Moving from UAE to Denmark (2026) | Shipping, Visas & Customs

Introduction: From Skyscrapers to Hygge

Relocating from the vibrant deserts of the UAE to the serene, design-forward landscapes of Denmark is a significant life change. Known for its work-life balance and progressive social policies, Denmark offers a unique European experience.

However, moving to Scandinavia requires navigating some of the strictest immigration and tax rules in Europe. Whether you are moving to Copenhagen, Aarhus, or Odense, this guide covers the essential steps—from the 2026 salary thresholds to clearing your household goods through Danish customs (Toldstyrelsen).

🚀 Key Takeaways (Quick Summary)

Visa Rule: In most cases, Denmark does not allow switching from a tourist stay to a work permit from within the country. Applications are normally submitted from the UAE.

Salary Threshold: The 2026 Pay Limit Scheme requires a minimum salary of DKK 552,000 (approx. AED 295,000).

Shipping: Sea freight takes 6–8 weeks. Most shipments enter via the ports of Copenhagen or Aarhus.

Car Warning: Registration tax is punitive (up to 150%). Unless it is a classic car or a specific EV model, sell it in Dubai.

1. Visas & Residence: The "SIRI" Process

Moving to Denmark as a non-EU citizen requires securing a residence and work permit before you arrive. The application is managed by the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI).

Key Permit Schemes (2026 Updates)

The Pay Limit Scheme: The most common route. You must have a signed job offer with a salary above DKK 552,000 per year (effective Jan 1, 2026).
The Supplementary Pay Limit Scheme: For jobs offering at least DKK 446,000. Note: These positions must have been advertised on the Danish Jobnet and EURES portal for at least 2 weeks prior.
The Positive List: If your profession is on the official shortage list (e.g., Engineers, IT specialists, Doctors), you can apply with a lower salary threshold.
Family Reunification: If you are joining a spouse who is already a resident.

⚠️ Critical Note: Do not cancel your UAE residence visa until your Danish permit is fully approved. The processing time can take 1–3 months.

🇩🇰 Denmark Reality Check for UAE Expats

Before you book your movers, it is vital to understand the structural differences between life in Dubai and Denmark.

Taxes vs. Services: You will trade 0% income tax for a marginal tax rate of 37%–53%. In exchange, you get free healthcare, education, and childcare subsidies.
The "MitID" System: Denmark is arguably the most digitized country in the world. You cannot open a bank account, read mail from the government (Digital Post), or pay bills without your MitID (digital ID).
Unionized Workplaces: 67% of Danes belong to a trade union. Even as an expat, your contract and benefits are likely regulated by a collective agreement.
The Darkness: Coming from the UAE sunshine, the winter darkness (sunset at 3:30 PM) is a genuine physiological shock. Budget for Vitamin D and light therapy lamps.

2. Shipping Your Household Goods

Once your permit is approved, you can plan your shipment. The two main options are sea freight and air freight.

Sea Freight (Recommended)

FCL (Full Container Load): Best for 2+ bedroom homes. You get a private 20ft or 40ft container.
- Transit: Jebel Ali to Copenhagen takes 30–40 days on the water.
LCL (Shared Container): Best for apartments or partial moves. You pay only for the volume (CBM) you use.
- Transit: Slightly longer (45–55 days) due to consolidation time.
- Learn more: LCL vs. FCL Shipping Guide

Port & Delivery Specifics

Most household shipments clear through Aarhus Port for inland Denmark or Copenhagen (CMP) for Zealand-based deliveries.

Important: Final-mile delivery in Copenhagen (especially Nørrebro, Vesterbro, and Indre By) often requires municipal parking permits, which your mover must pre-arrange to avoid delays or fines.

💡 Moving Tip: Not sure how much volume you have? Use our Volume Calculator to get an accurate CBM estimate in 2 minutes.

3. 2026 Moving Costs Breakdown

Shipping rates to Scandinavia are generally higher than to Southern Europe due to logistics handling.

Shipment Size	Service Type	Estimated Cost (AED)	Timeframe (Door-to-Door)
Small Move (10-15 CBM)	LCL (Shared)	AED 14,000 – 20,000	7 – 9 Weeks
2-Bed Home	20ft Container	AED 22,000 – 30,000	6 – 8 Weeks
3-4 Bed Villa	40ft Container	AED 32,000 – 42,000	6 – 8 Weeks

Note: Rates to Denmark fluctuate more than Southern Europe due to feeder vessel availability and winter surcharges (Q4–Q1). Booking early can reduce costs by 10–15%.

4. Customs & Taxes: The "Transfer of Residence" Relief

Denmark has high taxes, but you can import your household goods duty-free if you follow the rules strictly.

Requirements for Duty-Free Entry:

12-Month Rule: You have lived outside the EU (in the UAE) for at least 12 consecutive months.
6-Month Rule: You have owned and used the items for at least 6 months before moving. Brand new furniture will be taxed.
Registration: Danish customs typically require either an issued CPR Number or documented proof that your CPR registration appointment has been booked.

Required Documents:

Copy of Passport & Danish Residence Permit.
CPR Number documentation.
Danish Customs Form (Transfer of Residence Declaration).
Detailed packing list in English or Danish.

5. The Car Import Trap: Read Before Shipping

We strongly advise against shipping your car from the UAE to Denmark.

The Registration Tax (Registreringsafgift): This is a value-based tax.
- 25% tax on the first DKK 76,400 of value.
- 85% tax on value up to DKK 237,400.
- 150% tax on the remaining value.
Homologation: Gulf-spec cars often lack specific EU safety features (e.g., cold-climate emission standards), requiring modifications costing AED 10,000+.
The EV Exception: Electric vehicles do receive a tax deduction (approx DKK 161,300 in 2026), but the homologation issues for non-EU EVs often make it impractical.

Recommendation: Sell your car in the UAE and purchase a vehicle in Denmark to ensure full warranty coverage and compliance.

6. Moving with Pets

Denmark is pet-friendly, but they are strict about rabies control.

Microchip: Must be ISO 11784/11785 compliant.
Rabies Vaccination: Must be given after the microchip and at least 21 days before travel.
EU Health Certificate: Must be signed by a UAE government veterinarian within 10 days of arrival.
Banned Breeds: Denmark bans 13 breeds, including Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, and Tosa Inu. Do not attempt to import these breeds.

7. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Underestimating Delivery Access: Danish cities often have narrow streets, and many older apartments lack elevators. If you don't inform your mover, you will be hit with "Long Carry" or "External Elevator" fees.
Packing Alcohol: Denmark has high excise duties on alcohol. Do not include large wine collections in your main shipment unless you are prepared to pay significant taxes.
Forgetting "Hygge" Essentials: While you can buy everything there, bringing your personal items helps settle into the Danish concept of hygge (coziness) faster.
Not Booking Door-to-Door: Navigating Danish port bureaucracy in Danish language is difficult. Always use a full-service international mover.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the minimum salary to move to Denmark from UAE in 2026?

For the Pay Limit Scheme, your job offer must have an annual salary of at least DKK 552,000 (approx. AED 295,000). The Supplementary Pay Limit Scheme threshold is DKK 446,000.

How much does shipping a container from Dubai to Denmark cost?

A 20ft container (2-bedroom home) typically costs between AED 22,000 and AED 30,000. Shared (LCL) options for smaller moves start from AED 4,500.

Can I bring my car from Dubai to Denmark?

It is legally allowed but financially unwise. The Danish registration tax can be up to 150% of the car's value, plus strict EU homologation costs. Selling in the UAE is almost always cheaper.

How long does sea freight take to Denmark?

Port-to-port transit from Jebel Ali to Aarhus or Copenhagen is 30–40 days. The total door-to-door timeline is usually 6–8 weeks.

Ready for Your Nordic Adventure?

Moving to Denmark is not forgiving of paperwork mistakes. A single missing document can delay delivery by weeks and trigger storage charges of DKK 1,000+ per day.

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The Ultimate Guide to Moving from UAE to Denmark (2026)