Denmark

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 112 for police, ambulance, and fire emergencies in both Denmark and the Faroe Islands.

Non-Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 114 to reach the police in either Denmark or the Faroe Islands. Use this number if you want to report a crime, but do not require immediate police assistance.
• If 114 does not work in the Faroe Islands, you can also call +298 351-448.

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad. Denmark has been subject to terrorist incidents in the past, and terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Denmark. Denmark’s Center for Terror Analysis categorizes the current threat as “significant,” meaning there is a known threat, as well as capability, intent, and planning.

European governments, including Denmark, are taking action to guard against terrorist attacks, but all European countries remain potentially vulnerable to such attacks.  Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of religious significance
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, commercial flights)
• For more information, review our Terrorism page.

Demonstrations

While civil disorder in Denmark is rare, demonstrations may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.  
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories. 
• Security messages about demonstrations can be found on the U.S. Embassy in Denmark’s website.

Crime

Denmark has a low crime rate and violent crime is rare. Most crimes are crimes of opportunity, such as pickpocketing and the theft of personal property such as bicycles or items from vehicles or homes.

• Pickpocketing and petty theft are common in and around major tourist attractions. This is also common at restaurants, coffee shops, amusement parks, museums, bars, airports, and on public transportation.
• Violent crimes can occur. They include homicides and sexual assaults.
• Most violent crimes occur in Denmark’s larger cities, such as Copenhagen. Organized crime groups have also committed armed crimes against each other.
• Breakfast rooms and lobbies at hotels attract well-dressed thieves. They blend in with other guests easily. They target unattended purses and briefcases from tourists and business travelers.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams. If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  Financial and internet romance scams are common in Denmark. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a “romantic” relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 112.

• Review our information for Victims of Crime.  U.S. citizen victims of crime, including sexual assault, should first contact local police. Crime victims in Denmark and the Faroe Islands may contact the U.S. Embassy at +45 3341-7100 after they have contacted local authorities.

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. (Note: We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.)
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States in cases of destitution.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Victim compensation program

Denmark has a program to provide financial compensation to victims who suffer serious injuries due to crime.

• You must file a police report within 72 hours.
• Local police or Denmark’s Criminal Injuries Compensation Board can provide the forms to file for compensation.
• The expected case processing time can be found in the acknowledgment letter that the board sends to you or your representative when the board has received the application for compensation and the criminal case from the police.
• More information about compensation payments to victims of serious crime is available from Denmark’s Criminal Injuries Compensation Board.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance by dialing +45-3341-7100.  Domestic violence victims are also encouraged to file a police report with local police by dailing 112.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• Drone use is permitted, with certain restrictions, in both Denmark and the Faroe Islands. For specific guidance, review the information on drone usage published by Visit Denmark and Visit Faroe Islands.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry in Denmark is well regulated.

• Rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced.
• Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs.
• Trained and certified staff are usually there to help with organized activities.
• If you get injured, you can usually get medical help locally.
• In rural areas, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and help.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

Your U.S. passport won’t help you avoid arrest or prosecution if you break the law in Denmark or the Faroe Islands.

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law.  Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a practice a profession in Denmark or the Faroe Islands, you must seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Arrest notification

• Denmark and the Faroe Islands maintain strong privacy laws, and officials will not notify the U.S. Embassy of your arrest without your consent. If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately.

Drugs, weapons, and alcohol

• Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict. Convicted offenders receive long jail sentences and significant fines.
• Driving under the influence may lead to confiscation of your driver’s license and immediate detention.
• Possession of weapons of any kind, including pocketknives and pepper spray, may result in criminal penalties.

Compulsory military service in Denmark

• Effective July 1, 2025, all citizens over 18 years of age and resident in Denmark must participate in a military draft. Please review the Danish Ministry of Defense Personnel Agency’s page on military service for additional information.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods can be found in many destinations, including Denmark.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Denmark. 
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

Danish law prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, psychological, sociological, intellectual, or mental disabilities.

• Danish law mandates access to buildings, education, information, and communications for persons with disabilities.
• Accessibility is common in public transportation, lodging, communication, and general infrastructure.  Acceptance of disabilities is widespread.
• Public transportation can accommodate persons with disabilities, but many buildings and outdoor sites are not easily accessible for the disabled.
• Review Visit Denmark’s page about accessible travel in Denmark.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review the Danish Agency for Higher Education and Science’s page on studying in Denmark.
• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers

• Review our information for Women Travelers.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Denmark Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 112 for emergency medical services in Denmark and the Faroe Islands. Help in English is generally available.
• For non-life-threatening medical emergencies, call the regional medical helpline before going to an emergency room. English-speaking doctors and nurses are generally available to assess your condition and, if necessary, arrange an appointment at an emergency room or clinic. If you go directly to an emergency room without calling first, you may be turned away.
• Regional medical helpline:
  • Greater Copenhagen and Bornholm: 1813
  • Other Areas of Zealand: 1818
  • North Jutland: +45 7015-0300
  • Central Jutland: +45 7011-3131
  • South Jutland and Funen: +45 7011-0707
  • Faroe Islands: +298 1870

Ambulance services

• Ambulance services are widely available in Denmark but are more limited in the Faroe Islands.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad. Many U.S. plans do not.  The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.

• Medical care is not free in Denmark. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Denmark.
• The Danish healthcare system provides emergency medical care; however, you may be billed for services after they are rendered.
• Most hospitals and healthcare providers do not accept U.S. health insurance. You will generally need to pay your medical expenses yourself and seek reimbursement from your insurance provider.
• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

• Health facilities are available throughout Denmark and the Faroe Islands.
• The U.S. Embassy maintains a page about medical care and resources in Denmark and the Faroe Islands.  Note: We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Prescription medications

If traveling with prescription medication to Denmark or the Faroe Islands, review the Danish Medicines Agency’s guidance on importing medications and the Faroese Pharmacy Service's guidance on importing medications before you travel. Always carry prescription medications in their original packaging, along with a copy of your prescription or a letter from your prescribing physician.

• Denmark and the Faroe Islands strictly regulate pharmaceuticals, including certain over-the-counter medications such as decongestants.
• Danish and Faroese physicians may not prescribe the same medications or prescribe them in the same quantities or dosages as physicians in the United States.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Purchase medications only with the guidance of a medical professional and from trusted pharmacies or other reputable vendors.  Medications obtained from other sources may be ineffective, have the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients.
• The Danish and Faroese word for pharmacy is Apotek. Pharmacies in Denmark and the Faroe Islands have limited hours and are generally closed on holidays and weekends. You may need to travel significant distances to find a pharmacy open at night or on weekends or holidays.  Most medicines are only sold at a pharmacy.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulate importation of medications into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.  The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

• Surrogacy is strictly regulated in Denmark. Commercial surrogacy is illegal, but altruistic (unpaid) surrogacy is permitted under certain conditions, and Danish law recognizes parentage in qualifying surrogacy arrangements. For additional information, visit Denmark’s Agency of Family Law’s web page on surrogacy agreements.
• Surrogacy in the Faroe Islands is not legal.
• If you are considering traveling to Denmark or the Faroe Islands to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water is generally safe to drink and for use in cooking.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe.  Ensure the seal is intact.

Air quality

Air pollution levels in Denmark and the Faroe Islands are low.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. The AERONET (AErosol RObotic NETwork) program uses historical data and global pollution modeling to generate a forecast of expected air quality in Denmark.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

Urban roads in Denmark are generally comparable to those in the United States. Secondary and rural roads are often narrower, particularly on smaller islands, but are generally well maintained and paved. Current information about traffic and road conditions in Denmark is available from the Danish Road Directorate. For additional information and tips about getting around in Denmark, review Visit Denmark’s page on Driving Regulations in Denmark.

• Many urban streets have traffic lanes reserved for public transport only.
• Bicycles are widely used in Denmark. Bike lanes are common.
• Bicycles in established bike lanes generally have the right-of-way and pedestrians are expected to yield unless in an established crosswalk.

Most of the Faroe Islands are interconnected by roads, tunnels, and ferries. On the large islands, even small settlements are generally accessible by road. Landsverk, the Faroese national authority responsible for public buildings and roads, publishes alerts about current issues affecting road conditions and maintains an extensive network of traffic cameras. For additional information and tips about getting around in the Faroe Islands, review Visit Faroe Islands’ page on Getting Around in the Faroes.

Traffic laws

Denmark

Driver's Licenses: Visitors may drive with a valid U.S. state driver’s license. Persons establishing habitual residence in Denmark may generally use a non-EU/EEA driver’s license for up to 180 days after establishing residence. For additional information, visit the Danish Road Traffic Authority’s page on using foreign driver’s licenses in Denmark.

Minimum Driving Age: The minimum driving age is generally 18.  Limited exceptions allow certain 17-year-olds holding a Danish Category B driver’s license to drive under specified conditions.

Speed Limits: Unless otherwise posted, speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on other roads, and 130 km/h on motorways.

Seat Belts and Child Restraints: Seat belts are mandatory in vehicles equipped with them. Children under 135 centimeters must use an approved child restraint appropriate for their height and weight.  Rear-facing child seats may not be used in front of an active front airbag.

Headlights: Headlights or approved daytime running lights are required at all times.

Winter Tires: Denmark requires drivers equip their vehicles with tires suitable for current and expected road conditions. Denmark does not require winter tires during a specific season or time of year, and the requirement is tied to current weather conditions. Driving on obviously unsuitable tires in snow, slush, ice, or frost may result in a fine and an order not to continue driving. For additional information, review the Danish Road Traffic Authority’s page on tire requirements.

Alcohol and Drugs: Driving with a blood alcohol concentration exceeding 0.05 percent may result in severe penalties. For drivers who obtained their Category B licenses within the last three years, the limit is 0.02 percent. Driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs is prohibited regardless of blood alcohol concentration.  These laws also apply to bicycles, horse-drawn vehicles, and horses.

Mobile Phones: Using a hand-held mobile phone or other hand-held device while driving is prohibited.

Traffic Signals: Do not turn right on red unless a traffic signal or sign permits it.

Faroe Islands

Driver's Licenses:  Visitors may drive with a valid U.S. state driver’s license. Persons establishing habitual residence in the Faroe Islands may generally continue using a non-EU/EEA driver’s license for up to 180 days after establishing residence. For additional information about obtaining a Faroese driver’s license, visit Akstovan’s (Faroe Islands’ Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) page on exchanging foreign driver’s licenses.

Minimum Driving Age: The minimum driving age for a passenger vehicle is 18. Drivers licensed at a younger age in another jurisdiction are not exempt from this requirement.

Speed Limits: Unless otherwise posted, speed limits are generally 50 km/h in built-up areas and 80 km/h outside built-up areas. There are no motorways in the Faroe Islands.

Seat Belts and Child Restraints: Seat belts are mandatory when available. Children under 135 centimeters must use an approved child restraint appropriate for their height and weight. Rear-facing child seats may not be used in front of an active airbag.

Headlights: Headlights or approved daytime running lights are required at all times.

Winter Tires: From December 1 through April 1, summer tires may not be used on icy roads without chains. Winter or studded tires used during this period must have at least 3 millimeters of tread. Studded tires may be used from October 16 through May 14.

Alcohol and Drugs: Driving with a blood-alcohol concentration exceeding 0.02percent or while impaired by alcohol or drugs is a serious offense. These laws also apply to bicycles, horse-drawn vehicles, and horses.

Mobile Phones: Using a hand-held mobile phone or other hand-held device while driving is prohibited.

Traffic Signals: Do not turn right on red unless a traffic signal or sign permits it.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Taxis and ride share apps are common and generally considered safe in Denmark.

Public and commercial transportation

Denmark has an extensive and efficient public transportation system. Trains, buses, and ferries connect Copenhagen with other major cities and islands in Denmark and with Norway, Sweden, Poland, and Germany.

• Public transportation in Denmark is the recommended way to travel within larger cities.
• The bus, train, and subway systems are generally considered safe.  Cyclists are common on many roads, especially in urban areas.
• Follow all ticket validation and check-in procedures on public transportation.  Children, pets, and bicycles may require tickets.  Fines are steep, and fare enforcement is rigorous.
• Taxis are more expensive than in major U.S. cities.
• Parking in cities is generally expensive.
• The bus, train, and subway systems are considered safe. Cyclists are common on many roads, especially in urban areas.  For more information about driver’s licenses and other regulatory matters, visit Denmark’s Road Traffic Authority. You can obtain information about current traffic levels from Denmark’s Road Directorate.
• Review Visit Denmark’s page on using public transportation and our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Denmark’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Denmark should check the following:

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

Denmark has a mild maritime climate with cool summers, mild winters, and rain year-round.  The Faroe Islands have a similar climate but with cooler temperatures year-round, and more significant rainfall and wind. The Danish Meteorological Institute (DMI) provides weather forecasts and severe weather alerts for Denmark and the Faroe Islands.  The Faroese Meteorological Office provides similar information for the Faroe Islands.  Neither Denmark nor the Faroe Islands experience extreme natural disasters, but there are some weather events of note.

Storms and high winds

Strong storms are common October through February and can cause coastal flooding, transportation disruptions, and building damage.  Monitor updates from DMI and the Faroese Meteorological Office and avoid unnecessary travel during high winds.

Heavy rainfall and flooding

Intense rainfall can lead to localized flooding throughout the year.  Avoid driving through flooded areas.

Snow and ice

Snow and ice occasionally disrupt transportation and increase accident risk.  This is most common between December and February.  Drive and walk carefully during icy conditions.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs’ benefits.

Embassies and consulates