Do I need to pay taxes in Denmark?

With an extensive public service, income tax rates in Denmark are among the highest in the world. The Danish welfare state is, among other things, based on the concept of citizens having equal access to the different services paid for by taxes:

• Everyone must be able to get help in situations, such as unemployment or illness.
• Everyone must be able to get help in situations, such as unemployment or illness.
• All children must attend school and have the possibility of completing an education.
• All citizens must have access to information and guidance (for example from libraries and media).
• The public sector provides numerous services.
• All children must attend school and have the possibility of completing an education.
• All citizens must have access to information and guidance (for example from libraries and media).
•  The public sector provides numerous services.

The tax system is progressive – the more you earn, the higher taxes you pay. All residents and everyone earning a salary in Denmark are liable for Danish taxation.

As a rule you must pay tax on all your earnings in Denmark. The amount of tax will depend on your annual income and tax liability.

You do not have to pay tax on any savings or assets that you bring with you from abroad when moving to Denmark, but you will be taxed on interest income and/or dividends.

If Denmark has a double taxation agreement with the country you are leaving, your Danish tax may be reduced.

What is a tax card and how do I get it?

If you have a salary income in Denmark you must apply for a tax card from your local tax office. A tax card is an official document that indicates how much tax you have to pay.

Once you have received your Civil Personal Registration number (CPR number) you must contact SKAT (Danish Tax and Customs Administration) and inform them how much you expect to earn in the calendar year.

In order to obtain your tax card you must complete a special application form called “Application for tax deduction for Faroese, Greenlandic or international students or business apprentice in Denmark (04.062)”.
You can fill out the electronic form here.

The completed form must be submitted electronically to the tax office. The Danish Tax and Customs Administration will then issue a tax card.

Your employer will obtain your tax card digitally from SKAT. Your income tax is then automatically deducted at source from your wages by your employer before you receive your pay.

Contact SKAT for further information on this subject on: (+45) 72 22 27 80 or find the address of your nearest tax office at www.skat.dk

Useful links
The Danish Tax and Customs Administration: https://skat.dk/en-us/individuals