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Emigrating to Denmark as a Pensioner: Your Comprehensive Guide
Dreaming of a relaxed retirement in Denmark? Emigrating as a pensioner requires careful planning. Find out about the tax specifics, health insurance, and cost of living. Learn more in our comprehensive guide and start your new life worry-free!
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Dreaming of a relaxed retirement in Denmark? Emigrating as a pensioner requires careful planning. Find out about the tax specifics, health insurance, and cost of living. Learn more in our comprehensive guide and start your new life worry-free!
Dreaming of a relaxed retirement in Denmark? Emigrating as a pensioner requires careful planning. Find out about the tax specifics, health insurance, and cost of living. Learn more in our comprehensive guide and start your new life worry-free!
Dreaming of a relaxed retirement in Denmark? Emigrating as a pensioner requires careful planning. Find out about the tax specifics, health insurance, and cost of living. Learn more in our comprehensive guide and start your new life worry-free!
Planning your retirement in Denmark? Learn all the important information about taxes, health insurance, finances, and integration. Find out more now!
Planning to spend your retirement in Denmark? This guide provides you with a comprehensive overview of all the important aspects that you, as a German retiree, should consider when moving to Denmark. From the legal framework and tax peculiarities to health insurance and cost of living – we provide all the information you need for successful planning and execution. At GoMovin, we understand that such a step requires careful consideration. That's why we support you with our expertise and global network to make your move as stress-free and efficient as possible. Our all-in-one solution includes personal consultation, legal support, property services and assistance with cultural integration.
Denmark is becoming increasingly popular among German retirees. The country offers a high quality of life, a well-developed infrastructure, and friendly people. But before you pack your bags, you should thoroughly inform yourself and prepare. This article serves as a guide to help you make the right decisions. Learn how to plan your finances, what taxes will apply to your pension, and how to integrate into the Danish healthcare system.
Would you like to fully enjoy your retirement? Then careful planning is essential. We help you take all the necessary steps to realize your dream of living in Denmark. Contact us today for a personal consultation and find out how we can support you in your move.
Successful planning: How to prepare for your move
Careful planning is essential for a successful move to Denmark as a retiree. Start preparations early, ideally 1 to 1.5 years in advance, as NDR.de reports. This gives you ample time to undertake all necessary steps and avoid unpleasant surprises. First, clarify your legal and administrative requirements.
Legal and Administrative Requirements
Within three months of your arrival in Denmark, you must register with the Staatsforvaltningen. For this, you will need proof of sufficient financial means and valid health insurance. The Perspektive Ausland website recommends addressing these formalities early.
Financial Planning
The cost of living in Denmark can be higher than in Germany. Experts recommend budgeting at least 1500 EUR per month. Clarify how your pension will be transferred to Denmark and whether you are entitled to the Danish Folkepension. GoMovin assists you in resolving these financial questions and helps you create a solid financial plan for your retirement in Denmark.
Language and Integration
Learning the Danish language is an important step towards integration. Free Danish courses are often offered. Build a network with other expatriates to exchange experiences and support each other. Our GoMovin Community provides you with the opportunity to connect and benefit from the experiences of others.
Optimise tax burden: Avoid double taxation
An important aspect when retiring to Denmark is the taxation of your pension. The Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) between Germany and Denmark determines which country is entitled to tax your pension. Generally, state pensions are taxed in Germany, while private pensions may be taxable in Denmark.
Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) Germany-Denmark
According to the Double Taxation Agreement with Germany, state pensions continue to be taxed in Germany, whereas private pensions may be subject to taxation in Denmark. It is advisable to consult a tax advisor to assess the individual tax implications.
Taxation of Different Types of Pensions
Continuously paid early retirement benefits with a “provision character” are taxed in Denmark, while one-off payments are generally taxed in Germany, unless they are “earned” capitalised early retirement benefits paid out no more than one year prior to retirement age; in this case, the taxation takes place in Denmark. Civil service pensions are usually taxed in Germany.
Special Case: Cross-Border Commuters
For cross-border commuters, limited or unlimited tax liability in Germany can be considered. A certificate of non-assessment is possible if the income is low. Tyskrevision.com provides detailed information on this topic. GoMovin collaborates with experienced tax advisors who thoroughly advise you and help you optimise your tax burden.
Safeguarding Health: Keeping Health Insurance Under Control
Health insurance is another important aspect to consider when retiring and moving to Denmark. Generally, as a pensioner, you remain insured in the country from which you receive your pension. This means that you will usually continue to be covered by German health insurance.
German Health Insurance
As FR.de reports, pensioners are generally insured in the country from which they draw their pension. This means you will continue to have access to the German healthcare system.
Danish Health Insurance
To access medical services in Denmark, you will need a CPR number, which you must apply for at the Borgerservice. Once you receive the CPR number, you will be given a yellow health card (gult sundhedskort), which grants you access to the Danish healthcare system.
Additional Private Health Insurance
An additional private health insurance can be beneficial to cover certain services not covered by statutory health insurance. GoMovin is happy to advise you on selecting the right health insurance for your individual needs.
Finding a Home: Real Estate Market and Alternatives
Searching for a suitable apartment or house is an important step in planning your retirement in Denmark. However, the real estate market in Denmark can be challenging, especially in major cities. It is worth looking for housing outside the urban centres as well.
Real estate market in Denmark
Research the real estate market thoroughly, particularly in regions outside the large cities, to find attractive offers. Purchasing property is generally permitted for EU citizens, provided the property is occupied year-round or used for a self-employed business.
Challenges of purchasing property
Buying property can be particularly challenging in rural areas. It is advisable to seek advice from a local real estate agent.
Alternatives to buying
In addition to purchasing property, there is also the option to rent accommodation. This can be a flexible option, especially in the early stages of your retirement in Denmark. GoMovin supports you in finding suitable accommodation, whether you wish to buy or rent.
Navigating Formalities: A Smooth Move to Denmark
A smooth relocation requires completing some formalities. This includes registering in Denmark, opening a Danish bank account, and registering your vehicle.
Registering in Denmark
For registration in Denmark, you will need various documents, including your birth certificate, medical records, and a valid ID or passport. After three months, you must apply for a residence permit, which is generally valid for five years and is easily obtainable with proof of employment.
Bank Account
To open a Danish bank account, you need proof of your residence in Denmark.
Vehicle Registration
If you want to bring your own car to Denmark, you need to register it within two weeks of your arrival. Bernhard-Reise.com points out that failing to meet this deadline may result in fines or even confiscation of the vehicle. GoMovin assists you with all these formalities and ensures that your move goes smoothly.
Leveraging social security: Securing pension entitlements
The crediting of insurance periods and receiving your pension are important aspects of social security that you should consider when moving to Denmark as a retiree.
Crediting of Insurance Periods
European law coordinates the social security systems of the member states. This allows the crediting of insurance periods in Germany and Denmark for rehabilitation or pension claims.
German Pension Insurance
The Deutsche Rentenversicherung Nord, Bund, or Knappschaft-Bahn-See are your contacts for German pension insurance matters related to Denmark. These offices process pension applications, forward Danish pension claims, and pay German pensions to Denmark. It is advisable to contact the German Pension Insurance early to clarify all necessary steps.
A1 Certificate
If you work temporarily in Denmark for a German employer, insurance in Germany is possible for up to 24 months (A1 certificate). GoMovin supports you in applying for the A1 certificate and advises you on all social security matters.
Overcoming Hurdles: Tips for a Successful Start
Emigrating to Denmark as a pensioner can come with a few challenges. Cultural differences, language barriers, and high living costs can make the start difficult. However, with the right preparation and a few tips, you can overcome these hurdles.
Cultural Differences
Familiarise yourself with Danish culture and lifestyle. The Danes are known for their calmness and sense of humour.
Language Barriers
Actively participate in language acquisition. Even though many Danes speak German or English, it is important to learn the Danish language to fully integrate into society.
High Living Costs
Plan your budget carefully. The cost of living in Denmark can be higher than in Germany.
Loneliness
Build a social network. Join clubs or groups to make connections and find new friends. Our GoMovin Community offers you a platform to exchange experiences with other emigrants and support each other.
Fresh Start in Denmark: Planning for Success
Emigrating to Denmark as a retiree is a significant step that requires careful consideration. However, with thorough planning, consideration of tax aspects, clarification of health insurance, integration into Danish society, and financial planning, you can successfully begin your retirement in Denmark.
We at GoMovin are here to support you in your journey. Our all-in-one solution includes personal consultation, legal assistance, property services, and help with cultural integration. We simplify the moving process, making international relocation stress-free, efficient, and tailored to your needs.
Are you ready for your fresh start in Denmark? Contact us today and let us advise you. We help you realise your dream of living in Denmark. Get in touch now and begin your journey towards a relaxed retirement!
Further useful links
The NDR reports on the most common misconceptions about emigrating to Denmark.
FR.de provides information about health insurance for pensioners who move to Denmark.
The German Federal Ministry of Labour offers general information on pension insurance abroad.
The European Commission provides information on social security in Denmark.
Danish Ministry of Health (in English) offers information about the Danish healthcare system.
FAQ
What legal steps are necessary to emigrate to Denmark as a retiree?
Within three months of your arrival, you need to register with the Staatsforvaltningen. You will need proof of sufficient financial means and a valid health insurance. A CPR number from the Borgerservice is essential for accessing healthcare and banking services.
How does the double taxation agreement affect my pension?
The Double Taxation Agreement (DBA) between Germany and Denmark regulates the taxation of your pension. Typically, state pensions are taxed in Germany, whereas private pensions can be taxed in Denmark. It is advisable to consult a tax advisor.
Will I remain insured as a German retiree in Denmark?
Generally, you will remain insured with the German health insurance, as you receive your pension from Germany. To access medical services in Denmark, you need the CPR number and the yellow health card (gult sundhedskort).
How do the living costs in Denmark compare to Germany?
The living costs in Denmark can be higher than in Germany. Experts recommend budgeting at least 1500 EUR per month. It is advisable to plan your finances carefully and possibly consider locations outside the major cities.
Can I easily purchase property in Denmark as an EU citizen?
Buying property in Denmark is generally permitted for EU citizens, provided the property is for year-round living or used for a self-employed business. However, purchasing property in rural areas can be challenging.
What role does the Danish language play in integration?
Learning the Danish language is an important step towards integration. Often, free Danish courses are available. Building a network with other expatriates can also be beneficial.
How far in advance should I plan my move to Denmark?
It is recommended to ideally commence preparations 1 to 1.5 years in advance. This provides you with sufficient time to undertake all necessary steps and avoid unpleasant surprises.
What is the A1 certificate and when do I need it?
If you are temporarily working in Denmark for a German employer, it is possible to be insured in Germany for up to 24 months. This is evidenced by the A1 certificate, which must be applied for before commencing work.
