Denmark is one of the world’s safest countries. Crime rates are low – plus you get access to a comprehensive public healthcare system. Below you can read more about healthcare, safety, emergency services, police, insurance issues and how you get used to a different culture.

As an international student and resident in Denmark you will have access to the Danish healthcare system. The Danish healthcare system offers equal and universal access for all residents. In Denmark you will have access to free medical treatments with some exemptions, such as dental care and physiotherapy.

In accordance with the Danish Health Act, all international students staying in Denmark are entitled to emergency hospital care free of charge 'in the event of an accident, childbirth, acute illness or sudden aggravation of a chronic disease'. All other healthcare services must be paid for by you or your insurance.

If you are a international student and intend to stay in Denmark for more than 3 months then you must obtain a Danish residence permit and register with the Civil Registration System. Hence forward you are entitled to free medical treatment in Denmark.

Steps to register with the Civil Registration System

When registering with the Civil Registration System you must decide whether you want to be insured in Group 1 or Group 2.

Here is the difference between Group 1 and Group 2:

Care offered by General practitioners (GPs) and consultant in Group 1 is free of charge - and you will be asked to choose a GP who will refer you to a consultant when necessary. If you choose to be insured in Group 2 you will not be assigned a specific GP but will enjoy access to any GP or consultant on request. However, only a part of the costs for treatment in Group 2 is reimbursed. More than 98% of the Danish residents are insured in Group 1.

The Danish National Health Insurance Card

You will need the Health Insurance Card also known as the Yellow card as proof of identity at your doctor’s, at libraries and in many other contexts. Your insurance card will be sent to your Danish address. The card will show your name and address, your CPR number and the name and address of your doctor.

You can get a new Health Insurance Card free of charge, if:

Your Health Insurance Card is valid for as long as you are resident in Denmark and you do not change the information printed on the card. You will receive your Health Insurance Card in the mail within 4 weeks after the Public Registration Office has registered your payment.