Denmark offers a Family Reunification Permit for spouses, partners, children, and close family members of Danish citizens or residents to allow families to reunite in Denmark. The permit grants residency rights and, in certain cases, the right to work. The process for family reunification is designed to ensure families remain connected while adhering to Danish immigration rules.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for family reunification in Denmark, both the applicant and sponsor must meet specific criteria:
- Relationship Requirement: The applicant must be a spouse, registered partner, cohabiting partner, or dependent child of a Danish resident or citizen.
- Age Requirement: Both the applicant and sponsor must be at least 24 years old for spousal reunification.
- Financial Requirement: The Danish sponsor must meet certain income and financial requirements to support the applicant.
- Accommodation Requirement: The sponsor must provide suitable housing for the family in Denmark.
- Language Requirement: In some cases, applicants may need to meet Danish language proficiency requirements.
- Health and Character Requirements: Both the applicant and sponsor must meet health and character requirements, including a clean criminal record.
Types of Family Reunification Permits
Denmark offers several types of family reunification permits, depending on the relationship between the applicant and the Danish sponsor:
- Spouse or Registered Partner Permit: For those married to or in a registered partnership with a Danish citizen or resident.
- Cohabiting Partner Permit: For couples who have lived together for a minimum of 18-24 months in a relationship akin to marriage.
- Child Permit: For children under 18 who wish to join their Danish parent in Denmark.
- Parent Permit: In limited cases, parents of minor Danish children may apply for a permit to care for their child.
Required Documents
The following documents are typically required when applying for a family reunification permit in Denmark:
- Proof of Relationship: Marriage certificate, registered partnership certificate, or proof of cohabitation if applicable.
- Identification Documents: Valid passports and identification documents for both the applicant and sponsor.
- Proof of Financial Stability: Income statements, tax returns, or employment contracts showing the sponsor’s financial capacity.
- Proof of Housing: Rental agreements or property ownership documents showing suitable accommodation in Denmark.
- Police Clearance Certificate: Criminal record checks for any country where the applicant has lived for more than six months.
- Passport Photos: Recent passport-sized photos for identification purposes.
- Health Insurance (if required): Proof of health insurance, especially if moving from outside the EU.
Application Process
The application process for a Danish family reunification permit involves several key steps:
- Gather All Required Documents: Collect and prepare the necessary documents according to Danish Immigration Service guidelines.
- Complete Online Application: Submit the application through the Danish Immigration Service’s online portal and pay the application fee.
- Submit Biometrics: Schedule an appointment to submit biometric data, including fingerprints and a photograph.
- Provide Additional Information: If requested, submit further documentation or attend an interview to verify the relationship.
- Receive Permit Decision: The Danish Immigration Service will process the application and issue a decision to the applicant.
Fees and Payment
Fees for family reunification permits in Denmark can vary depending on the applicant’s relationship to the Danish sponsor and their location. Typical fees include:
- Application Fee: Approximately DKK 6,515, though this may vary depending on specific case circumstances.
- Biometrics Fee: Additional fees may apply for biometrics submission at certain locations.
- Other Costs: Translation and certification of documents, if required, may incur additional fees.
Processing Time
The processing time for a family reunification permit in Denmark varies based on the applicant’s circumstances and the type of permit:
- Standard Processing Time: 6-12 months, depending on relationship type and applicant’s location.
- Complex Cases: Certain cases requiring further verification may take longer.
Key Points to Remember
- All documents not in Danish or English must be translated by a certified translator.
- Meet both the financial and housing requirements to ensure application success.
- Provide thorough documentation of the relationship to demonstrate authenticity.
- Apply well in advance due to variable processing times.
- Biometrics data collection is mandatory for all applicants, even if applying from outside Denmark.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I work in Denmark on a family reunification permit?
- Yes, most family reunification permit holders can work in Denmark, but applicants should confirm eligibility with the Danish Immigration Service.
- How long is the family reunification permit valid?
- The permit is typically valid for one to two years, with renewal options if the family relationship remains valid.
- Can I apply for permanent residency with this permit?
- Yes, after a period of continuous residence, usually eight years, permit holders may be eligible for permanent residency in Denmark.
- Is health insurance required for family reunification in Denmark?
- Yes, health insurance is generally required, especially for applicants moving from outside the EU until they qualify for the Danish Health Service.
- What happens if my application is denied?
- If your application is denied, you may appeal the decision or reapply with additional supporting evidence.
Official Website
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit the official Danish Immigration Service website.