Reviewed by: Professional Visa Consultants team of BTW Visas (Denmark Visa Experts)
Planning your dream trip to Denmark? As an Indian citizen, understanding the Denmark visa requirements is crucial for a smooth travel experience. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about obtaining a Denmark Schengen visa in 2025-2026, including the latest updates, application procedures, fees, processing times, and expert tips to maximize your approval chances.
Denmark, as a proud member of the European Union and the Schengen Area, follows the unified Schengen visa policy. This means that a Denmark Schengen visa not only grants you entry to Denmark but also allows seamless travel across 26 other European countries, including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, and more.
Indian citizens with ordinary passports must obtain a visa before traveling to Denmark. However, there are specific exemptions:
Denmark offers several visa categories based on your travel purpose:
For leisure travel, sightseeing, and exploring Denmark's beautiful cities like Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Odense. This is the most common visa type for Indian travelers.
For attending business meetings, conferences, trade fairs, or exploring business opportunities in Denmark.
If you have family members or friends residing in Denmark and wish to visit them.
For short-term educational programs, sports events, or cultural activities lasting less than 90 days.
For travelers passing through Denmark en route to a non-Schengen destination.
For stays exceeding 90 days, such as work, study, or family reunification. This requires a separate residence permit application.
Understanding the complete cost structure helps you budget accurately for your Denmark visa application.
Category | Fee in EUR | Fee in DKK | Fee in INR (Approx.) |
Adults (18+ years) | €80 | DKK 670 | ₹8,600 |
Children (6-12 years) | €40 | DKK 335 | ₹4,300 |
Children (Under 6 years) | Free | Free | Free |
Beyond the official visa fee, you'll need to pay:
Visa fees may be waived for:
Important Note: Visa fees are non-refundable, even if your application is rejected or withdrawn. Ensure all documents are complete before submission.
Proper documentation is the cornerstone of a successful visa application. Here's the comprehensive checklist verified by official Danish embassy sources:
Your passport must meet these strict requirements:
Provide detailed proof of your travel plans:
Expert Tip: You don't need to purchase tickets before visa approval. Many travel agencies offer dummy tickets or flight reservations specifically for visa applications.
You must demonstrate where you'll stay in Denmark:
Mandatory requirement for all Schengen visa applications:
Approved Indian Insurance Companies: The Danish embassy accepts travel insurance from several Indian providers. Verify the current list on the official embassy website or through VFS Global.
Demonstrate you can financially support yourself during your stay:
Minimum Daily Requirement:
Acceptable Financial Documents:
Expert Tip: Maintain a healthy bank balance showing regular income and transactions. Sudden large deposits may raise red flags.
For Employed Individuals:
For Self-Employed/Business Owners:
For Students:
For Retired Individuals:
A well-written cover letter significantly strengthens your application:
For Business Visa:
For Visiting Family/Friends:
For Students:
Follow this detailed process to ensure a smooth application experience:
Since Denmark is part of the Schengen Area, you must apply to the country where you'll spend the most time. If you're spending equal time in multiple countries, apply to your first point of entry.
Review the complete document checklist and start gathering all required documents at least 4-6 weeks before your intended travel date.
Pay the visa fee online through the VFS Global portal. You'll receive a payment confirmation receipt. Keep this receipt safe as you'll need it for your appointment.
VFS Global Centers in India: Denmark visa applications are processed through VFS Global centers located in:
Booking Tips:
What to Expect:
What to Bring:
Biometric Requirements:
Important Notes:
After submission, you can track your application status:
Once processed, you can:
Verification: Immediately check your visa sticker for:
Understanding processing timelines helps you plan your travel effectively.
Official Timeline: 15 calendar days from the date the Danish embassy receives your complete application from VFS Global.
Total Timeline (Including VFS Processing):
In certain situations, processing may take longer:
Peak Seasons:
Earliest Application: 6 months before your intended travel date (9 months for seafarers)
Latest Application: 15 days before travel (not recommended)
Recommended Timeline: Apply at least 4-6 weeks before your travel date to account for:
Expert Tip: During peak seasons, apply 8-10 weeks in advance to ensure timely processing.
Understanding visa validity helps you plan multiple trips and maximize your visa benefits.
Denmark follows the EU cascade system for issuing multiple-entry visas:
First Application: Usually single-entry or short-validity multiple-entry visa
Subsequent Applications (with good travel history):
Requirements for Long-Term Visa:
In 2024, approximately 23.7% of Denmark Schengen visa applications were rejected globally. Understanding common rejection reasons helps you avoid them.
Problem: Unable to demonstrate adequate funds for the trip.
Solution:
Problem: Missing documents, incorrect information, or poor-quality photocopies.
Solution:
Problem: Insurance doesn't meet minimum coverage requirements or doesn't cover all Schengen countries.
Solution:
Problem: Vague or inconsistent travel plans.
Solution:
Problem: Consular officers doubt your intention to return to India.
Solution:
Problem: History of overstaying, visa misuse, or Schengen violations.
Solution:
Problem: Unusual travel history or patterns that raise red flags.
Solution:
Problem: Passport doesn't meet validity requirements.
Solution:
Don't wait until the last minute. Apply 4-6 weeks before your travel date, or 8-10 weeks during peak seasons.
Provide truthful information throughout your application. Inconsistencies between documents or interview responses can lead to rejection.
Show compelling reasons to return:
Your cover letter is your opportunity to tell your story:
Use refundable hotel bookings or get invitation letters from hosts. This shows planning without financial risk if visa is rejected.
Don't compromise on insurance. Purchase from reputable providers with proper Schengen coverage.
While not always required, be prepared to answer questions about:
Denmark offers a Red Carpet Programme for frequent business travelers, making the visa process faster and more convenient.
Contact the Danish Embassy in New Delhi or visit the official website for enrollment procedures and requirements.
Challenges:
Tips:
Advantages:
Tips:
Considerations:
Tips:
Requirements:
Tips:
Advantages:
Tips:
The Schengen Area follows a strict 90/180 day rule that all travelers must understand:
Example 1:
Example 2:
Use the official Schengen visa calculator available on the European Commission website to track your days accurately.
Expert Tip: Always maintain a buffer and leave a few days before your 90-day limit to avoid any miscalculations or travel delays.
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) is a new electronic travel authorization system launching in late 2026 for visa-exempt countries.
Good News: Indian citizens will continue to apply for Schengen visas as usual. ETIAS does not affect visa-required countries like India.
If You Have Schengen Visa: You don't need ETIAS. It's an "either/or" situation.
Understanding the complete cost helps you budget accurately:
Item | Cost (INR) |
Visa Fee (Adult) | ₹8,600 |
VFS Service Fee | ₹1,400 |
Subtotal | ₹10,000 |
Item | Cost (INR) |
Travel Insurance | ₹500-2,000 |
Photographs | ₹100-300 |
Document Photocopies | ₹200-500 |
Travel to VFS Center | ₹500-2,000 |
Courier Service (Optional) | ₹300-500 |
Total Additional | ₹1,600-5,300 |
Estimated Total Cost: ₹11,600 - ₹15,300 per person
For Families: Multiply by number of applicants (children under 6 are free)
Address: Embassy of Denmark 33-B, Dr. S. Radhakrishnan Marg Chanakyapuri, New Delhi - 110021
Phone: +91 (011) 4209 0700 (No Visa Enquiries)
Embassy Visa Helpline: +91 (011) 4209 0751 Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Email: Available on official website (No Visa Enquiries)
Website: indien.um.dk
Helpline: +91 22-67866009 Timings: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Monday to Friday)
Email: Available on VFS Global website
Website: visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/dnk
Obtaining a Denmark visa as an Indian citizen is a straightforward process when you understand the requirements and follow the proper procedures. This comprehensive guide has covered everything from document requirements and application procedures to expert tips and common pitfalls to avoid.
Key Takeaways:
Denmark offers incredible experiences, from the colorful Nyhavn harbor in Copenhagen to the stunning Kronborg Castle, from world-class design museums to beautiful coastal landscapes. With proper preparation and the right documentation, your Denmark visa application can be successful, opening doors to not just Denmark but the entire Schengen Area.
Remember, each visa application is unique, and while this guide provides comprehensive information, always verify the latest requirements on official Danish embassy and VFS Global websites. Requirements can change, and staying updated ensures a smooth application process.
Ready to start your Denmark adventure? Begin gathering your documents today, and soon you'll be exploring the happiest country in the world!
Disclaimer: Visa regulations can change without notice. Always verify current requirements through official Denmark government sources before applying. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Last Updated: December 2, 2025
Content Accuracy:This guide is compiled from official sources including the Danish Embassy in India, Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, VFS Global, European Commission, and verified travel industry experts. All information is accurate as of the publication date.
Expert Contributors: BTW Visas experts team with 15+ years of industry experience, with a 99% visa success rate, and have processed more than 4 lakh+ Visas.
Yes, but you must apply to the country where you'll spend the most time. If you're spending equal time in multiple countries, apply to your first point of entry. A Denmark Schengen visa allows travel to all 27 Schengen countries.
Standard processing time is 15 calendar days from when the embassy receives your application. However, including VFS processing, expect 17-20 days. During peak seasons or for complex cases, it can take up to 45-60 days. Apply at least 4-6 weeks before your travel date.
The visa fee is €80 (approximately ₹8,600) for adults and €40 (approximately ₹4,300) for children aged 6-12 years. Children under 6 are exempt. Additionally, VFS Global charges a service fee of €15 (approximately ₹1,400).
Yes, frequent travelers with good Schengen travel history may be eligible for multiple-entry visas valid for up to 5 years. However, first-time applicants typically receive single-entry or shorter validity visas. The 90/180 day rule still applies regardless of visa validity.
In 2024, approximately 23.7% of Denmark Schengen visa applications were rejected globally. Common reasons include insufficient financial proof, incomplete documentation, weak ties to India, and unclear travel purpose. Following proper procedures and providing complete documentation significantly improves approval chances.
No, you don't need to purchase non-refundable tickets. You can provide flight reservations or dummy tickets specifically for visa applications. Only purchase confirmed tickets after your visa is approved.
You must show at least DKK 500 (€67.24 or approximately ₹6,000) per day if staying in hotels, or DKK 350 (€47.07 or approximately ₹4,200) per day for budget accommodation. For a 10-day trip, you'd need approximately ₹60,000-₹70,000 in your bank account. The balance should be maintained for at least 3-6 months.
No, a Schengen tourist visa (Type C) does not permit work, study, or residence in Denmark. If you plan to work or stay longer than 90 days, you must apply for a separate work permit or residence permit (Type D visa).
The Red Carpet Programme is a special initiative for frequent business travelers to Denmark, offering faster processing, longer visa validity, and simplified procedures. Eligibility requires good travel history and legitimate business need for regular travel.
Schengen short-stay visas (Type C) can only be extended in exceptional circumstances, such as force majeure, humanitarian reasons, or serious personal reasons. Extensions are not granted for tourism purposes. Plan your trip duration carefully before applying.
If rejected, you'll receive a letter explaining the reasons. You have the right to appeal the decision within a specified timeframe. Alternatively, you can reapply after addressing the rejection reasons. Visa fees are non-refundable even if rejected.
Yes, travel medical insurance is mandatory for all Schengen visa applications. It must cover at least €30,000 (approximately ₹28,00,000) for emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and repatriation across all Schengen countries.
The application form can be filled online through the VFS Global website, but you must attend an in-person appointment at a VFS center for biometric data collection and document submission. The process is not entirely online.
You can apply as early as 6 months before your intended travel date (9 months for seafarers). The latest you should apply is 15 days before travel, though this is not recommended, especially during peak seasons.
A single-entry visa allows one entry into the Schengen Area, after which the visa becomes invalid. A multiple-entry visa allows multiple entries during its validity period, but you must still respect the 90/180 day rule.
Being a Schengen permit, the Danish visa cannot be extended. You are expected to leave the country before the expiry of the permit. Staying back after a period of 90 days is considered as an offence, and can get you deported and maybe even banned from the re-entry. However, in certain extreme circumstances such as medical conditions, unfavourable situations in the home country, etc, you may be allowed to extend the permit.
Yes, you can most definitely travel to other countries that are a part of the Schengen agreement. However, keep in mind that you possessing a Danish permit is not automatic grounds for entry. Your entry will still depend on the immigration control for the individual countries. Also, in case you have received an LTV type, you can only visit the countries mentioned on your sticker.
No, you cannot travel to all European nations with this permit as not all of these countries are a part of the Schengen. You are free to travel to any of the 26 Schengen nations if your visa is not an LTV. For other countries, you will have to apply for their independent permit. However, a good travel record with a Schengen permit may help your application for those countries.
There is no particular amount that you have to possess. The purpose of financial documents is to prove that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses while you are in the country. This is also required to prove that you have a steady source of income. As a result, you must show that you have enough to cover food, transportation, accommodation, and other basic necessities while you are in Denmark.
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