Banking in Denmark (2026): Best Banks & How to Open an Account
One of the first things to sort out after moving to Denmark is a bank account – you need one to receive your salary, pay rent and get set up with a Dankort and MobilePay. This guide compares the best banks in Denmark for expats and walks you through how to open an account with your CPR number and MitID, including what NemKonto is and how everyday payments work.
How we picked the best banks in Denmark
- ✓ English-speaking customer service
- ✓ Low fees and fair rates
- ✓ Clear terms with no hidden costs
- ✓ Easy to open as a newcomer
- ✓ Good app and online banking
Best banks in Denmark for expats, ranked
The first two are digital banks that are quick to open online before you have a full Danish history; the others are established Danish banks. Always check the current terms on the bank’s own site.
#1 |
N26 is a mobile bank that is easy to open online and popular with expats for managing money anywhere in English.
|
9.0
|
Visit N26 |
#2 |
Revolut is a fast, easy-to-use and reliable digital banking app, excellent for currency exchange and travel.
|
8.4
|
Visit Revolut |
#3 |
Danske Bank is Denmark’s largest bank and a solid choice once you have a CPR number. It offers an English website and good service.
|
8.0
|
Visit Danske Bank |
#4 |
Nykredit offers relatively low fees and is strong on lending and mortgages, with good digital tools, though service response can be slower.
|
7.1
|
Visit Nykredit |
#5 |
Arbejdernes Landsbank offers full support in English and great service, but it can be harder to open an account or borrow without some years of permanent residency.
|
7.0
|
Visit Arbejdernes Landsbank |
How to open a bank account in Denmark
Opening an account as a newcomer is more straightforward than many expats expect, as long as you have the essentials in order:
- Get your CPR number. Your CPR is the unique 10-digit personal registration number every resident receives when you register your address. Banks need it to open an account.
- Get MitID. MitID is Denmark’s national digital ID, used to log in securely to your bank, public services and more.
- Choose a bank from the comparison above, or a digital option to bridge the gap while you settle in.
- Apply online or book a branch appointment and bring your documents.
- Set up your NemKonto (see below) so you can receive salary and public payments.
What is NemKonto?
A NemKonto (“easy account”) is the account the state and public authorities use to pay you – for example tax refunds or benefits. You do not open a separate account: you simply designate one of your existing Danish accounts as your NemKonto. Almost everyone living or working in Denmark needs one, and your bank helps you set it up when you open your account.
What you need to open an account
- Photo ID, such as your passport (some banks ask for a notarised copy)
- Your CPR number
- Proof of address, such as a rental contract or utility bill
- An employment contract, or proof of enrolment if you are a student
Types of bank account in Denmark
- Current account (lønkonto) – Your everyday account for salary, rent and payments, with a card, mobile and online banking.
- NemKonto – The account designated to receive payments from the state; usually your current account.
- Savings account – Keeps money aside safely and can automate bill payments.
Banks also offer loan and credit accounts – see our guides to loans and credit cards in Denmark.
How payments work: Dankort and MobilePay
Denmark is almost entirely cashless. When you open an account you usually get a Dankort (the national debit card, often combined with Visa), and nearly everyone uses MobilePay – the mobile-payment app used everywhere from shops to splitting bills with friends. Between a card and MobilePay you rarely need cash.
FAQ about banking in Denmark
Every bank has different charges for its services. Fortunately, it is easy for you to access bank products from a wide range of banks on several online banking websites.
You can compare several banks based on different loans, like home loans and consumer loans. The comparison website also allows you to compare the price to set up a savings account and all the costs associated with it.
Also, you can compare the price of a debit card or a credit card that a particular bank offers and the interest amount for withdrawing an amount using ATM.
N26 is considered as the best Danish banks in Denmark. The mobile bank offers you complete digital banking solutions, that are transparent and straightforward. An app is also provided, which integrates with the most innovative technology. It enables you to live and bank your way and make your life easier.
Advantages
- You can gain access to a free bank account without any additional processing fees.
- All of the transactions are fully secured with 3D secure technology.
- You can easily keep track of all your transactions.
- The customer support service is available in different languages like English, Italian, German, Spanish, and French.
- The Bank App helps you to organize your finances efficiently.
If you want to switch your bank account in Denmark, it is not tough. Just find that bank in which you want to open your account. Then visit the branch and fulfil their requirements. As every bank is different, so there will be a difference in the services and products of the bank.
We advise you to compare the banks, their interest rates, services, loan price, etc. before switching banks.