An IMGW news Report
Denmark Tightens Student Visa Rules in Bid to Curb ‘Study-to-Work’ LoopholeIn a significant tightening of immigration policy,
Denmark has moved to curtail work and family visa rights for foreign students enrolled in higher education programmes not formally approved by the state.
The shift, effective from 2 May 2025, follows an amendment to the Executive Order governing residence and work permits for international students. Henceforth, students may only obtain a Danish residence permit if enrolled in a higher education or doctoral programme offered by a publicly accredited institution.
Crucially, the programme itself must either be state-approved or deemed eligible by the Danish Evaluation Institute.
Those studying at institutions that fall outside this framework will no longer be entitled to limited work permits, six-month post-study job-seeking stays, or the right to bring family members.
According to the Ministry of Immigration and Integration, the policy aims to reinforce the integrity of Denmark’s education-based immigration system by ensuring applicants have a bona fide intention to pursue studies rather than use the student route as a gateway to labour market entry.Importantly, the changes are not retroactive.
Foreign nationals already granted residence permits for non-state-approved programmes prior to 2 May 2025 will retain their existing rights – including work privileges and family reunification.
Extensions submitted after that date will also preserve these entitlements for current permit holders.While the government insists the reform is a matter of procedural clarity and system integrity, critics argue it may dampen Denmark’s appeal to international students, especially those pursuing niche or private academic offerings.
The move comes amid broader European anxieties around immigration routes perceived as vulnerable to abuse, particularly in the wake of geopolitical tensions and shifting labour demands. In effect, Denmark is drawing a firmer line between study and settlement.
“The move comes amid broader European anxieties around immigration routes perceived as vulnerable to abuse”
Whether this recalibration bolsters public confidence in immigration controls – or undermines its higher education sector’s global attractiveness – remains to be seen.
