Life in Denmark
Arriving in Denmark
Visas and Residence Permits
If you are an EU citizen, you may freely enter Denmark and remain in the country for up to 3 months without an EU residence document (registration certificate). If you expect to stay more than 3 months, you are required to apply for an EU residence document before the end of the three-month period.
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If you are a non-EU citizen, you must check the Danish visa rules in order to determine whether or not a visa is required for your country of residence. Citizens of Australia, Canada, the United States and a few other countries can freely enter and stay in Denmark as long as the stay does not exceed 3 months and the internship is not remunerated. Should you decide to extend your stay beyond 3 months, you are required to apply for a visa, which takes time for processing. A few non-Schengen countries have a working holiday programme with Denmark and this is an easier process for interns than the visa option. However, such arrangements are not required unless your stay exceeds 3 months.
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Quick links
Foreign nationals who have been issued certain types of residence permits in other Schengen countries do not need a visa to enter Denmark. The same applies to foreign nationals who have obtained visas for long stays from other Schengen countries. If you are in doubt as to the validity of your travel document in Denmark, you can check with the country that issued it.
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So, the bottom line is, before travelling, consider carefully the duration of your stay and check with the Danish Embassy/Consulate in your home country for visa requirements well in advance of your planned departure.
We have gathered a few links that might be useful for you, if you are new to Copenhagen:
Places to live:
Transport:
Tourist Attractions:
Useful apps to download:
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Etilbudsavis (save money on groceries)
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Rejseplanen (live public transport)
CPR Number
You will often come across the mention of the CPR number while being in Denmark. This is the national identification number of a person living in Denmark and is the main linkage between all Danish national registers. It is used in cases such as going to the doctor, using the Danish libraries, registering for Danish courses etc. It is almost essential to have a CPR number in many cases (e.g a requirement if you’re getting a Danish SIM-card, opening a bank account, and may be required from you landlord when signing a contract). It is therefore recommended that you prioritize getting a CPR number as soon as possible.
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Nordic citizens, citizens of EU and EEA countries and Switzerland are required to registerwith the Danish Civil Registration System and obtain a CPR number within six months of their arrival in Denmark. Non-EU/EEA citizens who intend to stay in Denmark for more than three months are required to register with the Danish Civil Registration System upon arrival.
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In order to register and be issued with a CPR number you need to show up in person at Citizens’ Services in the Municipality in which you live and have an address in Denmark. If you live in Copenhagen, you should go to the International House located on H.C Andersen Boulevard, close to the lakes. Getting a CPR number can be quite a complicated process and is very specific case by case. For further information on how to get a CPR number we suggest you refer to http://international.kk.dk/artikel/how-do-i-get-cpr-number for further guidance.
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Fortunately for many interns, your HR department will help you secure your Working Permit & CPR number. We recommend consulting with the HR Rep in your department as soon as your arrive at UN City.
Housing
Finding a place to live is probably one of the biggest challenges faced when moving to Copenhagen. We recommend starting the search as soon as you can and using as many possible ways as possible. Advertisements get a huge number of responses and so it can take a long time to get a positive reply from anyone. Just be mindful of scams and fraudulent advertisements on the internet. Avoid sending sensitive personal information (e.g., a copy of your passport), a deposit by money transfer (Western Union, etc.) or any type of pre-payment prior to a face-to-face meeting with your contact and a personal viewing of the accommodation.
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If you are satisfied after inspection of the accommodation, proceed with payment only if you have met with the person responsible for collecting the rent and only after you have secured a rental agreement. The rental agreement should clearly state the amount required for deposit and your daily/weekly/monthly rent. Avoid paying cash or making “under the table” arrangements; a bank transfer is the safest option.
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Below is a list of websites that could be used in the search for a room or apartment:
Another potential way of finding a place to stay is through using Facebook. This has become very popular for announcing and finding a place, just keep in mind that opportunities are taken really fast. Try the UIC Facebook group as existing interns might advertise a free room of their internship is almost at an end. Below is a list of other Facebook groups which might be useful:
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Banks
According to a general rule in the Danish legislation, any person has the right to open a basic bank account and it is free of charge. It may be a requirement to have a CPR number. When opening a bank account you can ask for a “Dankort”. It is a debit card which can be used to withdraw money from ATM machines and it can be used for almost any purchase. The majority of shops, bars, restaurants cafes, supermarkets and service providers accept “Dankort”.
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The two main banks in Denmark are Danske Bank and Nordea Bank. The only one having a net bank in English Language is the Danske Bank. To open an account the UN city advises its staff to contact one of the below branches as they are familiar with issues related to International Staff working in Denmark. Although interns are not considered staff members, perhaps these two branches might still be most helpful:
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Danske Bank
Holmens Kanal 2
1090 København K
Telephone: 45 12 60 00
www.danskebank.dk
Nordea Bank Christiansbro
Strandgade 3
0900 København C
Telephone: 33 33 33 33
www.nordea.dk
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Living in Denmark
Groceries
There is a large range of supermarkets in Denmark and many of them are found all over Copenhagen. This includes Netto, Rema 1000, Super Brugsen, Aldi, Lidl, Irma, Fakta, Føtex, Meny, Kvickly, and Bilka. With the large number of supermarkets in the city, there is always one to be found within walking distance of where you are. The different supermarkets vary in price, products available and quality, and it is very much personal preference which one you prefer. In general, Netto, Rema 1000, Aldi and Lidl are considered the cheapest and Meny and Irma are a little pricier. Føtex and Bilka are generally larger.
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Copenhagen also has shops open 24/7 such as 7 Eleven. You can also find more typical local shops known as ‘kiosks’ which are usually open very late and have all the basics items.
Many beverages sold in glass and plastic bottles and cans are integrated into the Danish deposit and return system. Look for the labels “Pant A”, “B”, and “C” (depending on size) or the word “Returflaske”. A small deposit is added to the price of these beverages, which will be paid back to you when you return the empty containers, possible in most supermarkets.
For more information on supermarkets:
http://www.visitcopenhagen.com/copenhagen/shopping/supermarkets
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Mobile Phone cards
Mobile Phone plans are relatively cheap in Denmark compared to many other European countries. It is easy to purchase a Danish SIM card for your mobile phone, which are readily available at the Copenhagen Airport, 7-Elevens and major supermarkets. Most interns purchase Lyca or Lebara, as you you can easily top-up with credit when needed. This website breaks down a variety of providers and SIM card options.
Tipping
Tipping in bars is not a common practice in Denmark. Restaurant and bar staff, taxi drivers, and porters, etc., earn decent wages in Denmark and tipping is only customary at the more posh venues or when service has been particularly good.
Taxi
Taxis are easily identified by the signs on the roof and behind the windshield (lit to show availability). You can hail them at most main streets in Copenhagen or at dedicated pick-up spots near train stations and hotels, or you can call to book the nearest available taxi or to pre-book for later. Taxi rides can be quite expensive and are mostly useful for getting home safely late at night or when travelling with a lot of luggage. Service is included in the fare, so you are not expected to tip.
TAXA 4x35 +45 3535 3535 (1-4 people); +45 3539 3535 (5-8 people)
Amager-Øbro Taxi +45 2727 2727
DanTaxi +45 7025 2525
TaxiNord +45 4848 4848
Language
Although the official language is Danish, it is very easy to get by in English as most Danes have a good understanding of the language, particularly in Copenhagen.
Weather
Because of Denmark’s northern location in Europe, the number of daylight hours varies significantly. During winter, the sun rises at about 08:00 and sets at about 15:30, whereas in summer the sun rises at about 03:30 and sets as late as 22:00.
Denmark is located in a temperate climate zone. Average daytime temperatures range from 2°C (35.6 °F) in January to 20 °C (68 °F) in August. As Copenhagen is located by the coast, it is quite windy with an average with speed of 7m/s. Rainy days are likely all year round and
snow is quite likely in winter.
A useful website to check the weather is from the Danish Meteorological Institute:
www.dmi.dk
Currency
The Danish currency is the krone (DKK). 1 krone = 100 øre. Exchange rates for June 2018 are approximately:
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1 Euro = 7.45 DKK
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1 USD = 6.45 DKK
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1 GBP = 8.44 DKK
Cost of Living
Copenhagen is one of the most expensive cities in Europe. A monthly rent of 3000 to 6000 DKK for a furnished room (including heat, electricity, water, and Internet access) is a reasonable rate. Depending on your lifestyle preferences, your monthly expenses for food can range from 2000 to 4000 DKK. If you prefer an active social life, you should expect to spend much more than that.
Your transportation to and from work could be another major expense that you need to consider, depending on the location of your accommodation. You may find it most economical to purchase a monthly travel card entitling you to unlimited use of public transport. The cost of a monthly card varies between 360 and 1290 DKK, depending on the number of zones it covers.
You may also consider investing in a bike. A new bike can cost between 1200 and 2000 DKK at supermarkets like Bilka, Kvickly, and SuperBrugsen. Second-hand bikes are usually half of the new price.
Medical System
Denmark has a comprehensive public health service, including doctors, medical specialists, hospitals, health service, home care, health visitor services, dental care and more. The Danish health service is based on the principle of equal access to health services for all citizens.
In case of an emergency such as an accident, medical emergency etc. call the number 112 to get in contact with the police/ambulance. You can always call 1813 in case of medical issues and you will receive medical help, e.g. outside of opening hours of your own doctor.
Culture and Activities
Copenhagen is an incredibly dynamic city, offering a large variety of spots to visit and activities to do. Surrounded by water, stunning parks and animated by events in every neighbourhood on a daily basis, this capital is extremely enjoyable for people of any age. The hundreds of outdoor activities offered, especially during the summer, make it the perfect place to do your internship while enjoying a “vacation mood”. Some very touristic places, such as castles, gardens and museum are a must for whoever visits the city, but the real charm of Copenhagen lies behind some hidden and unknown attractions.
The following sights, parks, bars and restaurant are just a very small selection of the many great things that Copenhagen has to offer. When meeting new people and your fellow interns at UN City you will quickly discover new interesting places to go to in the city.
Arts and Museums
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Arken - modern art
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Danish Design Museum - Danish design
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Glyptoteket - Carlberg's family's collection of sculptures and a great French art collection (especially the winter garden is very nice)
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Louisiana - a beautifully located contemporary art gallery north of Copenhagen (approximately half an hour by train)
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National Gallert of Denmark - permanent collection of Danish art and special exhibitions
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Statens Museum for Kunst (SMK) - Danish art (every first Friday of the month SMK organises SMK Fridays, a Friday bar event at SMK in the evening)
Sights
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Christiania - the freetown Christiania is a green and carfree area on Chtistianshavn and is best known for its alternative way of living
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Rosenborg Castle - Danish crown jewels
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Round Tower - gallery and church in the city centre
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Vor Frelser Kirke - Church on Christianshavn with a very high, golden towet that you can climb (even on the outside) and offers breathtaking views of Copenhagen.
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The Little Mermaid - landmark sculpture
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Christiansborg - the Danish parliament
Fun and Entertainment
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Danish Film Institute - library, bookshop, cafe, cinema
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Bakken - amusement park in Dyrehaven, a beautiful park north of Copenhagen
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Tivoli - amusement park in the city center of Copenhagen
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Vega - music venue
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The Royal Theatre - music, ballet, opera performances
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Distortion - street festival in Copenhagen in the beginning of June
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Roskilde Festival - the biggest music festival in Denmark
Parks and Green Areas
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Faelledparken - largest park in Copenhaagen, many sport activities take place here
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Frederiksberg Have - a beautiful garden in Frederiksberg. Frederiksberg Palace is located in the park.
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Christianshavns vold - a part of the old fortifications that once surrounded Copenhagen
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Kastellet - star-shaped fortress
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Kongens Have - popular park close to the city centre, perfect for picnics in summer. Rosenborg Castle is located there.
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The Lakes - popular for running and walks
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Dyrehaven - the big deer park north of Copenhagen close to Klampenborg, where Bakken is located.
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Botanical garden - located in the centre of Copenhagen and has a beautiful palmhouse.
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Amager faelled - big, 'wild' park close to Islands Brygge.
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Assistens Kirkegarden - cemetery on Norrebro where a number of famous people such as H.C. Andersen are buried.
Cafes and Bars
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Meatpacking (Kodbyen) - trendy district filled with popular restuarants and bars, these are a few of them:
-Mother - pizza
-Gorrila - fancy, more expensive but great restuarant
-Tommi's burger joint - a casual place with great burgers
-Kodbyens Mad and Market - a food market that takes place during summer in the weekend
-WEDOFOOD - take away salad bar
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Norrebro Bryghus - brewery and restaurant in Norrebro
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Brus - brewery and bar in Norrebro, popular hang out spot for UN Interns after the Friday bar.
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Paludan - cosy bookcafe in the city centre.
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Cafe Pixie - cosy cafe on Osterbro, close to the UN City.
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Copenhagen Street Food - amazing street market on Papiroen, especially when the sun is out the place will be filled with people enjoying great food by the water.
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Torvehallerne - slightly more expensive market place close to Norreport.
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Absalon - community centre with family-style dinners every day of the week in Vesterbro.
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La Glace- a must try when in Copenhagen, theoldest confectionery in Denmark.
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Studenterhuset - a student community where you can get coffee, drink beer etc.
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Distrikt Tonkin - a cosy, small place with Vietnamese food.