United States Visa RequirementsFor Denmark passport holders
Danish passport holders can travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for up to 90 days. An ESTA authorization ($21) is required before travel.
Denmark passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to United States.
Apply online at esta.cbp.dhs.gov before your trip. The fee is $21 USD (a $4 travel promotion fee plus a $17 authorization fee), payable by credit or debit card. Most applications are approved instantly, but allow up to 72 hours. Your ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, and covers multiple trips. ESTA does not guarantee entry: a CBP officer makes the final decision at the port of entry.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Denmark to United States: What You Need to Know
Denmark has been part of the US Visa Waiver Program since 1991, reflecting decades of close NATO alliance and warm bilateral relations. Denmark and the US have cooperated closely on Arctic policy, defense (notably regarding Greenland), and global trade. Copenhagen Airport (CPH) is one of Scandinavia's busiest hubs with frequent transatlantic connections. A notable Danish-American community exists particularly in the Midwest and California. If you hold dual Danish and non-VWP nationality, use your Danish passport for ESTA.
How to Get There
SAS (Scandinavian Airlines) flies nonstop from Copenhagen (CPH) to New York (JFK/EWR), Chicago (ORD), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), and Washington (IAD). United, American, and Delta also operate CPH routes. Norwegian Air previously served Copenhagen-US routes; check current availability.
Money & Banking
The US uses the US Dollar (USD). Cards are universally accepted. Tipping is a fundamental cultural obligation in the US and should not be skipped: 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, a few dollars for taxi drivers and hotel housekeeping. In Denmark, tips are included; in the US, service workers' wages depend on them. Carry some cash for small vendors and tipping in cash.
Practical Tips
Apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before your flight. The 90-day limit applies per visit and cannot be extended. Carry proof of your return ticket and accommodation. US customs rules are strict on food items: do not bring fresh produce, meats, or dairy from Denmark. Tipping culture in the US is very different from Denmark, where service charges are included in prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Danish citizens need a visa to visit the United States?
No. Denmark is part of the US Visa Waiver Program since 1991. Danish passport holders can visit the US for up to 90 days without a visa, but need an approved ESTA before traveling.
How do Danish citizens apply for ESTA?
Apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov. The process is fully online; approval usually comes within minutes. Apply at least 72 hours before your flight. Cost: $21 USD.
How long can Danes stay in the United States on ESTA?
Up to 90 days per visit. The stay cannot be extended while in the US on VWP status.
What nonstop flights are available from Denmark to the US?
SAS flies nonstop from Copenhagen (CPH) to New York (JFK/EWR), Chicago (ORD), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), and Washington (IAD). United also flies CPH-Newark.
Can Danish citizens work in the United States on ESTA?
No. ESTA is limited to tourism, transit, and business meetings. Work requires a US work visa.
Does ESTA guarantee entry to the United States?
No. An approved ESTA allows boarding, but a US CBP officer makes the final admission decision at the port of entry.
What happens if a Danish traveler overstays 90 days in the US?
Overstaying is a serious immigration violation leading to removal, VWP ineligibility, and future visa difficulties.
Is ESTA valid for multiple trips to the United States?
Yes. One ESTA approval covers multiple trips to the US for up to 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.