Moving to Copenhagen

Moving to a new country can be both exciting and challenging. UCPH and DTU offers a range of services to help international professionals and their families settle in smoothly.

We have gathered three key resources to support your transition:

  • International Staff Mobility (ISM) – University of Copenhagen: Personalized guidance for international researchers and staff, including help with visas, housing, family support, and integration into Danish society.

  • DTU – Moving to Denmark: Comprehensive relocation support for international employees at DTU, including pre-arrival webinars, housing help, and family services.

  • International House Copenhagen (IHC): A one-stop service center offering free assistance with registration, job search, and social integration for newcomers in the Greater Copenhagen area.

Explore these links to find the support you need for a smooth start at UCPH and DTU.

 

International Staff Mobility (ISM) is a department within the Human Resources division of the University of Copenhagen. It provides comprehensive support and guidance to international researchers, academic staff, and PhD fellows who are relocating to and settling in Denmark.

Key Services Offered by ISM:

  • Pre-arrival and Arrival Support:

    • Assistance with visa and residence/work permits (especially for non-EU citizens).
    • Guidance on housing, banking, insurance, and tax registration.
    • Help with obtaining a CPR number, MitID, and other essential registrations.

  • Integration and Daily Life:

    • Information on healthcare, childcare, and schooling.
    • Support for learning Danish language and culture.
    • Access to social and cultural events, including guided tours and welcome meetings.

  • Dual Career and Family Support:

    • Services for accompanying spouses/partners, including career guidance and networking opportunities.
    • Help with family relocation and integration into Danish society.

  • Specialized Support for Guest Researchers and Visiting Scholars:

    • Tailored assistance for short- and long-term stays.
    • Information on taxation, insurance, and legal requirements.
    • Invitations to monthly info meetings and social events.

ISM acts as a central point of contact to ensure a smooth transition for international staff and their families, allowing them to focus on their academic work while ISM handles practical matters.

 

 

DTU provides a comprehensive relocation service to help international employees and their families settle in Denmark smoothly. This support is coordinated by Corporate HR and includes assistance before arrival, upon arrival, and during your stay.

Before Arrival

  • Personal HR Consultant: Each international employee is assigned an HR consultant for personalized guidance.
  • Webinars: Monthly sessions to manage expectations and prepare for life in Denmark.
  • Work and Residence Permits: DTU initiates and supports the application process for employees and accompanying family members.
  • Housing: The DTU Housing Foundation helps with finding accommodation; limited guest housing is also available.
  • Family Support: Guidance on childcare, schools, and adjusting to Danish life for children.
  • Pension and Holiday: Information on pension schemes and the Danish holiday system 

Upon Arrival

  • CPR Number and Health Insurance: Help with registration and access to the Danish healthcare system.
  • Taxation: Guidance on Danish tax schemes, including the Researcher Tax Scheme.
  • Banking and Digital ID: Assistance with setting up a bank account, NemKonto, MitID, and e-Boks.
  • Insurance: Advice on necessary private insurance beyond employer coverage.
  • Introduction Programme: A mandatory orientation for international staff and PhD students covering employment terms, taxes, and university life

 

Social and Family Integration

  • Spouse and Partner Support: Social and professional support for accompanying partners.
  • Networking and Social Life: Opportunities to build a network and engage in DTU’s community

 

 

International House Copenhagen (IHC) is a public service center designed to help international citizens settle smoothly in Copenhagen and surrounding municipalities. It serves as a one-point entry for essential registration services, career support, and social integration.

Key Services Provided:

  • Registration Services (via ICS East):

    • CPR number (civil registration)
    • EU residence document (via SIRI)
    • Health card
    • MitID (Danish digital ID)
    • Tax card and tax number
    • U2 form (for unemployment benefits from abroad)

  • Career and Job Support:

    • Access to career programmes, job search workshops, and networking events tailored for international professionals.

  • Social and Cultural Integration:

    • A calendar of events and seminars to help newcomers understand Danish society and build a social network.
    • Practical guides and tips for adjusting to life in Denmark.

  • Free of Charge:

    • All services offered at IHC are free for international citizens.

  • Support for All Backgrounds:

    • Services are available whether you are an EU/EEA citizen, a non-EU citizen, or returning to Denmark after time abroad.