Denmark Travel Advice

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Denmark Travel Advice

Security travel advice for Denmark

How safe is Denmark?

Threat level: Low-Medium

COVID-19 Situation in Denmark

Due to a surge in coronavirus cases, Denmark is in partial lockdown since the 17th of December and up until at least the 5th of April, limiting public and private gatherings to 5 people and closing shopping centers, department stores, restaurants, cafes and bars. However, since the 1st of March, some of the restrictions have been relaxed and shops that are less than 5000m2 have reopened (except those that are located in a shopping centre). Further to this, entry is restricted for international travellers, only visitors from low risk countries are allowed entry to Denmark but entry to Greenland is closed. The use of facemasks is mandatory in public transport and airports and people are recommended to maintain social distancing of 2 meters. For more advice on preventive measures to follow, refer to our healthcare section.

Security in Denmark

Denmark is reasonably stable and safe, and as in other Western countries, there are some occasions of outbreaks of social unrest. This includes isolated incidents of civil disturbances, especially in the area of Christiania, in Copenhagen.

Although the threat level is low, the current situation in Europe is on high alert of potential terrorist attacks in Europe the general travel advice for Denmark is that visitors to the country should remain vigilant.

In February 2015, a shooting incident occurred in Copenhagen at the Krudttonden cultural centre, in which 2 civilians were killed and 5 police officers were wounded. Although it was not officially announced, it is believed that the Danish authorities considered it to be linked to terrorism. Travellers are advised to remain vigilant and be careful of any suspicious activities.

The general level of crime within Denmark is relatively low, however the general travel advice for Denmark is to make every effort to secure all personal belongings. As with all tourist destinations, there is a risk of pick pocketing in busy areas.

There have been past public demonstrations in the area of Christiania in Copenhagen. You should not involve yourself in any demonstrations and leave an area if it looks like a protest could break out.

In the past ten years, the Danish have anticipated attacks from Islamic extremists, following previous attacks on its embassies abroad, as well as its politically turbulent history. This is due to the Jyllands Posten Newspaper, which had inflamed the Muslim world by depicting the Prophet Muhammad in twelve cartoons of defamatory nature.

As we know from other similar circumstances in France, this type of media publications, has incited ill intentions to its publishing country. The Danish Defence Intelligence Service have noted terrorist threats from groups such as ISIS.

It is advised to be vigilant with reference to public places and tourist locations, as the general European terrorism threat is at heightened risk. The Danish authority’s current level of threat is at “significant”.

Denmark's International Relations

In recent years, Cyber espionage against Denmark has significantly increased against business interest within the area, this is presumed to reside from state-sponsored sources.

The Danish Intelligence services report that Russia may pose a significant challenge in the future, with regards to the political developments in the Baltic Area.

Denmark has good international relations globally and has been involved in many Western-led conflicts. However, in response to the previously mentioned cartoon depictions of the Prophet Muhammad and its conflict involvement, Kuwait and Iraq have previously renounced Denmark and its diplomatic ties to the country.

Travelling around Denmark

When travelling by car in an EU country, British nationals do not need an International Driving Permit (IDP) but a motor insurance green card issued by their car insurer is required to drive a UK-registered car in the EU.

There has been increased border controls between Denmark and neighbouring Germany. It is advised you check current travel warnings before you travel, along with holding all relevant documentation for land-based travel at these borders.

When driving a vehicle in Denmark, dimmed headlights are mandatory at all times, even during the day. If using public transport, be wary of cyclists, as designated bike paths are usually located between the road and the footpath. It is important to know that you should never walk on any bike paths.

Local Traditions in Denmark

The whaling season, also known as "Grindadráp" takes place annually in the Faroe Islands, between the months of June and September. This is a tradition in Denmark that involves catching and slaughtering long-finned pilot fins whales. This is an event that is not widely supported by all and quite often attracts many protesters. During this period, there is an increase in police security and their presence, travellers should remain cautious of large gatherings and demonstrations.

Commercial Travel Risk Services

Intelligent Protection International Limited provides companies and organisations with Commercial Travel Risk Services designed to mitigate risks of staff when they travel for business. If you are interested in these services, please see: Commercial Travel Risk Services.

Emergency services in Denmark

Police emergency: 112 (Non-emergency police: 114)
Fire emergency: 112
Medical emergency: 112

Denmark Overview

Capital: Copenhagen
Official languages: Danish
Religion: Christianity (Church of Denmark)
Currency: Danish krone (DKK)
Time now in Copenhagen:

Consular information for Denmark

U.S. Embassy Copenhagen
Dag Hammarskjölds Allé 24
Copenhagen,
DK-2100,
Denmark
Telephone: +45 3341 7100
Telephone: +45 3341 7400 (Out of hours)
Email: copenhagenACS@state.gov

British Embassy Copenhagen
Kastelsvej 36-40,
Copenhagen,
DK-2100,
Denmark
Telephone: +45 3544 5200
Email: Enquiry.Copenhagen@fco.gov.uk

Visa requirements for Denmark

For EU and U.S. travellers, an entry visa for tourists or business purposes are not required for a visit to Denmark for periods of up to three months. After this period, you should apply for a residence permit.

As the UK is no longer part of the EU, British nationals can travel without a visa to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. However, to stay longer than 90 days in Denmark whether for work, study, business travel or any other reasons, a visa will be required. Please note that visits to other Schengen countries within the previous 180 days will be cumulative and will count towards the 90-day limit.

Healthcare and Immunisations

If you are a British citizen, your UK EHIC card remains valid when travelling to an EU country until it expires, providing access to state-provided healthcare in Denmark. After that, British citizens must apply for a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) which will cover them for state-provided healthcare in the EU but not in countries part of the European Economic Area (EEA) (Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland). Nevertheless, you will be required to show proof on arrival that you have travel insurance for your trip.

COVID-19 is present in Denmark and there is no vaccination against it. Protection is through following preventive measures: self-isolate, avoid travel unless necessary, don't gather in public places and apply good hygiene precautions.

It is advised that visitors to Denmark are up-to-date with primary boosters such as MMR. It is further recommended that most travellers get a Tetanus vaccination. Check with your local health professional prior to travel, if you are unsure.

The medical facilities in Denmark are of European standard, with main hospitals located in Copenhagen, Aarhus and the Odense area. Please see our live map for local health facilities. It is also important to take out all the necessary health and travel insurance in order to cover any costs occurred during your visit.

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    Map of Denmark

    Disclaimer:
    You are responsible for your own safety abroad and for making the decision to travel.

    The information contained in this Travel Advice for Denmark is provided for information only. Whilst care is taken to ensure that this country brief is as up-to-date and accurate as possible, it is provided on an "as is" basis without any representation or endorsement made and without warranty of any kind, express or implied. Intelligent Protection International Limited does not assume responsibility and shall not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.