DKNOpartners

Danish corporate form

DKNO Partners advises you and your business

Whatever the size of your business, you may need advice on how to get started financially. Our team has extensive experience across borders and can help you with advice, whatever your business.

Are you entering the Danish market?

We help you with the following tasks:

  • What Danish company forms are there?
  • Which company form should I choose?
  • IT solutions and Danish phone number.
  • Danish terms and conditions
  • GDPR
  • Establishing physical premises or stores
  • Freight and Customs clearance - which solution?
  • Business transfer
  • EORI number

Danish company forms

Personally owned businesses

Personally owned companies are businesses where the owner is personally liable for the company's debts and obligations. These types of companies are quick to set up, have no initial capital requirements and are suitable for small businesses and the self-employed.

  • Sole proprietorship (EV) - Owned by one person who is personally liable for all debts. Suitable for freelancers and small self-employed.
  • Personally owned small business (PMV) - Sole proprietorship without VAT registration, typically for hobby projects or start-up activities.
  • Partnership (I/S) - Owned by two or more persons who are personally and jointly liable for the company's obligations.

Capital companies

Limited liability companies are independent legal entities where the owners are only liable with their contributions. These companies require a minimum capital and are subject to accounting and reporting requirements.

  • Private limited company (ApS) - Requires an initial capital of 40,000 kr. and is suitable for small and medium-sized businesses. Owners are only liable with their deposits.
  • Public limited company (A/S) - Requires an initial capital of 400,000 kr. and is often used for larger organisations. Must have a board of directors and an executive board.
  • Partnership (P/S) - A combination of a limited liability company and a partnership, where at least one participant is personally liable, while others are only liable with their investment.

Other types of companies

In addition to sole proprietorships and limited liability companies, there are special types of companies that are used in specific situations, such as foreign companies or franchise partnerships.

  • Branch of foreign company - A foreign company can set up a branch in Denmark and conduct business under the responsibility of the parent company.
  • Franchise company - Not an actual company form, but a collaboration model where one company operates under another's brand and business concept.

What is an EORI number and how does it work in Denmark?

An EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification number) is a unique identifier for customs purposes in the EU. It consists of a country code and 1-15 numbers/letters. In Denmark, the CVR number is used as the EORI number, and if the company only has an SE number, this is used instead. The EORI number is necessary for companies that import or export goods as it ensures correct identification in customs systems.

Do you need to register a business in Denmark?

Learn about the process here:

  • Select company form

    Choose the type of company that best suits your business needs and risk appetite. Sole proprietorships and partnerships (I/S) are quick to register and require no minimum capital, but the owner is personally liable. Limited liability companies such as ApS and A/S have limited liability, but require a capital contribution and documentation.

  • Create articles of association and incorporation documents (relevant for limited liability companies)

    For limited liability companies, it is mandatory to prepare articles of association and incorporation documents that describe the company's purpose, management structure and ownership. These documents form the basis for the company's establishment and are necessary to obtain a CVR number. They also ensure that the company is run in accordance with the legal requirements in Denmark.

  • Initial capital contribution (relevant for limited liability companies)

    Limited liability companies such as ApS and A/S require a minimum capital contribution of DKK 40,000 and DKK 400,000 respectively. The capital is documented as a bank deposit or audit confirmation and serves as security for the company's creditors. Sole proprietorships and I/S have no capital requirements and can be set up without a capital contribution.

  • Register CVR number

    The CVR number is a company's unique identification in Denmark and is necessary to operate legally. You can apply for a CVR number at the Danish Business Authority, where sole traders, partnerships and limited companies can register. The number is used to identify the company in everything from tax reporting to public contact points.

  • Business registration

    After choosing a company form and obtaining a CVR number, the company must be registered with the Danish Business Authority. Depending on the company form, the registration may require additional information about e.g. management and ownership, especially for limited liability companies. Registration creates the company's official presence in Denmark.

  • VAT registration

    If your business is going to sell goods or services in Denmark, it must be registered for VAT. This is mandatory if the turnover exceeds DKK 50,000 annually. VAT registration ensures that your business correctly handles VAT on sales and purchases in Denmark and provides access to VAT deductions.

  • EORI number (for companies that trade internationally)

    If your company needs to import or export goods to or from the EU, it must have an EORI number. In Denmark, the company's CVR number is used as the EORI number, and if there is only an SE number, this is used instead. The EORI number is necessary for handling customs documentation and ensures correct identification in customs systems.

  • Create Danish bank account and NemKonto

    A Danish bank account is convenient for payments and ensures easy access to banking services in Danish kroner. NemKonto is a special account for public payments and all companies in Denmark must have a NemKonto for any repayments from the public sector.

  • Employee registration (if applicable)

    If your company has employees, it must be registered as an employer in Denmark. This involves ongoing reporting of A-tax and labour market contributions for employees. Employer registration ensures that the company complies with all Danish requirements regarding hiring and tax payments.

Contact us for help with the Danish company form

Do you need help registering your business in Denmark? We'll provide you with professional advice and support throughout the entire process - from choosing a company form to setting up a CVR number, VAT registration and much more. We make sure your business meets all Danish requirements and is ready to welcome customers.

Do you need further help with the application or registration? Contact us here