Denmark Health Insurance for Expats

International Health Insurance for Expats in Denmark

Long-term expats living in Denmark will likely qualify for public universal insurance Sygesikring. Expats who do not qualify, and those who want additional coverage for unprotected care, such as adult dental care, vision, or alternative therapies, should get international health insurance.

Those moving or traveling to Denmark will undoubtedly have many questions regarding how the Danish healthcare system works, as well as whether private health insurance is necessary.

This guide provides information about health insurance for foreigners in Denmark, as well as how the country’s healthcare system is structured. Read on to learn more, or click below to obtain a no-obligation, free quote.

Recommended International Health Insurance Plans for Expatriates Living in Denmark

The Healthcare System in Denmark: Explained for Expats

The standard of the healthcare system in Denmark is very high. The entire system is tax-funded and readily available to the public. Residents in Denmark pay an income tax and about 8% of that is allocated toward funding healthcare services.

Perhaps the most unique feature of the Danish system is that it is decentralized at the community level. As a result, central initiatives often face strong resistance, but at the same time, foster a consensus approach to such issues.

Additionally, since taxes set aside for healthcare are first received by the national government and then handed down to local municipality administration, the system is relatively unbiased compared to a country with having centralized healthcare administration.

Most of the Danish population speaks English, so expats should have no problem finding an English-speaking doctor.

Public Hospitals and Public Healthcare in Denmark

The entire Danish healthcare system, on an operational level, can be divided into two sectors: primary healthcare and hospitals. The primary healthcare sector deals with most healthcare issues and is available to all citizens. This sector is further divided into two parts.

• One part consists of general health treatments
• The other part deals with preventative care

All patients begin treatment at the primary healthcare level and should they need further, more specialized care, general practitioners refer them to treatment in the hospital sector.

In Danish hospitals, nurses and doctors dispense the drugs, not pharmacies. It is estimated that 90% of Danish citizens are satisfied with the quality of care they receive.

For a foreign national to participate in Denmark’s public healthcare system, he or she must obtain a CPR card, the Danish version of a social security number.

If this is not possible, due to length of stay or other factors, foreign nationals are recommended to obtain health insurance privately or through their employers (this is very typical).

Private Hospitals and Private Healthcare in Denmark

Due to the high quality of public healthcare facilities, there is a small presence of the private healthcare sector in Denmark. There are few private hospital providers, such as Danske Privathospitaler (DAPH), and they account for less than 3% of hospital beds.

Dental and vision doctor visits and treatments are not covered under the national health insurance scheme, hence obtaining health insurance from an employer or a private insurance provider is recommended.

Health Insurance Options for Expats in Denmark

Expatriates in Denmark can choose to register for Denmark’s universal health insurance Sygesikring or they can get a private health insurance plan to cover their medical expenses. Expats who don’t plan to live in Denmark for longer than 3 months will not qualify for free public healthcare.

Public Health Insurance in Denmark

Expats living in Denmark can qualify for free public healthcare if they become legal residents, register for the Danish healthcare system, and obtain a Civil Personal Registration (CPR) number. This government-funded public health insurance, known as Sygesikring, will cover the following:

• Primary care
• Specialist care
• Hospital care
• Emergency care
• Preventive care
• Mental health care
• Long-term care
• Dental care (for children under 18 only)

For expats to qualify for a Civil Personal Registration (CPR) number, thus qualifying for Denmark’s universal health insurance scheme, they must:

• Have a valid residence permit
• A confirmed address in Denmark
• Plan to stay in the country for more than 3 months

Private Health Insurance in Denmark

Expats living and/or working in Denmark can purchase a private health insurance plan if they don’t qualify for public insurance or if they want to secure additional coverage to complement the benefits of the public plan, such as dental and vision care.

Private insurance plans can be purchased from an international health insurance provider. The benefits of an international insurance plan include:

• Worldwide coverage
• Inpatient and day patient care
• Cancer care
• Mental health care
• Emergency ambulatory services and ER care
• Palliative care
• Home nursing
• Lap work and testing
• Prescription medications
• Emergency dental care
• Rehabilitation
• Much more!

An insurance broker can be an unparalleled resource as you research insurance providers, compare plans, and secure the right coverage plan for your needs and situation. If you’d like our advice, contact our insurance experts and receive unbiased, experienced support.

Top Private Insurance Plans for Expats in Denmark

The top private health insurance plans in Denmark for expats and digital nomads are offered by providers William Russell, IMG, GeoBlue, Passport Card, and VUMI. These international health insurance providers offer competitive and comprehensive health insurance with a range of affordable premiums.

To read our full article on the 9 best international health insurance providers for expats in Denmark, take the link.

William Russell

William Russell is a top provider of global health packages catering to expat individuals, digital nomads, families, and students. Those living in Denmark will appreciate William Russell’s 6 zones of coverage that grant you the control to customize your premiums and where you get coverage.

The 4 international medical plans offered for expats are:

• Bronze
• SilverLite
• Silver
• Gold

IMG

IMG Global offers worldwide coverage through their expat international health insurance plans so you’re covered wherever you travel. 4 tiers of coverage allow you to select $1,000,000 in total coverage per individual up to $8,000,000. IMG plans cover medical evacuation and prescription drugs.

IMG Global Health’s international health insurance plans available are:

• Bronze
• Silver
• Gold
• Platinum

GeoBlue

GeoBlue’s international network of providers spans more than 180 countries and territories and includes more than 1.7 million providers. GeoBlue offers the Xplorer Essential and the Xplorer Premier expat health insurance plans. These plans are favorites for U.S. expats.

Their exclusive deals for U.S. citizens make getting coverage within the U.S. more affordable than many other providers.

• Xplorer Premier comes with comprehensive medical benefits internationally, including the US.
• Xplorer Essential offers US coverage as an add-on.

DavidShield/Passport Card

DavidShield, also known as Passport Card, sells expat health insurance in Denmark with annual benefit limits ranging from USD $2.5 - $5 million. Passport Card plans in Denmark are comprehensive with coverage for dental, maternity, inpatient, outpatient, and emergency evacuation and repatriation.

Passport Card’s international health insurance plans available are:

• A global plan excluding the U.S.
• A Relocation worldwide plan
• An Insurance in Israel plan

VUMI

VIP Universal Medical Insurance Group (VUMI) sells international health, life, and travel insurance policies for individuals and corporations. VUMI is well-known for its high-quality expat maternity insurance, which is included in three of its Global Flex plans. VUMI has 35 years in the industry.

VUMI's international health insurance plans are:

• Basic
• Standard
• Superior
• Ultra
• Total

Facts to Consider When Picking Insurance in Denmark

Expats who are choosing which insurance plan to use in Denmark should consider whether or not they’ll qualify for public insurance if their specific health needs or prescriptions are covered by any given plan and several other factors.

• Public Healthcare Coverage
  Denmark has a robust public healthcare system ("Sygesikring") that is accessible to most residents and expats. It covers most medical needs. If you can’t qualify, a private insurance plan may be required. Expats may also choose to get one for additional benefits or faster access to treatment.
• Specific Coverage Needs
  Expats should assess if they require private insurance for specific treatments like dental care, physiotherapy, or private hospital stays, as these may not be fully covered by the public system.
• Prescription Drug Costs
  Consider the cost of prescription medications, as some may not be fully covered by public health insurance. If there’s a particular brand you require, make sure to get insurance that covers it.
• Expat Status
  If you are an expat and know you will travel outside of Denmark, an international health insurance plan might be necessary to ensure coverage for medical needs outside of the country.
• Cost Comparison
  Compare prices across different insurance providers, considering the cost of premiums and potential out-of-pocket expenses.
• Waiting Times
  If you require access to treatment quickly, a private insurance plan could offer shorter waiting times compared to the public system.
• Provider Network
  Check which healthcare providers are included in the insurance network before picking a plan so you can make sure your preferred doctors and hospitals are covered.
• Language Support
  If English is your primary language, consider whether your selected insurance company offers services in English or not.

Denmark Health and Safety Travel Advice for Visitors

Visitors and foreigners in Denmark should be up to date on their vaccinations, know to dial 112 in an emergency, pack all the prescriptions they’ll need for their stay, follow the cycling traffic rules, and more tips to stay safe and healthy.

Health Tips

• Healthcare Access: Non-EU travelers should have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses.
• Vaccinations: No mandatory vaccinations are required to enter Denmark. Ensure routine vaccinations, such as MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) and DPT (diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus), are up to date.
• Prescription Medications: Bring any prescription medications you need in their original packaging, along with a copy of your prescription. Pharmacies (Apotek) are widely available and offer advice and over-the-counter medications.
• Water and Food Safety: Tap water is safe to drink throughout Denmark. Food hygiene standards are high, and the risk of foodborne illness is minimal.
• Emergency Numbers: Dial 112 for emergencies (ambulance, fire, or police).

Safety Tips

• General Safety: Denmark is one of the safest countries in the world with low crime rates. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in busy areas or tourist spots. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in Copenhagen or at major events.
• Cycling Safety: Denmark is a bike-friendly country, and cycling is a popular mode of transportation. Follow local traffic rules, use designated bike lanes, and wear a helmet for safety.
• Weather Preparedness: Weather can be unpredictable, especially in coastal areas. Pack appropriately for changing conditions, especially if visiting in the winter months.
• Public Transportation: Public transportation is reliable and safe. Keep tickets handy to avoid fines during random inspections.
• Nature and Outdoor Activities: If exploring nature, particularly coastal or forested areas, be aware of potential risks such as high tides or slippery trails. Check weather updates and follow local guidelines for activities like hiking or sailing.

Travel Tips

• Travel Insurance: Ensure your travel insurance covers health emergencies, theft, and cancellations.
• Local Customs and Etiquette: Danes value politeness and personal space. Many locals speak English, but learning a few Danish phrases is appreciated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an EHIC card in Denmark?

Temporary visitors to Denmark from the EU/EEA/Switzerland can receive discounted or free healthcare through their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), as per the agreement between their country and Denmark. There are certain healthcare costs that EHIC doesn’t cover.

How do I register for public healthcare in Denmark?

To register for public healthcare in Denmark, you first must register for a CPR number (Danish ID) at your local Citizen Service Center (Borgerservice) after receiving a residence permit. Next, you can choose a general practitioner. Lastly, you will receive a yellow health card ("Sundhedskort").

Should I get private health insurance in Denmark?

Private health insurance is recommended for expats waiting for their CPR number, who want to access private hospitals or clinics for shorter wait times, and who seek coverage of services not included in the public system, such as adult dental care, vision, or alternative therapies.

Do I need health insurance in Denmark as an expat?

Health insurance is essential in Denmark for expatriates. Residents and long-term expats are covered under the public healthcare system, and financed through taxes. Short-term stays and non-EU citizens who are applying for a residence permit must get private health insurance.

Compare Denmark Quotes and Plans Now!

Our Pacific Prime brokerage team can help expats secure comprehensive expatriate health insurance, vision, and dental plans for foreign nationals in Denmark. Not only can we find you affordable rates, but we have access to plans with the highest levels of coverage.

If you are not able to obtain public healthcare, we can help you secure globally portable plans with guaranteed renewability for life, giving you the assurance that no matter what happens, you will always have the coverage that you need.

Our Denmark expat health insurance plans can be tailored to meet your exact requirements, and in many cases, we are able to offer Denmark international health insurance policies with no deductibles or excesses.

In addition to this, the policies we offer can include a number of additional benefits, such as coverage for outpatient treatment, dental care, maternity protection, complementary medicines, specialist consultations, alternative therapies, and emergency evacuation.

All of these give you the assurance that no matter what happens and where you are in the world, you will always have the protection that you need. Contact us today for a free quote and insurance consultation!

Take the button below to compare plans now!

Recommended Reads:

• The Best International Insurance Companies
• International Family Health Insurance Plans
• Maternity Insurance: Pregnancy while Living Abroad
• International Health Insurance for Pre-Existing Conditions