New to denmark

Velkommen til Danmark! (Welcome to Denmark!)

As a newcomer to Denmark, you might find it helpful to know a few things to make your transition smoother. Here are some tips and information to get you started:

Language:

• Danish is the official language, but many Danes speak English fluently, especially among the younger population.
• You can also find English-speaking staff in most shops, restaurants, and public services.
• If you're not familiar with Danish, consider taking a language course to improve your skills.

Culture:

• Denmark is known for its social welfare system, high standard of living, and strong social cohesion.
• Danes value equality, simplicity, and community, which is reflected in their daily lives.
• Be prepared for a more laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, with a strong emphasis on work-life balance.

Practicalities:

• Register with the Danish National Register (CPR) as soon as possible to get a CPR number, which is essential for many everyday tasks.
• Find a place to live: Denmark has a high demand for housing, so be prepared to act quickly when you find a suitable apartment or house.
• Get a Danish ID card (Personnummerkort) to use as identification.
• Open a Danish bank account to manage your finances.

Healthcare:

• Denmark has a public healthcare system, and you'll need to register with a general practitioner (GP) to access healthcare services.
• You may need to pay a small fee for some medical services, but most treatments are covered by the public system.

Job and Education:

• If you're moving to Denmark for work, your employer will likely help you with the necessary paperwork and registration.
• If you're studying in Denmark, you'll need to apply for a residence permit and register with the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI).

Food and Drink:

• Try some traditional Danish cuisine like smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches), flæskesteg (roast pork), and kanelsnurrer (cinnamon swirls).
• Don't forget to try some Danish pastries, like wienerbrød (a Danish version of a croissant) and kanelsnurrer (cinnamon swirls).
• Coffee culture is big in Denmark, so be prepared to indulge in a good cup of coffee at a café or bakery.

Getting Around:

• Denmark has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trains, and metro lines.
• You can buy a rechargeable public transportation card (Rejsekort) to make traveling easier.
• Cycling is also a popular mode of transportation in Denmark, with many bike lanes and bike-friendly roads.

Community:

• Join online expat groups or forums to connect with other expats and get advice on living in Denmark.
• Attend local events and festivals to meet new people and experience Danish culture.
• Consider joining a language exchange or cultural club to meet like-minded individuals.

Remember, Denmark is a wonderful country with a high standard of living, but it can take some time to adjust to the culture and way of life. Be patient, stay curious, and enjoy your new adventure in Denmark!