Extension of residence permit

Extend your residence permit

To extend your residence permit in Denmark, you generally need to meet the ongoing requirements: Ensure you continue to fulfill the conditions that initially granted you the permit. For example:

• Work Permit: Maintain employment with the same employer or secure a new job offer.
• Study Permit: Remain enrolled in your studies and make satisfactory academic progress.
• Family Reunification: Maintain the family relationship that formed the basis of your permit.

Applying for an extension

Timing: Submit your application within the specified timeframe, typically no earlier than three months before your current permit expires.

Application Process: This usually involves submitting an application to the relevant Danish authorities, such as the Danish Immigration Service (Udlændingestyrelsen).

Required Documents: Gather all necessary supporting documents, which may vary depending on the type of residence permit.

Important Considerations:

Specifics Vary: The exact requirements and procedures for extending your residence permit will depend on the specific type of permit you hold (work, study, family reunification, etc.).

Consult Official Sources: Always refer to the official website of the Danish Immigration Service for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Seek Professional Advice: If you have any doubts or questions, it's advisable to consult with an immigration lawyer or a qualified advisor specializing in Danish immigration law.

Requirements for an extension

As a student

• Continued enrolment and academic progress: You must be actively enrolled in and making satisfactory progress in your higher education program. This typically involves maintaining a certain grade point average or fulfilling specific course requirements.
• Financial Support: You must demonstrate that you have sufficient financial means to support yourself during your studies and any subsequent job search period. This may involve proof of sufficient funds in a Danish bank account, a scholarship or grant covering your living expenses, or evidence of financial support from family or sponsors.
• Job Search Period: Upon successful completion of your studies, you are generally granted a limited period (usually 6 months) to search for employment in Denmark. During this period, you can legally stay in Denmark and actively seek employment without needing a separate work permit.
• Applying for a Work Permit: If you receive a job offer from a Danish employer within this job search period, you must apply for a new residence and work permit. The specific requirements for this work permit will depend on the nature of the job and your nationality.

Changing jobs

If you change jobs while holding a residence and work permit in Denmark, you generally need to apply for a new residence and work permit.

• Job Change Rule: Denmark has a "job change rule" that allows you to start your new job while your application for the new permit is being processed. You must submit your new application before starting the new job.
• New Application: You'll need to submit a new application to the Danish Immigration Service (Udlændingestyrelsen), including a copy of your new employment contract and any other relevant documents, as per the specific requirements of your situation.
• Continued Employment in Current Job: If you continue in your current job while applying for a new permit based on the new employment, you can generally do so.

Extend on the basis of family reunification

If your residence permit in Denmark is based on family reunification, extending it generally requires demonstrating that the family relationship that formed the basis of the original permit continues to exist.

• Maintaining the Family Relationship - Marriage: If your permit is based on marriage, you must continue to be legally married to your Danish spouse or partner.
• Other Family Relationships: If your permit is based on other family relationships (e.g., child of a Danish citizen), the family relationship must still be valid and ongoing.
• Financial Support: You may need to demonstrate that you have sufficient financial means to support yourself in Denmark.
• No Obstacles to Family Life: There should be no significant obstacles to maintaining family life in Denmark.

Key Documents: Proof of Marriage or Family Relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificates, other relevant documents such as adoption certificates); Proof of Residency (rental agreement, utility bills); Financial Documents (bank statements, proof of income, proof of financial support from family or sponsors).

Important Considerations: Changes in Circumstances - if there have been any significant changes in your family situation (e.g., divorce, separation, birth of a child), you must inform the Danish Immigration Service. Consulting Official Sources - always refer to the official website of the Danish Immigration Service (udlændingestyrelsen.dk) for the most accurate and up-to-date information on specific requirements and procedures. Seeking Professional Advice - if you have any doubts or questions, it's highly recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer or a qualified advisor specializing in Danish immigration law. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific circumstances.

How can Globe Advokater help?

Globe Advokater can help you navigate the complex process of extending your residence permit to Denmark. Our experienced immigration lawyers can:

• Assess your eligibility
• Prepare and submit your application
• Represent you before the Danish Immigration Service
• Provide guidance and support throughout the process

Let us help you secure your future in Denmark.