Understanding the Danish Student Visa
A Danish student visa, officially known as the Denmark Student Residence Permit (ST1), is an authorization that allows international students to enter and study in Denmark. This permit is mandatory for non-EU/EEA students planning to pursue education in Danish institutions for periods longer than three months.
Who Needs a Danish Student Visa?
Nepalese citizens, along with other non-EU/EEA nationals, must obtain a student residence permit to study in Denmark. This requirement applies to:
- Students enrolled in higher education programs
- Students attending Danish language courses
- Research scholars and PhD candidates
- Exchange students staying longer than three months
Eligibility Criteria for Nepalese Students
Academic Requirements
- Acceptance letter from a Danish educational institution
- Completion of higher secondary education (10+2)
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS score of minimum 6.5 or TOEFL score of 80)
- Academic transcripts and certificates
Financial Requirements
- Proof of sufficient funds (approximately DKK 83,628 per year for 2023)
- Bank statements showing consistent financial history
- Scholarship documentation (if applicable)
Required Documents for Visa Application
Essential Documents
- Completed ST1 application form
- Valid passport (minimum 3 months beyond intended stay)
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Acceptance letter from Danish institution
- Proof of paid tuition fees
- Financial documentation
- Academic certificates and transcripts
- English language proficiency certificates
- Health insurance documentation
- Criminal record certificate
Visa Application Process
Step 1: Online Application
- Create an account on the Danish Immigration Service website
- Complete the ST1 form online
- Pay the application fee
- Print and sign the application cover letter
Step 2: Document Submission
- Gather all required documents
- Make copies and get them authenticated
- Prepare the application package
Where to Submit the Visa Application in Nepal
Applications can be submitted at:
- VFS Global Center in Kathmandu
- Royal Danish Embassy in New Delhi (as there’s no Danish embassy in Nepal) Address: VFS Global, Kathmandu Mall, Sundhara, Kathmandu
Student Visa Application Fee
The current fee structure (2023):
- Study permit application: DKK 2,050
- VFS service charge: NPR 3,500
- Biometric fee: NPR 1,500 *Fees are subject to change
Proving Financial Support
Acceptable Financial Documentation
- Personal bank statements (last 6 months)
- Parent’s bank statements with affidavit
- Scholarship award letters
- Education loans from recognized banks
- Proof of blocked account in Denmark
Visa Processing Timeline
- Standard processing time: 30-60 days
- Fast track processing: 15-30 days
- Peak season (June-August) may require longer processing
Health Insurance Requirements
Students must have:
- Comprehensive health insurance coverage
- Minimum coverage of EUR 30,000
- Valid for entire study duration Recommended providers:
- International Student Insurance
- Danish Health Insurance
Preparing for the Visa Interview
Key Areas to Prepare
- Study program details
- Financial arrangements
- Future plans
- Danish culture and society
- Basic Danish phrases
- Current affairs
Working Rights on Student Visa
Students can work:
- 20 hours per week during semesters
- Full-time during holidays
- Must obtain CPR number
- Need to register with tax authorities
Tracking Visa Application Status
Methods to track:
- Online through VFS Global website
- Through Danish Immigration Service portal
- Via email updates
- SMS notifications (if subscribed)
What to Do If Visa Is Denied
Appeal options:
- Submit appeal within 8 weeks
- Provide additional documentation
- Seek legal assistance
- Consider alternative study destinations
- Reapply with stronger application
Visa Duration and Validity
Standard Duration
- Valid for study program duration plus 6 months
- Maximum initial duration: 2 years
- Renewable if studies continue
- Post-study work permit possible
Extension Requirements
- Continued enrollment in studies
- Satisfactory academic progress
- Maintained financial stability
- Valid health insurance
- Clean criminal record
This comprehensive guide provides essential information for Nepalese students planning to study in Denmark. Remember that requirements and procedures may change, so always verify current information with official sources like the Danish Immigration Service website or VFS Global.
Read More
- Danish Grades: A Guide for Nepalese Students
- Securing Strong Recommendations for Danish Universities
- Visa and Admission Guide for Nepalese Students
For the most up-to-date information, contact:
- Danish Immigration Service: www.newtodenmark.dk
- VFS Global Nepal: www.vfsglobal.com/denmark/nepal
- Study in Denmark: www.studyindenmark.dk