Until 2015, Denmark was one of the few European countries that did not allow dual citizenship. That has changed, and both applicants for Danish citizenship and Danes abroad can retain their original citizenship.
What changed in 2015?
With Act No. 1496 of 23 December 2014, which entered into force on 1 September 2015, dual citizenship was allowed. This means:
- You no longer need to renounce your original citizenship to acquire Danish.
- Danes who become citizens of other countries do not automatically lose their Danish citizenship.
- Former Danes who lost citizenship due to acquiring another could apply to regain it before 1 September 2020.
What does it mean in practice?
As a dual citizen, you have full rights in both countries. You can:
- Hold passports from both countries.
- Vote in both countries (depending on local rules).
- Work and live freely in both countries.
- Receive consular assistance in third countries from both states.
When is it NOT possible?
Some countries do not accept dual citizenship and require renunciation of the original when acquiring another. Examples:
- China, Japan, India, Indonesia, Singapore — generally no dual citizenship.
- Some countries allow dual citizenship only under special conditions.
- Always check the other country’s rules before applying for Danish.
What about taxes?
Citizenship and tax liability are not the same. Tax liability depends on residence and sources of income, not on passport. Dual citizenship therefore does not automatically trigger double taxation, but can be relevant for inheritance and similar matters — seek separate advice from a tax adviser in the affected countries.
What about military service?
In principle, both countries can impose military service. In practice, dual citizens are often exempted if service was completed in the other country — but rules vary.
The path to Danish dual citizenship
You obtain Danish citizenship through naturalisation, where the Folketing adopts a citizenship-granting Act twice a year. Requirements include:
- 9 years of uninterrupted residence in Denmark.
- Passed the Citizenship Test.
- Passed Danish Language Test 3.
- Self-sufficiency and no public debt.
- Meeting the conduct requirement.
Read more about our work with Danish citizenship or contact us for a free assessment of your case.
Dreaming of Danish citizenship?
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