Studying in Denmark is a dream come true for many international students. With world-renowned universities, a vibrant student life, and a strong welfare state, the country offers an excellent academic and living environment. But while Denmark is known for its top-tier public healthcare system, navigating health insurance requirements as an international student—especially from outside the EU/EEA—can be a bit complex.
This guide dives into everything you need to know about health insurance as an international student in Denmark, from who needs what kind of coverage to the top 10 insurance providers tailored to students like you.
🩺 Understanding Health Coverage for International Students in Denmark
➤ For Non-EU/EEA Students:
- Short-term stay (under 3 months): You must purchase private health insurance before arrival, as you’re not eligible for public healthcare.
- Long-term stay (over 3 months): You must apply for a residence permit and register with the Civil Registration System (CPR). Once registered, you’ll receive the “yellow card”, giving you access to Denmark’s free public healthcare system.
❗ However, even with public coverage, services like dental care, repatriation, medical evacuation, and liability coverage are excluded. Private insurance is highly recommended to fill these gaps.
➤ For EU/EEA/Swiss Students:
- You can use your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access state healthcare in Denmark.
- But EHIC does not cover repatriation, non-urgent dental care, or lost personal possessions. Additional private coverage is advised.
🧾 What to Look for in a Health Insurance Plan
When choosing a health insurance provider, make sure the policy includes:
- ✅ Coverage for visa/residence permit requirements
- ✅ Emergency medical care and hospitalization
- ✅ Medical evacuation and repatriation
- ✅ Dental and mental health services (if needed)
- ✅ Accident and liability insurance
- ✅ Coverage before you get your CPR card
- ✅ 24/7 support and simple claims processing
🏆 Top 10 Health Insurance Options for International Students in Denmark
1. Swisscare
Why It’s Great:
Ideal for short stays and pre-CPR periods. Swisscare is affordable, fast, and designed specifically for students needing insurance to meet visa requirements.
Key Benefits:
- Instant digital policy
- Emergency medical care
- Repatriation, liability, and assistance benefits
- Coverage up to €500,000
- Visa-compliant
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Best For: Non-EU/EEA students before CPR registration
2. Allianz Care
Why It’s Great:
One of the most reputable international insurers with comprehensive, customizable plans for students studying abroad.
Key Benefits:
- Outpatient, inpatient, maternity, and mental health options
- Global evacuation and repatriation
- Annual check-ups and dental add-ons
- 24/7 multilingual assistance
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Best For: Students wanting premium, full-scope coverage
3. Cigna Global
Why It’s Great:
Cigna offers tailored, modular plans allowing students to build coverage that suits their unique situation.
Key Benefits:
- Inpatient and outpatient care
- Dental and vision optional
- Global and local Denmark-only plans
- Extensive global provider network
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Best For: Students wanting flexibility and extensive support
4. Bupa Global
Why It’s Great:
Bupa is known worldwide for its elite health insurance services, with top-tier plans covering extensive medical needs.
Key Benefits:
- High annual coverage (€1.25M–€5M)
- Dental, outpatient, cancer care, and maternity
- Strong global presence and hospital network
- 24/7 support
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Best For: Students wanting premium protection and peace of mind
5. IMG (International Medical Group)
Why It’s Great:
Provides student-specific insurance plans at affordable rates without compromising on essential coverage.
Key Benefits:
- Four tiers: Bronze to Platinum
- Covers inpatient, outpatient, and emergency care
- Repatriation and evacuation included
- Budget-friendly options
Best For: Students on a budget who still need comprehensive coverage
6. William Russell
Why It’s Great:
Popular among expats and international students, William Russell plans are known for their reliable service and tiered pricing.
Key Benefits:
- Coverage up to $5 million
- Full emergency and hospital coverage
- Outpatient and dental options
- 24/7 multilingual support
Best For: Students wanting reliable, long-term coverage
7. AXA Global Healthcare
Why It’s Great:
A trusted name in international health insurance with strong coverage options tailored to mobile students.
Key Benefits:
- 5 plan tiers from basic to premium
- Mental health, outpatient, and evacuation
- Dental and pregnancy options
- Customizable features
Best For: Students looking for a balance of affordability and flexibility
8. GeoBlue
Why It’s Great:
Excellent for U.S. students studying in Denmark. Offers comprehensive international and U.S. coverage with elective benefit options.
Key Benefits:
- U.S.-based customer service
- High-quality international care
- Vision, wellness, and dental add-ons
- Visa-compliant coverage
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Best For: U.S. citizens studying abroad
9. VUMI Global (VIP Universal Medical Insurance)
Why It’s Great:
High-end coverage designed for those seeking elite medical services and personalized global healthcare.
Key Benefits:
- Five levels of coverage
- Access to private hospitals and ICUs
- Vision and dental add-ons
- High annual caps
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Best For: Students seeking VIP-level healthcare access
10. IDA Forsikring (Danish Insurance Association)
Why It’s Great:
Local Danish provider offering a unique set of coverage tailored to students already in Denmark.
Key Benefits:
- Travel, accident, and home contents insurance
- Worldwide coverage
- Affordable pricing for students
- Available in Danish and English
Best For: Students already registered with CPR looking for supplemental insurance
📊 Comparison Summary Table
| Provider | Emergency Med. | Repatriation | Dental | Out/ In-patient | Mental Health | Liability | Visa Support | Notes |
| Swisscare | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | Best for short-term/pre-CPR |
| Allianz Care | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | Premium, comprehensive plans |
| Cigna Global | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | Highly customizable |
| Bupa Global | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | High limit, elite care |
| IMG | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | Budget-friendly, reliable |
| William Russell | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | Multiple plan tiers |
| AXA Global Healthcare | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | Global support and customization |
| GeoBlue | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | Ideal for U.S. students |
| VUMI Global | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | VIP-level coverage |
| IDA Forsikring | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | Local, affordable, student-based |
📝 Final Thoughts: Do You Really Need Private Insurance in Denmark?
Denmark’s public healthcare is top-notch but doesn’t cover all needs for international students, particularly before they get a CPR number. Dental care, mental health support, accident coverage, and medical evacuation are excluded from the public system.
Private insurance guarantees complete coverage for visa requirements and emergencies. Whether you’re here for a short visit or a multi-year degree, there’s a plan tailored to your academic needs:
- ✔ Verify your university’s insurance requirements
- ✔ Check your nationality-specific rules for CPR access
- ✔ Compare providers based on what services matter most to you
By securing the right health insurance, you can focus on what matters most—enjoying your studies and your life in beautiful Denmark!
