How to Get a CPR Number and Free Healthcare in Denmark
- Zoe & Bo
- Jun 30
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 19
CPR Registration Is the First Step to Start Your Life in Denmark
If you’ve just moved to Denmark as an international student, EU worker, or new resident, your very first priority should be getting your CPR number — Denmark’s personal ID system. Without it, you won’t be able to open a bank account, visit a doctor, sign a rental contract, or even get a SIM card.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how CPR registration works, what documents you need, and how it connects to Denmark’s free healthcare system.
What Is a CPR Number
CPR stands for Det Centrale Personregister — the Central Person Register. It’s a unique number assigned to you once you register your address in Denmark and prove legal residence. Think of it as your Danish social security number.
Your CPR number is used for:
Accessing free public healthcare
Opening a Danish bank account
Signing a rental contract
Applying for a student job or work permit
Receiving your MitID (digital ID)
Accessing public services and education
📌 Format: DDMMYY-XXXX (e.g. 150199-1234)
Why You Need It for Healthcare
Once your CPR is active, you’ll receive a yellow health card (sundhedskort) by post. This card gives you:
A family doctor (GP)
Free visits to public clinics and hospitals
Emergency medical treatment
Access to mental health services
In short: No CPR = No access to Denmark’s healthcare system.
How to Apply for a CPR Number in Denmark
You must apply in person at your local Borgerservice (Citizen Service) office. Here’s what you’ll need to bring:
Valid passport or EU national ID card
Your EU residence certificate or residence permit
Proof of Danish address (rental contract or confirmation)
University admission letter or work contract
📍 Find your local kommune office: lifeindenmark.dk
How Long Does It Take?
Processing usually takes 1–3 weeks. Once approved, your CPR number is issued immediately, and your yellow card arrives by mail shortly after.
What If You Need a Doctor Before You Get Your CPR?
Don’t panic — here’s what you can do:
EU citizens: Use your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
Non-EU citizens: Use private travel insurance (required for visa anyway)
You’ll need this coverage until your CPR is issued and public healthcare becomes available to you.
Clever Tips for a Smooth Start
Apply ASAP after arrival — delays can affect your ability to work, rent, or get benefits.
Register your address first. Without an official address, you can’t get a CPR number.
Choose your doctor during registration (many municipalities allow this).
Double-check your documents before visiting Borgerservice to avoid delays.
Who Gets Free Healthcare in Denmark?
EU Citizens:
Yes — once you have a CPR number, healthcare is completely free.
Non-EU Citizens:
Also yes — but only after registering your residence and getting your CPR. Until then, use private health insurance.
Final Checklist for CPR & Healthcare
Find accommodation in Denmark
Register your address at Borgerservice
Apply for your EU residence certificate (if needed)
Get your CPR number
Receive your yellow health card
Choose a family doctor
Set up your MitID and open a bank account
Need Help? That’s Why We’re Here!
At Clever Immigrant, we guide you step-by-step through:
The CPR application process
Healthcare registration
Housing, work, and student life in Denmark
Check out our guide: Study in Denmark Guide
Looking for housing? Housing in Denmark
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