How to apply
Please remember to include all the necessary information and documentation in your application. Doing so ensures that the Immigration Service can process your application as quickly as possible.
Each application form contains a detailed description of how to complete the form and which documents to include.
Please note that form BF1 is to be used when applying for dispensation before leaving Denmark. BF1 is also used when applying for an extension of the dispensation period.
BF2 and BF3 are used when applying that your residence permit not be considered as lapsed even though you are outside Denmark and have exceeded the time limit.
Dispensation
> Application form BF1 (dispensation, extension of dispensation)
Residence permit should not be considered as lapsed
> Application form BF2 (adult and accompanying children)
> Application form BF3 (only available in Danish) (unaccompanied child)
You can also obtain a printed version of the application form from the Danish diplomatic mission in your country of residence, from the Service Centre of the Immigration Service, or from the local police.
Where to submit your application
If you live in the Greater Copenhagen area, you should submit the application at the Service Centre. If you live elsewhere, you can also obtain the form and submit your application at your local police station.
If you apply from outside Denmark, you can submit your application at the Danish diplomatic mission (embassy or consulate general). When you have completed and submitted the application form, the diplomatic mission will forward it to the Immigration Service, where it will be processed.
If there is no Danish diplomatic mission in the country where you are staying, the Immigration Service may allow you to submit your application in another country. You can find additional information about Danish diplomatic missions on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
You will normally have to pay a fee to the diplomatic mission. The fee can vary in price. The individual diplomatic mission can also make further demands such as extra passport photos or duplicate copies of the application. The Immigration Service recommends that you check the requirements on the website of the diplomatic mission before submitting your application.
If you are outside Denmark and wish to apply that your residence permit not be considered as lapsed, you must submit your application before returning to Denmark.
Processing your application
When the Immigration Service has received your application, it will process it along with the attached documentation and other information. The Immigration Service will also check to see if you have been reported to the Schengen Information System (SIS).
If the Immigration Service receives information that does not correspond with the information you have provided, you will be asked to explain any discrepancies before the Immigration Service rules on the case.
Receiving the ruling
If you apply for dispensation before leaving Denmark, the Immigration Service will send its ruling to your Danish address. If the Immigration Service has turned down your application, this means that you may only leave Denmark for the normal period of time (six or 12 months). If you exceed this time limit, your residence permit will lapse. In this case, the ruling will include information about how to appeal the ruling.
If you apply that your residence permit not be considered as lapsed, and the Immigration Service rules in your favour, the ruling will be sent to your contact address in Denmark or another country.
If your application is turned down, and you are in Denmark, you will be informed by the police or your attorney. Alternatively, you may be called in to the Immigration Service.
If are outside Denmark, the Immigration Service will send the ruling to the diplomatic mission where you submitted your application.
The diplomatic mission will then either send the ruling to you or ask you to pick it up in person. If the Immigration Service has turned down your application, you cannot return to Denmark but will have to apply for a new residence permit. In this case, the ruling will include information about how to appeal the ruling.