the purpose of your trip, so check the rules for your passport before you travel. Denmark does not generally require a separate electronic travel authorization for ordinary tourists, and it does not normally use an advance online arrival card system like Japan’s Visit Japan Web or Singapore’s SG Arrival Card. Paper arrival cards are generally not used, and cash exceeding EUR 10,000 must be declared under EU rules.

Entry procedure

1. Choose the immigration lane

   As you arrive in the Schengen area, have your passport and boarding pass ready and head to the immigration counters or passport e-gates. Officers may ask about your travel purpose and length of stay, so be ready to explain your plans with hotel details or a return ticket.

2. Use e-gates or provide biometrics

   If eligible, some travelers can use e-gates, but first-time entries or travelers who do not meet the conditions may be sent to an officer. Under the Schengen entry-exit rules, biometric registration such as a facial image and fingerprints may be required depending on your nationality and how you enter, so follow the posted instructions.

3. Clear customs

   Denmark applies common EU customs rules, so restricted or prohibited items must be declared. Meat, dairy products, plants, fruits, and similar goods may be restricted depending on origin and type, so food items may be checked separately.

4. Finish entry formalities

   Whether you receive a passport stamp can depend on your nationality and the way you entered, so check the instructions after inspection. Before leaving the airport, quickly confirm that your permitted stay and the passport details are correct.

Exit procedure

1. Handle VAT refunds before departure

   If you want a VAT refund on purchases made in Denmark, you may need to present receipts and goods at a tax-refund counter or kiosk at the airport. In most cases, inspection and validation must happen before departure, so arrive early enough to do this before check-in closes.

2. Exit checks and boarding

   Departure from Denmark, as part of Schengen, is usually handled through passport verification and normal boarding procedures, and there is generally no separate exit tax. After checking baggage and getting your boarding pass at the airline counter, follow security screening and the boarding gate process.

Cities in Denmark