Guide to the Danish banking system

The bank account and how to obtain it

According to Danish law, any person has the right to open a basic bank account (not including overdraft facilities, or credit or debit cards). The way to open an account is simply to go into a bank and ask for this. However, you must have a Danish CPR number. Furthermore, due to EU rules, you need to provide the bank with certain information such as your full name and address, and be able to identify yourself.

Easy Account (NemKonto)

All persons residing in Denmark should have an Easy Account (NemKonto). An Easy Account is an ordinary bank account to which all payments from public institutions (tax refunds, child subsidies, pensions, student loans, unemployment benefits, housing support and social welfare payments) can be paid directly. This saves time for both you and the public institution. Your basic bank account can be designated as an Easy Account, and you can change the Easy Account if you change bank. An ordinary bank account can be designated as an Easy Account either by the bank or directly by you if you have a digital signature. Read more about Easy Account.

Debit cards and internationally-accepted credit/debit cards

There are various types of credit cards and debit cards in Denmark. Read more about credit and debit cards in Denmark.

Which bank should I choose?

There are many different banks in Denmark. A few of these are very large but there are also many local banks. Each main bank has branches nationally. You can find a list of the banks in your area by using the search tool of the Yellow Pages (De Gule Sider). Go to search tool.

E-banking and an easy way to pay bills

Almost all banks offer e-banking to their customers, some even in English. This is an easy tool that allows customers to pay bills, transfer money and check their bank account at home. In Denmark your bills and invoices will often come in the form of a payment form called a 'girokort'. It is possible to pay these bills at the bank or the post office. You can also pay via e-banking services or sign regular bills up to be paid automatically by direct debit (Betalingsservice). Read more about direct debit services.