Spousal reunification

Spousal reunification and family reunification

If you want your spouse, registered partner or cohabiting partner to join you in Denmark, you must apply for spousal reunification. The rules are among the strictest in Europe, and an application requires many documents from both you and your partner. We help you assess whether you meet the requirements and put together a complete application.

The main requirements

• Age: As a rule, you must both be at least 24 years old. You can apply when the younger partner is 23½
• Financial guarantee: The person in Denmark must provide a bank guarantee of a total of DKK 61,709.34 (2026). Part of the amount is reduced when the applicant passes Danish tests
• Housing: You must have independent housing of adequate size – no more than 2 people per room or at least 20 m² per person. The housing must not be in an area on the list of residential areas covered by the housing requirement
• Self-support: The person in Denmark must not have received benefits under the Active Social Policy Act or the Integration Act in the last 3 years
• Integration requirements: Together you must meet a number of integration-related conditions, e.g. regarding Danish tests, education and employment
• Danish tests after arrival: The applicant must pass a Danish test at A1 level no later than 6 months after the permit and at A2 level no later than 9 months after
• The applicant must usually have visited Denmark at least once

Fee and processing time

The fee for spousal reunification is DKK 8,490 The processing time is up to 10 months, so it is important that the application is complete from the start.

Why get help?

The requirements depend on your specific situation – for example, whether the person in Denmark is a Danish citizen, has permanent residence or holds a residence permit on another basis. We review your circumstances and tell you which requirements apply to you and what must be documented.

Frequently asked questions

How old do we have to be to apply for spousal reunification?

As a rule, both must be at least 24 years old, but you can submit the application when the younger partner has turned 23½.

How large is the financial guarantee in 2026?

A total of DKK 61,709.34. The amount is provided as a bank guarantee, and parts of it are reduced when the applicant passes Danish tests.

How long does an application for spousal reunification take?

Up to 10 months. A complete application from the start is the best way to avoid delays.

Last updated September 2026. Source: nyidanmark.dk – Spouse or cohabiting partner. Amounts and rules change regularly – we always check the current requirements in your case.