New study residence scheme for foreign nationals who want to combine career and a master’s degree

In May 2025 the Danish Parliament adopted rules on a new study residence scheme. This allows foreign nationals to obtain a residence permit to complete a master’s degree on a Danish higher education institution.

From knowledge to practice

The master’s degree programme for working professionals aim to strengthen the connection between higher education studies on universities and the need of the Danish labour market. The programme makes it possible for students to continue their studies at master’s level while they gain relevant work experience. With the new master’s degree programme the students will be encouraged to convert their professional knowledge into practice. The master’s degree programme also aims to ensure a smooth transition from the studies to the labour market.

Part-time employment and part-time studies

As residence from a third-country it is prerequisite for admission to one of the master’s degree programmes for working professionals that you have entered into a valid employment agreement with a public or private employer for current and relevant part-time employment. The study prgramme is also part-time. The employment must correspond to an average of up to 112.5 hours per month.

• Are you interested and want to know more about the new master’s degree programme for working professionals? Then find much more information at New to Denmark
• If you want to read the adopted bill you can find it here on the Danish Parliament's website (only in Danish)