Denmark Restricts Family Entry for Students in Non-Approved Programs from May 2, 2025

Effective May 2, 2025, Denmark has enforced stricter immigration rules targeting third-country students enrolled in non-approved higher education programs. According to the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI), these students will no longer be allowed to bring accompanying family members to Denmark.

This measure is part of Denmark’s broader effort to tighten migration control and ensure that residence permits are issued only to those genuinely pursuing education in the country.

Exemptions for Students Who Applied Before May 2

SIRI clarified that students who submitted residence permit applications or received approval before May 2, 2025, under non-approved programs, will not be affected by these new restrictions. They will:

• Remain eligible for a limited work permit
• Receive a six-month job search stay
• Be allowed to bring accompanying family members
• Retain the right to apply for permit extensions under previous rules

Background and Enforcement

Denmark has seen an increase in foreign student arrivals, but reports have highlighted concerns—especially regarding students from countries like Nepal—being employed in low-wage or exploitative conditions. Additionally, some students have allegedly misused the system to stay irregularly in the EU. These issues prompted the authorities to introduce the new restrictions.a