Accommodation Denmark

Short-term rental

 

Platforms for finding accommodation

Airbnb: A popular platform for short-term apartment and house rentals.

Booking.com: Offers a wide selection of apartments and flats for short-term rental.

Karta.com: Specializes in daily rental accommodation in various cities in Denmark.

 

Features: Short-term rental is suitable for tourists and those temporarily in the country. Many properties are fully furnished and equipped with necessary appliances. The cost can be higher compared to long-term rental, especially in tourist areas.

 

Long-term rental

 

Platforms for finding accommodation

BoligPortal: The largest Danish portal for finding long-term rental accommodation.

Lejebolig: Offers a wide selection of apartments and houses for rent.

HousingAnywhere: An international platform offering long-term rental options in Denmark.

 

Rental process

Contact the landlord to clarify details and arrange a viewing.

It is recommended to personally inspect the property before signing the contract.

The rental contract should be in writing with all terms specified.

The deposit is usually up to three months of rent and is returned after the contract ends if there are no damages.

 

Features

The minimum rental period is often 12 months but may vary.

Rent increases are regulated by law and must be justified.

The standard notice period for termination is three months unless otherwise specified in the contract.

 

Practical advice

Documents: Prepare copies of your passport, proof of income, and recommendations from previous landlords.

Rental housing contract

 

Legal protection: A rental agreement establishes the rights and obligations of both the tenant and the landlord, ensuring the protection of the interests of both parties.

Requirement: In Denmark, it is recommended to conclude a written rental contract for all types of housing rentals, regardless of the duration.

Registration: Although contract registration with state authorities is not mandatory, having a written agreement helps to prevent potential disputes.

 

Property purchase agreement

Transfer of ownership: The purchase agreement is the main document confirming the transfer of ownership from the seller to the buyer.

Requirement: The conclusion of a written purchase agreement is mandatory for all real estate transactions in Denmark.

Registration: After signing the agreement, the transaction must be registered in the land registry for official recognition of ownership rights.

 

In Denmark, a rental or purchase housing contract plays an important role in various administrative processes.

 

Residence permit application: When applying for a residence permit, it is necessary to confirm the availability of accommodation. The rental or purchase contract serves as proof of your address in Denmark.

 

Obtaining a tax number: To register in the Central Population Register (CPR) and receive a personal identification number, you must provide proof of address. The rental or purchase contract is the main document for this purpose.

 

Opening a bank account: Banks require proof of address when opening an account. The rental or purchase contract serves as such proof.

 

Doctor registration: After obtaining a CPR number, you can choose a general practitioner. To do this, you must confirm your place of residence by providing a rental or purchase contract.

 

Other cases

Employment: Some employers may request proof of address when hiring.

Education: Educational institutions may require proof of residence for enrollment.

Social services: Access to certain government services may require proof of address.

 

Thus, a rental or purchase housing contract is a key document for confirming your residence in Denmark and is necessary for various administrative processes.

Furnished housing

 

In Denmark, most apartments and houses rented out are offered unfurnished. This means that tenants need to furnish the place themselves. However, the market also features furnished options, especially in larger cities and for short-term rentals. Such offers are often aimed at students, expats, and professionals coming for temporary work.

 

Platforms for finding furnished housing:

 

Airbnb: Offers a wide range of furnished apartments for short-term and long-term rentals.

HousingAnywhere: Specializes in furnished apartments for students and young professionals.

 

Competition among tenants

 

The rental market in Denmark, especially in big cities, is characterized by high competition. The demand for quality housing exceeds the supply, leading to tough competition among tenants.

 

Tips for successful renting:

 

Prepare the necessary documents:

- Recommendations: Letters from previous landlords or employers.

- Proof of income: Income statements or employment contract.

- Copy of passport or ID.

 

Be ready to act quickly:

- Quick response: When a suitable option appears, contact the landlord immediately. Be prepared to view the property at a time convenient for the landlord.

 

Show responsibility:

- Punctuality: Arrive on time for meetings.

- Politeness: Respectful communication with the landlord.

 

Use various search channels:

- Online platforms: BoligPortal, Lejebolig, DBA.

- Social networks: Facebook groups dedicated to renting housing in Denmark.

- Personal contacts: Ask acquaintances or colleagues about possible options.

 

Consider alternative options:

- Shared housing: Renting a room in an apartment with other tenants.

- Suburbs: Housing in suburban areas may be less competitive and more affordable.

 

 

Advice

If you need housing quickly and have a limited budget, try looking for options directly from landlords. Use platforms like DBA and Facebook Marketplace, where you can find listings from private individuals.

If choice and legal protection are more important, contacting an agency may be the best option. Agencies can help you find housing faster, especially if you are in a big city with high rental demand.

Legal restrictions for foreigners

Foreign citizens without permanent residence in Denmark or who have not lived in the country for more than five years must obtain special permission from the Danish Ministry of Justice to purchase real estate. This regulation is aimed at preventing speculation and ensuring housing availability for local residents.

 

Searching for real estate

Online platforms: Websites like BoligPortal and Lejebolig offer a wide range of properties.

Real estate agencies: Consulting local agents can simplify the search process and provide professional support for the transaction.

 

Financial aspects

Property cost: Prices vary depending on the region. For example, in Copenhagen, the cost per square meter can reach 40,000–60,000 DKK, whereas in provincial towns, prices are significantly lower.

Additional costs:

- Property transfer tax: Comprises 0.6% of the property's value.

- Legal services: Payment for lawyer services accompanying the transaction usually amounts to 10,000–20,000 DKK.

- Registration fees: About 1,750 DKK for property rights registration.

 

Financing

Foreigners may find it difficult to obtain a mortgage loan from Danish banks without a steady income in Denmark or a long credit history. Therefore, many buyers prefer to use their own funds or approach banks in their country.

 

Taxes and maintenance

Annual property tax: The rate varies from 1.6% to 3.4% of the property's assessed value depending on the municipality.

Utility payments: Include charges for water, electricity, heating, and garbage disposal.

 

Features of purchasing land plots

Purchasing land in Denmark by foreigners also requires permission from the Ministry of Justice. Additionally, there are restrictions on the use of agricultural lands aimed at preserving their intended purpose.

 

Thus, purchasing real estate in Denmark is a process that requires a careful approach and compliance with local legal norms. It is recommended to engage professional lawyers and real estate agents to ensure the safety and legality of the transaction.

In Denmark, property insurance is not legally required. However, if you purchase property with a mortgage, banks usually require an insurance policy to protect their interests. Even in the absence of such a requirement, many property owners prefer to take out insurance to protect themselves from potential financial losses related to damage or loss of property.

 

It is recommended to carefully study the terms of various insurance companies to choose a policy that suits your needs and provides optimal protection for your property.

Structure of utility payments

 

Utilities in Denmark include payments for electricity, water, heating, gas, and garbage disposal. Often, the rent includes a fixed advance payment (called "a conto"), which covers estimated utility costs. At the end of the billing period, a recalculation is made based on actual consumption: if you consumed less than paid for, the difference will be refunded; if more, an additional payment will be required.

 

Payment of bills

 

Bills for utilities are usually issued monthly or quarterly. There are several ways to pay them:

 

Internet banking: the most common and convenient method, does not involve additional fees.

 

Automatic withdrawal: a service of automatic withdrawal provided by banks. It helps avoid missed payments and does not require additional costs.

 

Payment in banks or post offices: possible, but usually accompanied by a fee of 10-15 DKK per payment.

 

Choosing suppliers

 

The utilities market in Denmark is liberalized, allowing consumers to choose their electricity and gas suppliers. When choosing a supplier, it is recommended to compare the rates and conditions of different companies to find the best offer. You can use the official portal Elpris.dk, which provides information about electricity prices and suppliers.

 

Consumption accounting

 

Most homes have "smart" meters installed that automatically transmit data on electricity and water consumption. This allows for accurate billing and resource consumption control. Information about your consumption can be obtained through your supplier's online services or special portals like SparEnergi.dk.

 

Additional costs

 

In addition to basic utilities, there may be additional charges, such as for servicing common areas, waste removal, or sewage. These costs are usually included in the total utility payments and depend on the municipality and type of housing.

Living in apartment buildings in Denmark is regulated by a set of rules aimed at ensuring a comfortable and safe coexistence for residents. These rules can vary depending on the specific building or management company, but there are general norms to keep in mind.

General living rules

Compliance with silence: Most buildings have "quiet hours," usually from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM, during which noise should be minimized to not disturb neighbors.

Cleanliness and order: Residents are required to maintain cleanliness in both their apartments and common areas, such as stairwells, corridors, and laundry rooms.

Use of common areas: Common areas, including laundry rooms, basements, and yards, are intended for shared use. It's important to follow usage schedules and leave these areas clean after use.

Parking: If the building provides parking spaces, residents must use them according to the established rules and not occupy spaces intended for others.

Pets: Permission to keep pets depends on the specific rules of the building. In some cases, prior approval from the management company or neighbors is required.

Additional Aspects

Repair Work: Performing repair or construction work that generates noise is usually permitted only during specific hours, such as from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Security: Residents are obligated to ensure the security of the building by closing entrance doors and preventing unauthorized persons from entering the premises.

Residents' Meetings: In some buildings, regular residents' meetings are held to discuss common issues and make decisions regarding living arrangements.

For detailed information on living rules, it is recommended to familiarize yourself with the "house rules" provided at the time of moving in or available from the management company.

The Danish real estate market is known for its high-quality housing, stable prices, and active new construction, especially in major cities.

 

Volume of New Construction

Active Development: In recent years, Denmark has invested significant funds in new construction, especially in Copenhagen and Aarhus, to meet the growing demand for housing.

Focus on Sustainability: New projects often focus on environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, and the use of renewable materials.

Government Support: The government encourages the construction of affordable housing through various programs and subsidies.

 

Comfort of Offered Housing

High Standards: Danish housing is generally characterized by a high level of comfort, quality finishes, and modern amenities.

Ergonomic Design: Attention is paid to the functionality of space, natural lighting, and aesthetics.

Technological Innovation: Many properties are equipped with modern heating systems, ventilation, and smart technologies to enhance energy efficiency.

 

Prices by Region

Copenhagen:

- Rent: The average cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment is about 8,000–12,000 DKK per month.

- Purchase: The price per square meter can reach 40,000–60,000 DKK and higher in central areas.

Aarhus:

- Rent: Prices are slightly lower, averaging 6,000–9,000 DKK for a one-bedroom apartment.

- Purchase: The price per square meter ranges from 25,000 to 40,000 DKK.

Odense and Other Cities:

- Rent: From 5,000 DKK for a one-bedroom apartment.

- Purchase: The price per square meter is approximately 20,000–30,000 DKK.

Rural Areas:

- Rent and Purchase: Significantly more affordable prices, with the possibility to purchase a house for the price of an apartment in the city.

 

Types of Residential Real Estate

Apartments: Common in cities, available for both rent and purchase; options range from studios to multi-room apartments.

Private Houses: Detached houses with their own plot; popular among families, more often found in suburbs and rural areas.

Townhouses: Adjacent houses with shared walls; a compromise between an apartment and a private house.

Cooperative Housing: Housing in collective ownership, where a share in the cooperative is purchased; special purchase and sale conditions, including restrictions on resale price.

 

Supply and Demand Match

High Demand in Cities: Major cities experience a housing shortage due to population influx and limited construction space.

Rental Waitlists: Renters often face competition, especially when looking for affordable housing.

Efforts to Increase Supply:

- Construction of New Residential Areas: Projects to expand cities and create new residential zones.

- Renovation of Old Stock: Modernizing existing buildings to improve their comfort and energy efficiency.

Situation in Regions: In smaller cities and rural areas, housing supply generally exceeds demand, creating favorable conditions for renters and buyers.

 

Thus, the Danish real estate market offers a wide range of options for renting and purchasing housing; however, in major cities, demand often exceeds supply, affecting prices and availability. Immigrants are advised to carefully plan their housing search process, consider regional characteristics, and seek professional assistance if necessary.

Denmark is known for its high standard of living, which is reflected in the cost of living. Understanding the main expenses will help immigrants effectively plan their budget.

 

General Indicators

Cost of Living Index: According to Numbeo, Denmark ranks 25th in the world for cost of living, outpaced by countries such as Switzerland and Norway.

 

Housing

Rent:

- One-bedroom apartment in central Copenhagen: around 10,000–12,000 DKK per month.

- Outside the center: 7,000–9,000 DKK.

Purchase:

- Price per square meter in central Copenhagen: 40,000–60,000 DKK.

- Outside the center: 25,000–35,000 DKK.

 

Food

Approximate prices:

- Milk (1 liter): 10 DKK.

- Bread (500 g): 20 DKK.

- Eggs (12 pieces): 25 DKK.

- Chicken fillet (1 kg): 60 DKK.

- Apples (1 kg): 20 DKK.

 

Transport

Public transport:

- Single ticket: 24 DKK.

- Monthly pass: 400–600 DKK.

Car:

- Gasoline (1 liter): 14–15 DKK.

- Insurance and taxes: high compared to other countries.

 

Entertainment and Leisure

Restaurants:

- Meal in an inexpensive restaurant: 120–150 DKK.

- Three-course dinner in a mid-range restaurant: 500–700 DKK.

Fitness club: Monthly membership: 200–300 DKK.

Cinema: Ticket: 100–120 DKK.

 

Utilities

Basic services (electricity, heating, water, garbage disposal):

- For an 85 m² apartment: 1,500–2,000 DKK per month.

Internet: Unlimited plan: 200–300 DKK per month.

 

Healthcare

Public system: Provides free medical services for residents.

Private insurance: May cover additional services and reduce waiting time.

 

Education

Public schools: Free for residents.

International schools: Annual fee: 40,000–100,000 DKK.

 

Taxes

Income tax: Progressive scale, reaching up to 55% for high incomes.

VAT: 25% on most goods and services.

 

Thus, the cost of living in Denmark is above the European average, especially in major cities. However, a high standard of living, quality public services, and a stable economy compensate for these expenses.

Denmark is known for its advanced social security system, offering various support programs and subsidies for residents. Below are the key areas of government assistance available to immigrants under certain conditions.

 

Social Benefits

 

Unemployment benefit: To receive this, one must be a member of one of the state-recognized unemployment insurance funds for at least a year and meet certain requirements.

Social assistance: Available to those who are not eligible for other types of support and are in a difficult life situation. Requires permanent residence in Denmark and active job searching.

 

Educational Subsidies

 

State educational support: Students studying full-time can receive monthly grants and favorable loans. The amount of support depends on age, education level, and family status.

 

Housing Subsidies

 

Housing subsidy: Residents with low income can apply for a rent subsidy. The subsidy amount depends on income, family size, and rental cost.

 

Family Benefits

 

Child allowance: Paid to parents of children under 18. The size of the benefit depends on the child's age and is paid quarterly.

 

Medical Assistance

 

Public healthcare system: Provides free access to most medical services for residents, including general practitioner consultations, hospitalization, and specialized care.

 

Pension Provision

 

State pension: Available to those who have reached retirement age and have lived in Denmark for at least 3 years between the ages of 15 and 65. The pension amount depends on the duration of residence and other factors.

 

Business Support

 

Danish Growth Fund: Provides financing and guarantees for small and medium-sized enterprises, promoting their growth and innovation.

 

Conditions for Immigrants

 

Immigrants may qualify for state support programs under the following conditions:

Permanent residence: Must have a residence permit and have lived in Denmark for a certain period.

Meeting program requirements: Each program has its own criteria, such as income level, family status, or employment status.

Active participation: In some cases, active participation is required, for example, registration at an employment center or training.