Launch your Start-up in Denmark

Why launch your start-up in Denmark?

Denmark is one of the best places in Europe to start a business and for good reason. It offers a mix of easy business setup, strong support for innovation, and a great quality of life. If you are thinking about starting a company, Denmark could be one of the smartest choices you make.

• Easy Business Setup – Fast, digital registration and minimal bureaucracy
• EU Market Access – Gateway to 450+ million consumers
• Government Funding & Support – Grants, loans, and programs for start-ups
• Strong Startup Ecosystem – Hubs in Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Odense
• Focus on Sustainability & Innovation – Ideal for green and tech ventures
• Skilled Talent Pool – Highly educated, English-speaking workforce
• High Quality of Life – Great for attracting and retaining global talent
• Startup Visa Program – Open to non-EU founders with innovative ideas

How do I get started in Denmark?

The Danish government created Start-up Denmark to help talented entrepreneurs move to Denmark and grow their start-ups. This program is for early-stage businesses and allows up to 2 founders to apply together. If your application is accepted, you can get a residence and work permit for 2 years, which can be extended for another 3 years.

Here’s an easy-to-follow guide to help you start your business in Denmark :

• Validate Your Idea – Make sure your business solves a real problem
• Choose a Business Type – Most common: ApS
• Register Online – Use Virk.dk to get your CVR number
• Open a Business Bank Account – Needed to deposit share capital and operate
• Register for VAT & Taxes – If annual revenue exceeds DKK 50,000
• Understand Legal Requirements – Taxes, GDPR, employee rules if hiring
• Apply for Startup Visa – If you’re a non-EU founder (via Startup Denmark program)
• Join Startup Hubs & Apply for Funding – e.g. Innovation Fund, Vækstfonden, Accelerace

Setting up a business in Denmark

Starting your own business or branch in Denmark is usually straightforward. If you find the process confusing, you can always get help by contacting the Danish Business Authority’s Customer Centre.

Residence and Work Permit

Before you start working on your business in Denmark, you need to be fully approved by Startup Denmark. This means you must have a Danish residence and work permit from the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration. This permit includes a CPR number (a personal ID number), which you need to register your business.

Register Your Business

If you don’t already have one, apply for a secure MitID login. Next, decide what type of business you want to start and apply for a CVR number through the online system “Start virksomhed” at virk.dk. The CVR number is your business’s official ID and is used when dealing with government authorities and issuing invoices. Remember, businesses registered in Denmark must follow Danish tax laws. How much tax you pay depends on the type of company you set up.

Who is eligible to apply?

To be approved for the Start-up Denmark program, your business should have strong potential to grow quickly and reach customers worldwide. The program focuses on new, creative ideas that can expand fast. That means businesses like restaurants, retail stores, or import/export companies usually don’t qualify.

• Entrepreneurs with an innovative, scalable business idea
• Early-stage start-ups looking to establish or grow in Denmark
• Up to 2 founders can apply together
• Both Danish citizens and international entrepreneurs (including non-EU citizens) can apply
• Founders who want to live and work in Denmark while building their start-up

Conclusion

Launching your start-up in Denmark offers a great opportunity thanks to its easy business setup, strong support for innovation, and access to the European market. With government programs like Startup Denmark, a skilled talent pool, and a high quality of life, Denmark provides the perfect environment to grow your business. Whether you’re a local or international entrepreneur, Denmark welcomes you to build, scale, and succeed with your start-up.

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