The CPR number, or Det Centrale Personregister, is a key element of the Danish administrative system, acting as a unique identifier for every person registered in Denmark. As a central element of the population register, the CPR number is essential to function in Denmark, both in everyday life and in dealing with authorities. It enables effective identification of citizens and residents, which is important for the proper management of social, health and tax services.
The Danish CPR number (Det Centrale Personregister) is a key component of the administrative system in Denmark, providing a unique identifier for every person registered in the country.
Basic information about the Danish CPR number:
I. Basic function: The CPR number serves as the primary identifier in the Danish administrative system. It enables close identification of citizens and those living in Denmark, which is essential for the proper management of various aspects of social and economic life.
II. Administrative use: The CPR number is used in a wide variety of areas, including filing tax returns, obtaining health and welfare benefits, and dealing with public offices and institutions. It helps maintain order and efficiency in public administration.
III. Assigning a number: A CPR number is assigned to each person who obtains permanent or temporary registration in Denmark. The process is usually done online, but it is also possible to use the assistance of the local municipality office.
IV. Number structure: the CPR number consists of 10 digits. The first 6 digits correspond to the person's date of birth (day, month, year), while the remaining 4 digits are a unique identifier. The number also contains so-called “check digits” that help validate the correctness of the number.
V. Security and privacy: due to its importance, the CPR number is protected by data protection laws. Individuals with the number have the right to privacy and control over how their data is used by various institutions.
The operation of the CPR number can be compared to the Polish PESEL number, which has a similar identification function in Poland. Both numbers are necessary for the effective functioning of administrative systems in their respective countries.
In order to obtain a CPR number in Denmark, you need to go through several key steps:
1. Registration of residence - Make sure you have permanent or temporary registration in Denmark. A CPR number is only granted to people who are registered in the Danish resident registration system.
2. Applying
- Online: You can apply for a CPR number online, which greatly simplifies the process and eliminates the need to visit offices in person. The cost of processing the application is approximately DKK 82. If you do not have access to the Internet, officials in municipalities can help you fill out and submit the documents. Local public libraries often have computers and access to the web, making it possible to submit applications online.
- In-person visit: If applying online is not possible, you can visit your local municipality office.
3. Required documents: When applying, prepare the following documents, which should be translated into English, German, Danish, Swedish or Norwegian:
- Passport or ID card
- Proof of residence in Denmark (e.g., rental agreement)
- Proof of employment (e.g., employment contract)
- Certificate of residence permit
- Marriage certificate, if applicable
- Documents relating to divorce or death of spouse, if applicable
- Children's birth certificates, if the children have moved with you.
Proxy: If you are applying on behalf of another person, you must provide a written proxy that allows you to represent that person.
4. Obtaining a number:
- Waiting Time: A CPR number is usually granted by SKAT within 6-10 weeks after submission of complete documentation.
- Certificate: If you applied online, you will receive a reference number from the International Center for Foreigners in Copenhagen, which you must pick up in person. For those outside Copenhagen, it is possible to apply at the Foreigners' Centers in Odense, Aarhus and Aalborg.
5. Next steps after you get your number:
- Health insurance: Once you have a CPR number, you automatically gain access to the Danish health insurance system and can receive medical services. The municipality will provide you with a list of doctors from which you must choose your doctor.
- Setting up a tax card: The CPR number allows you to start the process of setting up a tax card.
- Employer notification: You will find your CPR number on your initial annual tax return. SKAT will send your tax identification number to your employer via digital mail, which will enable you to correctly calculate and remit advance income tax payments.
You can receive your tax identification number at the earliest one month before you start working in Denmark. If you have previously lived or worked in Denmark, it is possible that you already have a CPR number.
To obtain a CPR number in Denmark, you must meet several key requirements. First and foremost, you must be registered in Denmark, whether permanently or temporarily, as a CPR number is only granted to those registered in the Danish population registry system. It is also necessary to have the appropriate documents, including proof of residence in Denmark, which can be in the form of a lease agreement, and a valid passport or ID card. In addition, a residence permit is required, which is issued by the relevant immigration authorities and may vary depending on the type of stay, such as tourism, work or study.
European Union citizens have the right to stay in Denmark without registration for the first 3 months. If you plan to extend your stay or seek employment, you must apply for residency registration before this period expires. For temporary residence, such as seasonal work, you will receive a kildeskattenummer - a taxpayer number for paying withholding tax - instead of a CPR number.
If you come to Denmark with your family, each family member, including children, must be assigned their own CPR number. Individual applications for each family member are required. If you are applying for a CPR number on behalf of another person, you must provide a written power of attorney that authorizes you to represent that person in the registration process.
We encourage you to use our services to make the process of applying for a CPR number in Denmark quick and hassle-free. Our team of experts will help you prepare all the necessary documents and provide support at every stage of registration. Thanks to us, you will avoid stress and gain confidence that all the paperwork will be handled in accordance with the requirements.