Denmark's government has confirmed that foreign nationals holding a valid residence and work permit are entitled to bring certain family members to join them, according to guidance published by the Danish immigration authority. The rules apply to individuals already residing in Denmark under a work permit as well as those in the process of relocating there.

Who Qualifies as an Accompanying Family Member

The Danish immigration authority sets out four categories of relatives who may apply for a residence permit as accompanying family members: spouses of the foreign worker, registered partners, cohabiting partners, and children under the age of 18 who are living at home, as reported by Legit News and Yen News.

Beyond these standard categories, the authority noted that other relatives may be considered in exceptional cases, though such applications are treated as exceptions rather than routine approvals. This provision was consistently reported by both outlets.

Application Process and Guidance

Family members are permitted to submit their residence permit applications at the same time the primary permit holder, referred to as the "sponsor" by Legit News, files their own application. The Danish immigration authority advised accompanying family members to apply as early as possible, particularly when submitting alongside the sponsor, as doing so can help simplify and speed up the overall process.

For family members of a person holding a Danish green card, the authority noted that separate guidance exists covering the specific rules and requirements applicable to that category, according to both sources.

Background on Danish Immigration Policy

Denmark has in recent years adjusted various aspects of its immigration framework, making clarity around family reunification rules particularly relevant for foreign professionals considering relocation to the country, as noted by Yen News.

Related reports from Legit News have covered other Danish immigration policies, including a list of six groups of foreigners exempt from residence permit expiry rules and a category of foreigners barred from permanent residence permits under a no-exception rule. Yen News separately reported that Denmark has outlined official conditions under which foreigners may qualify to serve in its armed forces.

These broader policy contexts were mentioned by the respective outlets but were not central to the confirmation of the family reunification rules.