In Denmark, the high digitization of the system makes it possible to do most things online. A key component of this system is the NemKonto, which is the bank account into which funds from public institutions, such as tax refunds, vacation benefits and Feriepenge, are transferred. The choice of NemKonto is made by the employee, who can also opt for a bank account in another EU country. It is important that the chosen account is easily accessible and planned for long-term use.
The process of setting up a NemKonto in Denmark can be complicated, especially for those who have recently arrived in the country or are unfamiliar with local administrative procedures. To make it easier, Atrum offers full assistance in setting up a NemKont. With our support, you can be sure that all the formalities will be carried out correctly, quickly and without unnecessary difficulties, giving you comfort and reassurance.
What is a Danish NemKonto?
Every person residing and working in Denmark should have a standard bank account, known as a NemKonto. This account is used to collect all debts from public institutions. Any account can be designated, whether new or existing. Receivables such as labor wages, tax refunds, vacation fund payments (feriepenge), child allowances, housing allowances, unemployment benefits and pensions are transferred specifically to the NemKonto.
The project to digitize the Danish public sector also includes NemKonto. With NemKonto, public entities in Denmark can directly transfer funds to the taxpayer's bank account. NemKonto registration is fully secure and improves the efficiency of information exchange between citizens and Danish institutions.
Establishing a NemKonto as soon as possible after starting work in Denmark is crucial to be able to collect all the funds to which you are entitled. Assigning an account as a NemKonto should not be postponed - getting it done quickly is beneficial. If you need assistance with registering a NemKonto, we provide the following.
It is important to set up this account as soon as possible after you start working in Denmark, so that you can receive all the funds due to you. It is not worth delaying in assigning the account as a NemKonto - the sooner you get it done, the better. If you need support in setting up a NemKonto, we are happy to help.
Managing finances with NemKonto
With NemKonto, Danes can effectively manage their finances and seamlessly receive payments from public institutions. It is a key financial tool that facilitates access to the numerous benefits offered by the state to citizens. The convenience and security offered by NemKonto make it possible to receive funds from various public institutions quickly. Managing finances becomes simpler, as it is no longer necessary to pick up checks or visit administrative offices.
Who needs a NemKonto and when it becomes mandatory in Denmark
NemKonto is a mandatory payment solution for almost everyone who has an ongoing financial relationship with the Danish public sector. In practice, this means that if you live, work, run a business or receive public payments in Denmark, you are expected to have a NemKonto linked to a bank account.
Who is required to have a NemKonto?
The obligation to have a NemKonto applies to both individuals and legal entities that can receive payments from Danish public authorities. This includes in particular:
- Residents with a CPR number – if you are registered in the Danish Civil Registration System (CPR) and live in Denmark on a permanent or long-term basis, you are expected to designate a NemKonto.
- Employees working in Denmark – if you receive salary, holiday pay, unemployment benefits or other work-related payments from Danish employers or authorities, you need a NemKonto for correct and timely payouts.
- Students – if you receive SU (state education grant), student loans or other public support, a NemKonto is required for these payments.
- Recipients of social benefits – such as child benefits, housing benefits, sickness benefits, maternity or paternity benefits, cash assistance and other welfare payments.
- Pensioners – if you receive state pension, early retirement benefits or other public pension schemes, they are paid to your NemKonto.
- Taxpayers entitled to refunds – if you pay tax in Denmark and may receive tax refunds, SKAT (the Danish Tax Agency) pays refunds to your NemKonto.
- Companies and self‑employed persons with a CVR number – all Danish-registered businesses, including sole proprietors, must have a NemKonto for VAT refunds, tax settlements, public subsidies and other payments from authorities.
- Associations and organisations – non‑profits, sports clubs and other registered entities that receive public grants or refunds must also designate a NemKonto.
When does NemKonto become mandatory for individuals?
For private persons, NemKonto becomes practically mandatory as soon as you start interacting financially with the Danish public sector. Typical situations when you are expected to have a NemKonto include:
- you register a CPR number and move to Denmark as a resident
- you start a job in Denmark and receive salary, holiday pay or unemployment insurance payments
- you begin to receive public benefits, such as SU, child benefits or housing benefits
- you become entitled to a tax refund from SKAT
- you reach retirement age and start receiving Danish state pension or early retirement benefits
In many cases, authorities will not pay out money by cheque or manual bank transfer if you do not have a NemKonto. Instead, payments can be delayed or blocked until a NemKonto is registered. This is why setting up NemKonto should be treated as a priority shortly after obtaining your CPR number and Danish bank account.
When is NemKonto mandatory for foreigners and non‑residents?
You may be required to have a NemKonto even if you are not permanently resident in Denmark. NemKonto becomes relevant for foreigners and non‑residents when:
- you work in Denmark on a temporary basis and are taxed in Denmark
- you receive tax refunds from SKAT after short‑term work or limited tax liability
- you receive Danish public benefits or pension payments while living abroad
- you are a foreign student receiving SU or other Danish public support
In these situations, you can usually link a Danish bank account to your NemKonto. In some cases, it is also possible to use a foreign bank account, but this may involve additional requirements and processing time, and not all types of payments can be sent to foreign accounts. For most people with regular income or benefits from Denmark, opening a Danish bank account and connecting it to NemKonto is the most practical solution.
NemKonto obligation for companies and self‑employed
For businesses, NemKonto is not optional. Once you have a Danish CVR number (business registration number), you must designate a NemKonto for your company or sole proprietorship. This is necessary for:
- VAT and tax refunds from SKAT
- payment of public subsidies, grants or compensation schemes
- refunds of overpaid duties, fees or charges
- various payments from municipalities, regions and state authorities
The NemKonto for a business must be linked to a bank account that belongs to the company or to the self‑employed person in their capacity as a business owner. It cannot be freely mixed with a private NemKonto, even if you are a sole proprietor.
Is it possible to live in Denmark without a NemKonto?
Technically, you can hold a CPR number without immediately registering a NemKonto, but in practice this quickly becomes problematic. Without a NemKonto you may experience:
- delays in receiving tax refunds, benefits or pension payments
- problems with salary payments from some public employers
- additional manual processing or correspondence with authorities
Because almost all public payments are routed through NemKonto, Danish authorities treat it as the standard and mandatory solution. Even if you currently do not receive any public money, it is recommended to set up NemKonto early, so that any future payments can be made automatically without extra steps.
Summary: when NemKonto is mandatory in practice
You should consider NemKonto mandatory if any of the following apply:
- you have a CPR number and live in Denmark for work, study or family reasons
- you pay tax in Denmark and may receive a refund
- you receive or expect to receive any public benefit, grant, pension or subsidy
- you run a business or are self‑employed with a CVR number
- you are a foreigner who receives Danish public payments, even while living abroad
Setting up NemKonto early ensures that salaries, benefits, tax refunds and other public payments are transferred correctly and on time, and helps you avoid unnecessary administrative issues with Danish authorities.
NemKonto requirements for foreigners, expats and new residents
Foreigners, expats and new residents in Denmark are generally subject to the same NemKonto rules as Danish citizens, but the registration process and required documents can differ. If you live, work or receive public payments in Denmark, you will almost always need a NemKonto so that authorities can pay out tax refunds, benefits, pensions, student grants and other public payments directly to your bank account.
Do you need a NemKonto as a foreigner?
You are expected to have a NemKonto if at least one of the following applies:
- you have a Danish CPR number and are registered as living in Denmark
- you work in Denmark and pay Danish tax, even if you live abroad (cross‑border worker)
- you receive or expect to receive payments from Danish public authorities (for example SKAT, Udbetaling Danmark, your municipality or a Danish university)
- you run a business or are self‑employed in Denmark and have a CVR number
If you only visit Denmark as a tourist and do not receive any public payments, you normally do not need a NemKonto.
Basic requirements for NemKonto registration
To register a NemKonto you must meet these basic conditions:
- have a valid Danish CPR number or, in some cases, a foreign ID registered with the Danish authorities
- have a bank account in your own name – either in a Danish bank or, if you live abroad, in a foreign bank that can receive international transfers
- be able to identify yourself with valid ID (typically passport or national ID card) when required by the bank or NemKonto support
Most residents choose a Danish bank account as their NemKonto, because payments from authorities are then made in Danish kroner without extra international transfer fees or currency conversion costs.
NemKonto and CPR number
For expats who move to Denmark, the CPR number is the key to NemKonto registration. In practice, the usual order is:
- register your address and obtain a CPR number at the local citizen service (Borgerservice)
- open a Danish bank account in your name
- designate that account as your NemKonto
Without a CPR number, you cannot use most self‑service solutions and digital services related to NemKonto, MitID and e‑Boks. If you are a cross‑border worker, you can often obtain a CPR or tax number via the Danish Tax Agency before or shortly after starting work.
Required documents for foreigners and new residents
Banks and authorities in Denmark follow strict anti‑money‑laundering and “know your customer” rules. As a foreigner, you should be prepared to show more documentation than a Danish citizen. Typical documents include:
- valid passport (or national ID card for EU/EEA citizens)
- Danish CPR number documentation or confirmation from the Civil Registration System
- residence permit or registration certificate, if required for your nationality
- proof of address in Denmark (for example rental contract or official letter)
- employment contract, student admission letter or other proof of your connection to Denmark
Each bank can ask for additional information, for example about the origin of your funds or your expected income, before allowing you to open an account that can be used as a NemKonto.
EU/EEA citizens vs. non‑EU citizens
EU/EEA citizens who move to Denmark usually register their right of residence and obtain a CPR number relatively quickly. Once you have your CPR number and a Danish bank account, setting up a NemKonto is normally straightforward.
Non‑EU citizens often need a valid residence and work permit before they can register their address and get a CPR number. This can delay the NemKonto process. If you start working in Denmark before receiving your residence card, your employer and the tax authorities may use temporary arrangements, but you will still need a NemKonto as soon as your CPR number is issued.
Using a foreign bank account as NemKonto
If you live abroad or have not yet opened a Danish bank account, it is possible in many cases to register a foreign bank account as your NemKonto. Important points to consider:
- the account must be in your own name
- you must provide full international bank details (IBAN and BIC/SWIFT)
- payments will be sent in Danish kroner and converted by your foreign bank, which may charge currency and transfer fees
- processing times for international payments are usually longer than for Danish domestic transfers
For long‑term residents, a Danish bank account is usually more practical and cheaper for receiving regular payments such as salary, child benefits or pensions.
Students, researchers and short‑term workers
International students, PhD candidates, researchers and seasonal workers often have time‑limited stays in Denmark but still need a NemKonto. You will normally need:
- a CPR number (for example as a student or worker)
- a Danish or foreign bank account in your name
Even if you plan to stay for less than one year, you may receive tax refunds, student grants, housing benefits or other payments that require a NemKonto. Setting it up early helps avoid delays and manual cheque or cash payments, which are rarely used in Denmark.
NemKonto without MitID
Many digital self‑service solutions for NemKonto require MitID. As a new resident you might not have MitID immediately. In that case you can usually:
- ask your Danish bank to register your account as NemKonto on your behalf once your identity is verified
- contact NemKonto support or relevant authorities and follow their paper or in‑person procedures
Once you obtain MitID, you can log in to self‑service portals to check or change which account is linked to your NemKonto.
Common challenges for expats and how to handle them
Foreigners and new residents often experience similar issues when setting up NemKonto:
- Delays in receiving CPR number: without CPR, banks may refuse to open a standard account. In this situation, stay in close contact with your municipality and employer, and ask your bank whether they offer any temporary solutions.
- Bank account opening refused or delayed: banks are allowed to assess risk and may ask for extra documentation. Prepare all relevant papers in advance and, if necessary, try more than one bank.
- International transfers to foreign NemKonto: if you use a foreign account, check fees and exchange rates with your bank so you know how much of a Danish public payment you will actually receive.
For most foreigners, once the CPR number and bank account are in place, NemKonto registration is a one‑time step that makes everyday life in Denmark easier. It ensures that you receive salary, tax refunds and public benefits securely and on time, without having to manage manual payments from different authorities.
How to choose or change the bank account linked to your NemKonto
Choosing or changing the bank account linked to your NemKonto is usually straightforward, but it is important to do it correctly so that you continue to receive salary, tax refunds, benefits and other public payments on time. You can link any Danish bank account to your NemKonto, and in some cases also a foreign account, as long as it meets the technical requirements set by the Danish NemKonto system.
What type of bank account can be used as NemKonto?
Your NemKonto can be:
- a private current account (most common option)
- a joint account (for example with a spouse or partner)
- a business account (for companies or self‑employed)
- in some cases, a foreign bank account in the EU/EEA or selected countries outside the EU, if it supports international transfers in DKK or EUR and has a valid IBAN/BIC
The account must allow incoming transfers and not be blocked for public payments. Savings accounts, investment accounts or accounts with withdrawal restrictions are usually not suitable as NemKonto.
How to choose the right account for your NemKonto
When deciding which account to link to your NemKonto, consider:
- Regular income and expenses: Use an account you actively use for everyday payments, so you can easily track incoming public payments.
- Overdraft and fees: Check if your bank charges fees for incoming international payments if you choose a foreign account, and whether an overdraft could be offset against incoming public money.
- Joint vs. personal account: A joint account is allowed, but can make it harder to separate your personal finances from your partner’s. For self‑employed, keeping a clear separation between private and business accounts is strongly recommended.
- Currency: A DKK account in a Danish bank is usually the most practical, as public authorities pay out in Danish kroner. Using a foreign currency account may lead to exchange rate costs.
How to register or change your NemKonto online
If you have MitID and a Danish CPR number, the fastest way to choose or change the account linked to your NemKonto is online:
- Go to the official NemKonto self‑service website (NemKonto Selvbetjening).
- Log in with your MitID.
- Select the option to register or change your NemKonto.
- Choose whether you want to use:
- an account in a Danish bank (enter your registration number and account number), or
- a foreign account (enter IBAN, BIC/SWIFT and any additional details requested).
- Confirm and submit the change.
In most cases, the change takes effect either the same day or the next banking day. Public authorities will then automatically send future payments to the new NemKonto account. Payments already processed or initiated before the change will still be sent to the previous account.
Changing NemKonto directly through your bank
Many Danish banks can register or change your NemKonto on your behalf. The exact process depends on the bank, but typically you can:
- request the change in your online banking or mobile banking app
- contact customer service by phone or secure message
- visit a branch and sign a NemKonto registration form
The bank then reports your chosen account to the NemKonto system. You should receive a confirmation from the bank or via e‑Boks once the change is completed.
Registering a foreign bank account as NemKonto
If you do not have a Danish bank account, or you prefer to receive public payments abroad, you can in many cases register a foreign account as your NemKonto. The account must:
- have a valid IBAN (for EU/EEA and many other countries)
- have a correct BIC/SWIFT code
- be able to receive international transfers in DKK or EUR
To register a foreign account, you usually need to fill in a specific NemKonto form for foreign accounts and provide documentation from your foreign bank (for example, a bank statement or confirmation letter showing IBAN, BIC and your name). Processing can take longer than for a Danish account, and your bank abroad may charge fees for incoming transfers or currency conversion.
How long does a NemKonto change take?
For Danish bank accounts, a NemKonto change is typically processed within one banking day after you submit it online or through your bank. For foreign accounts, processing can take several banking days, depending on the documentation and checks required.
To avoid delays in receiving salary, SU, unemployment benefits, pensions or tax refunds, it is advisable to update your NemKonto before:
- closing an old bank account
- switching banks in Denmark
- moving abroad and changing to a foreign account
What happens if you close the account linked to your NemKonto?
If you close the bank account currently registered as your NemKonto and do not register a new one, public payments may fail or be delayed. In some cases, payments can be held temporarily by the authorities until you register a new NemKonto. You will not lose the right to the money, but you will not receive it until a valid account is linked again.
Before closing an account, always:
- register a new NemKonto account online or via your bank
- wait for confirmation that the new NemKonto is active
- only then close the old account
How to check which account is currently linked to your NemKonto
You can at any time verify which account is registered as your NemKonto by:
- logging in to the NemKonto self‑service with your MitID and checking the account details
- asking your Danish bank to confirm which of your accounts is registered as NemKonto
It is a good idea to check this whenever you change banks, move abroad, or notice that expected public payments have not arrived.
NemKonto for companies and self‑employed
Companies, sole proprietors and other legal entities with a CVR number must have a separate NemKonto linked to their business. This NemKonto is used for VAT refunds, tax refunds, public grants and other business‑related payments. It should normally be a business account, not a private account, to keep private and business finances clearly separated and to comply with Danish bookkeeping and tax rules.
Changing the NemKonto for a company is done in a similar way as for private individuals, either via the NemKonto self‑service for businesses (using MitID Erhverv) or through the company’s bank.
When you should review or change your NemKonto
You should consider updating your NemKonto when:
- you change bank or open a new main account
- you start or stop being self‑employed and need to separate private and business NemKonto
- you move to or from Denmark and want to use a foreign account
- you get married, divorced or change your financial setup (for example, from joint to separate accounts)
Keeping your NemKonto up to date ensures that all payments from Danish public authorities reach you quickly and securely, without unnecessary delays or manual corrections.
NemKonto for companies and self‑employed: key differences from private NemKonto
NemKonto for businesses and self‑employed works on the same basic principle as a private NemKonto: it is the default bank account used by Danish public authorities to pay money to you. However, the rules, registration process and practical use are different when you operate through a company or as a sole trader.
NemKonto for companies (ApS, A/S, IVS, etc.)
Every Danish company with a CVR number must have a NemKonto linked to that CVR. This applies to ApS, A/S, partnerships (I/S, K/S), associations and most other registered entities. Public authorities use the company NemKonto to pay, for example:
- VAT and tax refunds from Skattestyrelsen
- Refunds of overpaid labour market contributions and A‑tax withheld from employees
- Public subsidies, grants and support schemes
- Municipal refunds, e.g. wage subsidies or reimbursement of sickness benefits paid to employees
- Other payments from state, regions and municipalities related to the company’s CVR
The NemKonto must be a business bank account opened in the company’s name and linked to its CVR. A private account in the owner’s name cannot normally be used as the official NemKonto for a registered company, even if you are the only owner or director.
To register a company NemKonto, you usually need:
- A Danish business bank account with a valid account number (reg.nr. + kontonr.)
- The company’s CVR number
- Authorised access to NemKonto self‑service or a power of attorney from the company
Registration is done either via the company’s bank (many banks offer NemKonto registration as part of onboarding) or directly in NemKonto’s online self‑service using MitID Erhverv. Only persons with the right signing authority or explicit authorisation can change the company’s NemKonto.
NemKonto for self‑employed and sole proprietors
If you run a sole proprietorship (enkeltmandsvirksomhed) or are registered as self‑employed under your CPR and CVR, you will typically need two NemKonto setups:
- Private NemKonto linked to your CPR – for personal payments such as tax refunds, SU, pensions or social benefits
- Business NemKonto linked to your CVR – for business‑related payments such as VAT refunds, tax adjustments and public subsidies to your activity
In some simple sole‑trader setups, the same bank account can technically be linked to both CPR and CVR. However, from an accounting and tax perspective it is highly recommended to keep a clear separation between private and business finances. Using a dedicated business account as your CVR NemKonto makes bookkeeping, VAT reporting and SKAT audits significantly easier.
As a self‑employed person you are responsible for ensuring that:
- Your private NemKonto is correctly linked to your CPR for personal matters
- Your business NemKonto is correctly linked to your CVR for all business payments from public authorities
- Changes in bank accounts are updated promptly so that VAT and tax refunds are not delayed
Key differences between private and business NemKonto
While the technical system behind NemKonto is the same, there are important differences in how private and business NemKonto are used and managed:
- Identification: A private NemKonto is linked to your CPR number, while a business NemKonto is linked to a CVR number. Many self‑employed have both.
- Type of payments: Private NemKonto receives salary from public employers, SU, pensions, social benefits and personal tax refunds. Business NemKonto receives VAT refunds, company tax refunds, grants, wage subsidies and other payments related to the company’s CVR.
- Who can manage it: A private NemKonto is managed by the individual via MitID. A business NemKonto is managed by persons with company signing rights or delegated access via MitID Erhverv or bank authorisations.
- Bank account requirements: For companies, the NemKonto must correspond to a bank account that belongs to the legal entity with the CVR. For private NemKonto, the account must belong to the person with the CPR. Mixing owners (e.g. using a director’s personal account as company NemKonto) is generally not accepted.
- Accounting impact: Payments to a private NemKonto are part of your personal finances. Payments to a business NemKonto must be recorded in the company’s accounts and may affect VAT, corporate tax and income tax for the owner.
Why correct NemKonto setup matters for businesses and freelancers
An incorrect or missing NemKonto for your company or self‑employed activity can lead to delayed VAT refunds, blocked tax repayments and problems receiving public support schemes. It can also create confusion in your bookkeeping if business payments are accidentally sent to a private NemKonto.
For limited liability companies, using a proper business NemKonto helps maintain the legal separation between company and owner. For sole proprietors and freelancers, having a clear distinction between CPR and CVR NemKonto makes it easier to document income and expenses to Skattestyrelsen and reduces the risk of mixing private and business funds.
If you are unsure whether your current account is correctly registered as NemKonto for your CVR, it is advisable to check it via NemKonto self‑service or contact your bank or accountant to avoid issues with future public payments.
Typical payments you receive via NemKonto (salary, benefits, tax refunds, pensions)
NemKonto is the standard way Danish authorities pay money to individuals and businesses. Instead of sending cheques or asking for bank details every time, public institutions use the bank account you have registered as your NemKonto. Understanding which payments go through NemKonto helps you avoid delays, missed deadlines and unexpected letters from the authorities.
Most public payments are made in Danish kroner (DKK) directly to your NemKonto, usually within 1–2 banking days after the payment has been approved by the authority.
Salary and fees from public employers
If you work for the public sector, your employer will normally pay your salary to your NemKonto. This includes:
- Municipal, regional and state employees (e.g. teachers, nurses, civil servants)
- Students working as teaching assistants or in other public student jobs
- Freelancers or external consultants paid by a public authority, if they are paid as individuals
Salary is paid according to your employment contract, but the transfer itself goes to the NemKonto registered under your CPR number. If you change bank, you must update your NemKonto to avoid salary going to a closed account.
Tax refunds and SKAT payments
The Danish Tax Agency (Skattestyrelsen) uses NemKonto for almost all outgoing payments to taxpayers. Typical examples are:
- Annual tax refund (årsopgørelse) – if your final tax assessment shows that you have overpaid tax, the refund is paid automatically to your NemKonto, usually shortly after the assessment is final.
- Ongoing tax corrections – if Skattestyrelsen adjusts your tax during the year and owes you money, the amount is transferred to your NemKonto.
- VAT and duty refunds for sole proprietors – if you run a small business as a sole trader and are personally registered for VAT, refunds are paid to your personal or business NemKonto, depending on your setup.
There is no minimum amount for a tax refund to be paid via NemKonto. Even small corrections are normally transferred electronically rather than by cheque.
Social benefits and allowances
Municipalities and Udbetaling Danmark use NemKonto to pay most social benefits and family-related allowances. Common examples include:
- Unemployment benefits (dagpenge) from an unemployment insurance fund (a-kasse), which are typically paid monthly in arrears to your NemKonto.
- Social assistance (kontanthjælp) and educational assistance (uddannelseshjælp) for people with low or no income, paid by the municipality.
- Sickness benefits (sygedagpenge) when you are on sick leave and meet the qualifying conditions.
- Maternity and paternity benefits (barselsdagpenge) during parental leave, paid by Udbetaling Danmark.
- Child and youth benefits, such as the ordinary child and youth benefit (børne- og ungeydelse) and child allowance (børnetilskud), if you are entitled to them.
- Housing benefit (boligstøtte) for eligible tenants, usually paid monthly.
These benefits are means-tested or condition-based. The payment schedule (for example, monthly or every quarter) is set by law or administrative rules, but the destination account is always your NemKonto unless a specific exception applies.
Pensions and retirement-related payments
Public pensions and related benefits are also paid via NemKonto. This includes:
- State old-age pension (folkepension) for residents who have reached the official pension age and meet the residency requirements.
- Early retirement pension (førtidspension) for people granted disability or reduced work capacity.
- Senior pension and early retirement schemes administered by the authorities.
- Supplementary benefits such as certain pension supplements and heating allowances for low-income pensioners.
Pensions are usually paid monthly in advance to your NemKonto. If you move abroad and are still entitled to a Danish state pension, payments can in many cases continue to your NemKonto or to a foreign account, but NemKonto remains the standard solution while you are resident in Denmark.
Education-related payments
Students and trainees also receive several types of payments via NemKonto, for example:
- State education grant (SU – Statens Uddannelsesstøtte) for eligible students in upper secondary and higher education.
- SU loans paid out together with or in addition to the grant.
- Apprentice and trainee subsidies paid by public schemes in some vocational programmes.
SU is typically paid monthly, provided you meet the study activity and income requirements. If your NemKonto is not correctly registered, your SU payment can be delayed or put on hold until the account is updated.
Health reimbursements and other public refunds
Several smaller but important payments from the public sector also go through NemKonto, such as:
- Reimbursement of certain healthcare expenses, for example, partial refunds for physiotherapy or dental treatment when covered by the public system.
- Travel expense reimbursements from public authorities, courts or municipalities.
- Refunds of overpaid public fees, fines or charges, when a decision is changed or cancelled.
- Compensation and damages awarded by public bodies in specific cases.
Authorities will normally not ask for your bank details each time. They rely on the NemKonto linked to your CPR or CVR number, which is why keeping it up to date is essential.
Typical NemKonto payments for companies and self‑employed
If you run a company or are self‑employed, your business NemKonto is used for payments related to your CVR number, for example:
- VAT refunds when your input VAT exceeds your output VAT for a period.
- Refunds of payroll tax, energy taxes or other duties where the business is entitled to a repayment.
- Public subsidies and grants for businesses, such as innovation or export support schemes.
- Compensation schemes in special situations, for example, state compensation during extraordinary events when such schemes are in place.
Business-related payments are not normally sent to a private NemKonto. If you are both a private individual and a business owner, you will typically have one NemKonto for your CPR number and a separate NemKonto for your CVR number.
What is usually not paid via NemKonto
Some payments do not go through NemKonto, even if they come from public or semi-public entities. Examples include:
- Private salary from non-public employers, unless they choose to use your NemKonto account details voluntarily.
- Private insurance payouts from commercial insurance companies.
- Payments between private individuals, such as MobilePay transfers or bank transfers from friends and family.
- Most private pension payouts from commercial pension providers, unless they use the same bank account you have registered as NemKonto.
In these cases, the payer uses the bank account details you have given them directly, not the NemKonto system itself.
Why it matters to keep your NemKonto updated
Because so many critical payments are made via NemKonto, an incorrect or closed account can lead to:
- Delayed salary, benefits or pensions
- Tax refunds that cannot be paid out on time
- Letters and reminders from authorities about failed transfers
If you change bank, close an account or start a business, always update your NemKonto details as soon as possible. This ensures that all typical payments – salary from public employers, benefits, tax refunds, pensions and other public transfers – continue to arrive safely and on time.
How NemKonto works with CPR number, MitID and e-Boks
NemKonto is closely connected to three key elements of the Danish digital system: your CPR number, MitID and e‑Boks. Understanding how these work together makes it easier to register your NemKonto correctly, receive public payments and handle your communication with Danish authorities.
NemKonto and your CPR number
Your CPR number is your unique civil registration number in Denmark. For private individuals, NemKonto is always linked to a CPR number, not directly to your name or address. When a public authority pays you money, they use your CPR number to identify your NemKonto.
In practice this means:
- You can only have one active NemKonto per CPR number at a time
- All public payments (for example tax refunds, SU, child benefits, pensions) are sent to the bank account registered as NemKonto for that CPR number
- If you change bank, you must update the NemKonto registration for the same CPR number – otherwise payments will still go to the old account
Foreigners and new residents usually receive a CPR number after registering their address in Denmark with the local municipality. Without a CPR number, you cannot set up a standard private NemKonto, and you may instead need a temporary solution agreed with the relevant authority until your CPR is issued.
NemKonto and MitID
MitID is the national digital ID used to log in securely to public self‑service solutions and online banking in Denmark. You normally need MitID to register, change or check your NemKonto online.
MitID is used for NemKonto in two main ways:
- Identification and login: When you access NemKonto self‑service or your online bank to set or change your NemKonto, you log in with MitID. This confirms that the person making changes is the holder of the CPR number.
- Digital signing: In some cases you must approve or sign changes digitally. MitID is used to sign the registration of a new NemKonto or the change of the linked bank account.
If you do not yet have MitID, you can usually:
- Obtain MitID through your Danish bank or a citizen service centre (Borgerservice), once you have a CPR number and valid ID
- Ask your bank to help you register or change your NemKonto at the branch, where they confirm your identity manually
For most residents, using MitID is the fastest way to manage NemKonto, because changes take effect quickly and you can handle everything online.
NemKonto and e‑Boks
e‑Boks is the secure digital mailbox used by Danish public authorities and many private companies to send official letters and documents. While e‑Boks is not directly used to pay money to your NemKonto, it is an important part of how you receive information about payments and your registration.
In relation to NemKonto, e‑Boks is typically used for:
- Letters confirming that your NemKonto has been created or changed
- Notifications about public payments, such as tax refunds, benefits or pensions, that are transferred to your NemKonto
- Requests for additional information if there is a problem with your NemKonto registration or your bank account details
Once you have a CPR number and MitID, you are usually required to use a digital mailbox such as e‑Boks for communication with Danish authorities. It is therefore important to log in regularly and read messages, especially if you have recently changed bank or moved abroad, as this can affect your NemKonto.
How these systems work together in practice
In everyday use, NemKonto, CPR, MitID and e‑Boks form one integrated digital flow:
- You receive a CPR number when you register in Denmark.
- You obtain MitID, usually via your bank or Borgerservice, linked to your CPR number.
- You log in with MitID to your online bank or NemKonto self‑service and choose which bank account should be your NemKonto for that CPR number.
- Public authorities use your CPR number to send payments directly to the registered NemKonto.
- You receive confirmations, payment overviews and other official messages in e‑Boks.
If any of these elements are missing or incorrect – for example, if your CPR number is not correctly registered with your bank, your MitID is blocked, or you do not read messages in e‑Boks – you may experience delays or problems with NemKonto payments. Keeping your CPR data, MitID access and e‑Boks up to date is therefore essential for smooth NemKonto operation.
Common problems with NemKonto registration and how to solve them
NemKonto registration is usually straightforward, but many foreigners, expats and new companies in Denmark run into similar issues. Below you will find the most common problems, why they happen, and what you can do to solve them as quickly as possible.
1. No CPR number yet – can I register a NemKonto?
To have a standard NemKonto in Denmark, you normally need a Danish CPR number. Without a CPR, the system cannot link your bank account to public payments such as tax refunds or benefits.
If you do not have a CPR number yet, you generally have two options:
- Wait until you receive your CPR and then register a NemKonto through your Danish bank or online via NemKonto self‑service (using MitID).
- Ask the paying authority (for example, Udbetaling Danmark or SKAT) if they can pay to a foreign bank account temporarily. This is sometimes possible, but not guaranteed and may involve extra checks or fees from your foreign bank.
Once you receive your CPR, register a NemKonto as soon as possible so that future payments are made automatically to your Danish account.
2. Problems with MitID when registering NemKonto online
Many people try to set up or change their NemKonto via the NemKonto self‑service but cannot log in with MitID. Typical reasons include:
- Your MitID is not fully activated or has been blocked after too many wrong attempts
- Your MitID is linked to a different CPR number than the one your bank uses
- You are trying to log in from a device where the MitID app is not installed or not updated
To solve MitID issues:
- Check that your MitID app is updated and that you are using the correct user ID
- Reset or unblock MitID via your bank or the official MitID support if necessary
- Verify that your CPR number is correctly registered with both your bank and MitID
If you cannot use MitID at all, you can usually ask your bank to register or change your NemKonto for you at a branch, using your passport or national ID card.
3. Bank account not accepted as NemKonto
Sometimes the account you want to use is rejected during NemKonto registration. Common reasons are:
- The account is not in your name (for example, it belongs to your spouse, employer or a friend)
- The account is a special type that cannot be used as NemKonto (for example, certain savings or investment accounts)
- The account is closed or blocked by the bank
NemKonto must be linked to an account where you are the legal account holder. Joint accounts are usually allowed if your name appears as one of the holders. If your account is not eligible, ask your bank which of your accounts can be used as NemKonto and have them register that one instead.
4. Foreign bank account and NemKonto
In some situations, it is possible to register a foreign bank account as NemKonto, but this is more complex and not all types of payments can be made to foreign accounts. Typical issues include:
- Missing or incorrect IBAN and BIC/SWIFT codes
- Delays or extra fees for international transfers
- Public authorities refusing to pay certain benefits to a foreign account
If you want to use a foreign account, you must provide full and correct international bank details. However, for most residents in Denmark, opening a Danish bank account and using it as NemKonto is strongly recommended to avoid delays and extra costs.
5. Name or address mismatch between CPR, bank and NemKonto
NemKonto relies on consistent data across different systems. If your name or address is different in the CPR register, at your bank and in other public databases, your NemKonto registration can be delayed or rejected.
Typical examples:
- Your name is spelled differently at the bank than in the CPR register
- You changed your address or marital name, but one of the systems still has the old data
To fix this, update your details in the following order:
- Make sure your CPR data is correct with the Danish National Register (Folkeregisteret)
- Ask your bank to update your name and address to match your CPR information exactly
- After the updates, ask the bank to confirm or re‑register your NemKonto
6. NemKonto not active after moving to a new bank
When you change banks in Denmark, your old NemKonto does not always move automatically to your new account. This can lead to missing or delayed payments from public authorities or your employer.
To avoid this problem:
- Ask your new bank to register one of your new accounts as your NemKonto immediately after opening it
- Check your NemKonto status via NemKonto self‑service (with MitID) to confirm which account is currently registered
If a payment was sent to your old NemKonto after you closed that account, contact both your old bank and the paying authority to trace and re‑issue the payment.
7. Employer or authority cannot see your NemKonto
Sometimes an employer, municipality or other authority claims they cannot pay you because they “do not see” your NemKonto. This usually happens when:
- Your NemKonto was registered very recently and the update has not yet propagated in all systems
- Your CPR number is not correctly registered in the payer’s system
- The payment is being made to a CVR (company) number instead of your CPR, or vice versa
To solve this:
- Confirm with your bank that your NemKonto is active and linked to your CPR or CVR
- Ask the payer to double‑check that they are using the correct CPR or CVR number
- Allow for a short processing time after changing NemKonto before expecting new payments
8. Company NemKonto registration issues
For companies and self‑employed with a CVR number, NemKonto registration can fail if:
- The company is not properly registered in the Danish Business Register (CVR)
- The person trying to register the NemKonto does not have the right signatory or representation rights
- The business bank account is not clearly linked to the company’s CVR number
To fix company NemKonto problems:
- Check that your company’s data in CVR is correct and up to date
- Ensure that the person handling the registration is listed as an authorised signatory
- Ask your bank to confirm that the account is registered under the company’s CVR, not your personal CPR
If you are self‑employed, remember that your private NemKonto (linked to your CPR) and your business NemKonto (linked to your CVR) are separate and may use different accounts.
9. Missing or delayed payments despite an active NemKonto
Even with a correctly registered NemKonto, payments can be delayed or missing. Common reasons include:
- Processing times at the paying authority or your bank
- Incorrect payment information (for example, wrong CPR or CVR number used by the payer)
- Holidays and weekends affecting transfer dates
If a payment is missing:
- Check your bank account statement for the expected period
- Log in to your online tax or benefit portal (for example, via skat.dk or borger.dk) to see if the payment has been created
- Contact the paying authority with your CPR or CVR number and ask when and to which account the payment was sent
If the authority confirms that the payment was sent to your NemKonto, your bank can trace the transaction and clarify what happened.
10. Technical errors on the NemKonto website
Occasionally, users experience technical errors when trying to use the NemKonto self‑service, such as pages not loading or error messages after logging in. In such cases:
- Try again using a different browser or device
- Clear your browser cache and cookies and log in again with MitID
- Check if there is any planned maintenance or known outage reported on official Danish public service websites
If the problem continues, you can usually solve NemKonto issues by contacting your bank directly or calling the relevant public authority instead of using the online self‑service.
If you are unsure why your NemKonto registration is not working, gather your CPR or CVR number, bank account details and any error messages you received. With this information, your bank, the NemKonto support line or a professional accounting firm in Denmark can quickly identify the problem and help you complete the registration correctly.
How to check, update or deactivate your NemKonto details
Once your NemKonto is set up, it is important to check regularly that the right bank account is linked and that your details are up to date. This ensures that salary, tax refunds, SU, pensions and other public payments arrive on time and to the correct account. Below you will find the main ways to check, update or deactivate your NemKonto in Denmark.
How to check which account is registered as your NemKonto
You can see your current NemKonto details online if you have MitID:
- Go to the official NemKonto self‑service portal at nemkonto.dk.
- Choose the self‑service for Private (or Business if you are checking a company NemKonto).
- Log in with your MitID.
- On the overview page you will see:
- the bank account number (reg. no. and account no.) registered as your NemKonto
- the date from which this account has been active as your NemKonto
- whether the account is registered in a Danish or foreign bank
If you do not have MitID yet, you can ask your Danish bank to confirm which account is currently registered as your NemKonto, or contact NemKonto Support by phone and verify your identity.
How to update your NemKonto to a different bank account
You can change your NemKonto at any time. The change usually takes effect the same day, but in some cases it may take up to a few banking days before all authorities use the new account.
Option 1: Change NemKonto via your bank
Most people find it easiest to update NemKonto directly through their Danish bank:
- Log in to your online banking or mobile banking app.
- Look for a menu point such as “NemKonto”, “Public payments” or “Offentlige udbetalinger”.
- Select which of your accounts should be your new NemKonto.
- Approve the change. The bank then reports the new NemKonto to the central NemKonto system.
If you prefer, you can also visit a bank branch and ask an adviser to register a new NemKonto for you. Remember to bring valid ID.
Option 2: Change NemKonto via nemkonto.dk
If your bank does not offer NemKonto self‑service, or if you want to use a foreign bank account, you can change your NemKonto on the official portal:
- Go to nemkonto.dk and log in with MitID.
- Choose the self‑service for private individuals.
- Enter the details of the new account:
- for a Danish account: registration number and account number
- for a foreign account: IBAN, BIC/SWIFT and the country of the bank
- Confirm and submit the change.
For foreign accounts, NemKonto may ask for additional documentation or a signed form from your bank. Processing can therefore take longer than for a Danish account.
Updating personal details linked to your NemKonto
Your NemKonto is linked to your CPR number, not to your name or address. Changes to your name, address, marital status or tax information are handled via other public systems, but they can still affect how payments are processed.
- Name and address: update these with the Danish National Register (Folkeregisteret) via borger.dk. The change is then shared with other authorities.
- Tax information: update your preliminary income assessment (forskudsopgørelse) and bank interest details in TastSelv at skat.dk.
- Contact details: keep your email and mobile number updated in e‑Boks and at your bank so you receive important messages about payments and security.
You do not need to notify every authority separately when you change your NemKonto. Once the new account is registered in the NemKonto system, all public authorities will use it for future payments.
How to deactivate or close a NemKonto
You cannot “delete” your NemKonto as long as you have a CPR number and are registered in Denmark, but you can:
- close the bank account that is currently used as NemKonto
- change your NemKonto to another account (for example, a savings account or a foreign account)
- register an account that is only used for public payments and kept at a low balance for security reasons
If you are closing your Danish bank account
Before you close your Danish account, make sure you register a new NemKonto:
- Open a new account in Denmark or abroad.
- Register this account as your NemKonto via your bank or nemkonto.dk.
- Only then ask your bank to close the old account.
If you close your only bank account without registering a new NemKonto, public payments may be delayed or returned to the authority until you provide new account details.
If you are moving abroad
When you deregister from Denmark, you can still receive tax refunds, pension payments and other outstanding amounts. You have two main options:
- keep a Danish bank account and continue using it as your NemKonto
- register a foreign bank account (IBAN and BIC/SWIFT) as your NemKonto via nemkonto.dk
Be aware that transfers to foreign accounts may involve bank fees and longer processing times. Also check with your bank whether they require a minimum balance or charge account maintenance fees for non‑residents.
What happens if your NemKonto is inactive or incorrect
If your NemKonto is linked to a closed or blocked account, payments from authorities will usually be returned to the sender. In practice this can mean:
- delayed salary from public employers
- late tax refunds from Skattestyrelsen
- interrupted benefit or pension payments
Authorities will typically contact you via e‑Boks or letter and ask you to update your NemKonto. Once you register a valid account, most payments can be sent again, but some may require manual processing or a new decision from the authority.
How an accounting firm can assist with NemKonto administration
For many foreigners, expats and small business owners, NemKonto procedures and Danish‑language self‑service portals can be confusing. A professional accounting firm in Denmark can help you:
- check which account is currently registered as your private or company NemKonto
- coordinate with your bank to register or change your NemKonto correctly
- set up NemKonto for new companies and sole proprietors and separate it from your private NemKonto
- resolve issues with returned payments, tax refunds and benefits linked to an incorrect NemKonto
- advise you on the best setup if you are moving to or from Denmark and need to use a foreign account
Properly managed NemKonto details reduce the risk of missed payments, cash‑flow problems and unnecessary contact with authorities, and help keep your personal and business finances in Denmark running smoothly.
Security, data protection and fraud prevention related to NemKonto
NemKonto is tightly integrated with the Danish public IT infrastructure, so security and data protection are taken very seriously. Understanding how your data is handled and how to protect yourself against fraud will help you use NemKonto safely and confidently.
How NemKonto protects your data
NemKonto is not a separate bank account. It is a registration in the central NemKonto system that links your CPR or CVR number to one specific bank account. Public authorities and other approved payers can only see the account number that is registered as your NemKonto – they do not get access to your full banking history or other accounts.
The NemKonto system is operated on behalf of the Danish state and must comply with the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Danish Data Protection Act. This means, among other things:
- Your CPR/CVR and bank account data are stored and processed on secure servers within the EU/EEA
- Access to NemKonto data is strictly role‑based and logged; only authorised staff and systems may see or change your registration
- Data is encrypted in transit when it is exchanged between banks, NemKonto and public authorities
- Your information is kept only as long as necessary for legal and administrative purposes and then deleted or anonymised
Identification: MitID, CPR and secure login
To register or change a NemKonto, you normally need to log in with MitID. MitID is the national digital ID used for online banking and public services in Denmark. It uses multi‑factor authentication, typically a MitID app or physical code display plus your personal password.
When you log in with MitID to your bank or to the NemKonto self‑service, your identity is verified against your CPR or CVR number. This ensures that only you (or a person with a valid power of attorney) can choose or change the account linked to your NemKonto.
If you do not yet have MitID, or you cannot use it (for example, some new arrivals or people without a CPR number), NemKonto registration can usually be done via your bank or by submitting specific forms with identity documentation. In these cases, the bank or authority must verify your identity with the same level of security as for MitID users.
Who can see and use your NemKonto data
Only entities that are legally authorised may use NemKonto information to make payments to you. This includes Danish public authorities at state, regional and municipal level, as well as certain approved private organisations (for example, pension funds or insurance companies) that pay out benefits or refunds.
These payers can:
- Look up which bank account is registered as your NemKonto based on your CPR or CVR number
- Transfer payments to that account
They cannot:
- See balances or transactions on your account
- Withdraw money from your account via NemKonto
- Change which account is registered as your NemKonto
Your responsibilities for keeping NemKonto secure
While the NemKonto infrastructure is highly regulated and technically secure, your own behaviour is crucial for preventing fraud. You are responsible for:
- Keeping your MitID user ID, password and activation data secret
- Never sharing MitID codes or approving logins or transactions you did not initiate
- Checking that you are on an official website (for example, your bank, borger.dk or virk.dk) before logging in
- Informing your bank immediately if you suspect that your MitID or account has been compromised
If you receive unexpected payments via NemKonto, you should always verify the source in your online banking and, if in doubt, contact the payer or your accountant before using the money.
Typical NemKonto fraud attempts and how to avoid them
Fraudsters do not hack NemKonto directly; instead, they try to trick you into revealing your MitID or bank details. The most common methods are:
- Phishing emails and SMS claiming to be from SKAT, Udbetaling Danmark, your municipality or your bank, often promising a tax refund or benefit payment via NemKonto and asking you to click a link
- Fake websites that look like borger.dk, skat.dk or a bank login page and ask you to enter MitID or card details
- Phone calls from people pretending to be from the bank, the police or a public authority, asking you to approve a MitID login or read out codes
To protect yourself:
- Remember that public authorities and banks will never ask you by email, SMS or phone to give your MitID password or one‑time codes
- Type web addresses manually or use bookmarks instead of clicking links in messages
- Check the address bar for “https” and the correct domain (for example, .dk domains of known authorities and banks)
- Hang up and call back on the official phone number if someone unexpectedly asks for sensitive information
What happens if something goes wrong
If you suspect that someone has changed your NemKonto registration or accessed your bank account without permission, act quickly:
- Contact your bank immediately and block your cards or online banking if necessary
- Block or suspend your MitID via the MitID app or the official MitID support channels
- Report the incident to the police if money has been stolen or someone has misused your identity
- Check your NemKonto registration via your bank or the NemKonto self‑service and correct any unauthorised changes
Whether you can get your money back depends on the circumstances and on Danish payment services law. If you have protected your MitID and did not act with gross negligence, you often have a strong position to claim reimbursement. Your bank and your accountant can help you assess your specific case.
Data protection rights related to NemKonto
Under GDPR and Danish law, you have several rights regarding the personal data used in the NemKonto system:
- The right to know which data about you is stored and how it is used
- The right to have incorrect information corrected
- The right to object to certain types of processing, if legally applicable
- The right to complain to the Danish Data Protection Agency if you believe your data has been mishandled
In practice, you exercise most of these rights by contacting your bank, the relevant public authority, or the NemKonto support function. An accountant familiar with Danish rules can help you formulate requests and understand the responses.
Used correctly, NemKonto is a secure and efficient way to receive public and private payments in Denmark. Combining the technical safeguards of the NemKonto system with careful handling of your MitID and banking details is the best protection against fraud and misuse.
NemKonto and moving abroad: what happens when you leave Denmark
Leaving Denmark does not automatically close your NemKonto, but it does change how it is used and what you need to keep updated. Understanding what happens to your NemKonto when you move abroad helps you avoid missed payments, tax issues and blocked access to Danish public services.
Does your NemKonto close when you move abroad?
When you deregister from the Danish National Register (Folkeregisteret) and move abroad, your NemKonto generally remains active as long as the underlying bank account is open and can receive payments. The NemKonto system itself does not close your account; it only links your CPR number to a specific bank account.
However, if your Danish bank account is closed, your NemKonto will no longer have a valid account attached. In that case, public authorities cannot transfer money to you until you register a new account as your NemKonto.
Using a foreign bank account as NemKonto after leaving Denmark
If you move abroad and no longer have or want a Danish bank account, you can usually register a foreign bank account as your NemKonto. This is relevant if you expect to receive:
- Tax refunds from Skattestyrelsen
- Payouts of overpaid public benefits
- Pension payments from Danish schemes that allow foreign payouts
- Other reimbursements from Danish authorities
To use a foreign account as NemKonto, you must provide full international payment details, typically including IBAN, BIC/SWIFT and the exact name and address of the account holder and the foreign bank. Transfers to foreign NemKonto accounts may take longer to arrive and can incur bank fees or currency conversion costs, depending on your bank and country of residence.
NemKonto and your CPR number after emigration
Your CPR number remains your personal identifier in Denmark even after you move abroad. It stays linked to your NemKonto and is used by authorities such as Skattestyrelsen, Udbetaling Danmark and your former municipality to send payments and official information.
If you are deregistered from the National Register, you may lose access to some digital services that require active residence, but your CPR number and NemKonto connection are still used for financial transactions and communication related to past employment, tax matters, pensions or outstanding benefits.
Access to MitID, e-Boks and NemKonto from abroad
To manage your NemKonto after leaving Denmark, you normally continue using MitID and e-Boks:
- MitID: You should keep your MitID active before you move. It is used to log in to NemKonto self-service, skat.dk and borger.dk. If you lose access to MitID while abroad, reactivation can be more complicated and may require physical identification at a Danish mission or a designated MitID agent.
- e-Boks: Danish authorities continue to send digital letters to your e-Boks, including tax statements, pension information and notifications about payments to your NemKonto. You should check e-Boks regularly from abroad to avoid missing deadlines or important decisions.
If you know you will lose access to your Danish phone number or email, update your contact details in relevant self-service portals before leaving Denmark.
Tax refunds and outstanding payments after you leave
Many people receive tax refunds or final settlements after they have already moved abroad. Skattestyrelsen pays these amounts to the NemKonto linked to your CPR number. To ensure you receive the money:
- Keep a Danish bank account open and linked as your NemKonto, or
- Register a foreign bank account as your NemKonto as soon as possible after moving.
If you do not have a valid NemKonto, payments may be delayed or held until you provide correct account details. In some cases, authorities can issue manual international transfers, but this often takes more time and may require additional documentation.
Public benefits, pensions and NemKonto abroad
Whether you can continue receiving Danish public benefits or pensions abroad depends on the specific scheme and on international agreements between Denmark and your new country of residence. For payments that can be exported abroad, NemKonto is still the standard method of transfer.
Typical examples include:
- Certain Danish state pensions and occupational pensions that allow payment to foreign accounts
- Some long-term benefits or compensations that remain payable after emigration
In these cases, you must ensure that your NemKonto is linked to an account that can receive international transfers and that your address and contact information are updated with the relevant authority or pension provider.
What if your Danish bank account is closed?
If your Danish bank closes your account after you move abroad, any future payments from Danish authorities will fail until you update your NemKonto details. Common reasons for account closure include:
- Bank policy changes regarding non-resident customers
- Missing documentation for anti–money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) checks
- Long periods of inactivity
To avoid problems, contact your bank before leaving Denmark and clarify whether you can keep the account as a non-resident and under what conditions. If keeping a Danish account is not possible, plan to register a foreign account as your NemKonto in good time.
How to update your NemKonto after moving abroad
You can usually change the account linked to your NemKonto online using MitID. If you no longer have access to Danish online banking or self-service, you may need to:
- Contact your Danish bank and ask them to register a new NemKonto on your behalf, or
- Use the official NemKonto forms for foreign accounts and send them to the NemKonto administration or your bank with the required identification.
Processing times vary depending on whether you use a Danish or foreign account and on how quickly your bank confirms the details. You should not assume that a change is active until you receive confirmation from your bank or see the updated information in self-service.
Deactivating or limiting your NemKonto
You cannot fully “delete” your NemKonto as long as you have a CPR number, because Danish authorities need a default payment account for refunds and payouts. However, you can:
- Close the underlying bank account (which effectively stops payments until a new account is registered)
- Change the account to one you control and monitor regularly
- Ask your bank about setting limits or alerts for incoming international transfers and currency conversions
If you are concerned about security or fraud, it is better to keep NemKonto linked to a secure, monitored account than to leave it attached to an old or dormant account you no longer control.
Practical checklist before leaving Denmark
- Decide whether you will keep a Danish bank account or use a foreign account as NemKonto
- Confirm with your bank that you can keep your account as a non-resident and under which conditions
- Update your NemKonto details to the account you want to use after moving
- Secure continued access to MitID and e-Boks and update your contact details
- Inform Skattestyrelsen, Udbetaling Danmark and any pension providers about your new address abroad
Taking these steps before you leave Denmark helps ensure that tax refunds, pensions and other payments reach you without delays, and that your NemKonto continues to work smoothly while you live abroad.
Where to get help with NemKonto registration and troubleshooting
If you have trouble registering your NemKonto, linking the wrong bank account, or receiving public payments, there are several official places in Denmark where you can get reliable help. Below you will find the main institutions and typical situations in which it makes sense to contact them.
NemKonto self‑service and official support
The first place to start is the official NemKonto portal. Through NemKonto self‑service you can:
- check which bank account is currently registered as your NemKonto
- change the account linked to your NemKonto
- see basic information about your registration
You log in with MitID. If you cannot log in, or you receive technical error messages, you can contact the NemKonto support service. They can help with:
- technical problems with NemKonto self‑service
- clarifying whether your NemKonto is active and correctly registered
- questions about NemKonto rules for private individuals and companies
Bank support: problems with the account linked to NemKonto
Your bank plays a central role in NemKonto registration. You should contact your Danish bank if you:
- need to open a new account that can be used as NemKonto
- are unsure whether your account is eligible to be registered as NemKonto
- have changed banks and want to make sure your new account is correctly linked
- see payments from public authorities that are delayed or rejected due to account issues
The bank can confirm whether your account is active, in DKK, and technically ready to receive NemKonto payments. They can also help you understand bank fees, international transfers and how foreign accounts can (or cannot) be used with NemKonto.
SKAT / Danish Tax Agency: tax refunds and offsetting
If your problem is related to tax refunds, outstanding tax, or offsetting of payments, you should contact the Danish Tax Agency (Skattestyrelsen). This is relevant when:
- you are expecting a tax refund (årsopgørelse) but nothing has arrived on your NemKonto
- your refund has been used to pay other public debts and you want to understand the calculation
- you have changed your NemKonto and want to check where future tax refunds will be paid
The Tax Agency can see whether a refund has been ordered, to which NemKonto it was sent, and whether it has been offset against other debts to public authorities.
Udbetaling Danmark and your municipality: benefits and pensions
If you are not receiving public benefits, pensions or family allowances on your NemKonto, it is often more effective to contact the authority that pays the benefit rather than NemKonto support. In practice, this is usually:
- Udbetaling Danmark – for state pensions, family benefits, maternity benefits and some social benefits
- your municipality (kommune) – for social assistance, housing benefits and local support schemes
They can check whether your benefit has been approved, the payment schedule, and whether a payment has been sent to your NemKonto. If your NemKonto is inactive or incorrect, they will normally ask you to update it and then re‑issue or schedule the payment.
Borgercenter and International Citizen Service: new residents and foreigners
New residents, EU citizens and non‑EU citizens often have additional questions about NemKonto, CPR, MitID and e‑Boks. You can get in‑person help at:
- your local citizen service centre (Borgerservice / Borgercenter)
- International Citizen Service (ICS) in the larger cities, aimed at expats and foreign workers
These offices can guide you through the sequence: obtaining a CPR number, registering your address, applying for MitID and then registering your NemKonto. They can also explain what to do if you do not yet qualify for a Danish bank account and need a temporary solution.
Business NemKonto: help for companies and self‑employed
For companies, associations and self‑employed persons, NemKonto is linked to the CVR number. If you have problems with a business NemKonto, you may need to contact:
- your business bank – to open or change the account linked to your CVR
- the Danish Business Authority (Erhvervsstyrelsen) – for issues related to company registration and CVR data
- SKAT for businesses – for VAT (moms), payroll tax (AM‑bidrag) and company tax refunds
It is important that the company’s NemKonto is correctly registered, because VAT refunds, tax adjustments and public grants are paid to this account.
MitID and e‑Boks support: access problems
Since NemKonto management requires MitID and most communication from authorities is sent to e‑Boks, problems with these systems often block NemKonto updates. You should contact:
- MitID support – if you cannot log in, have lost your MitID app or code display, or changed your phone
- e‑Boks support – if you cannot access letters about NemKonto, tax or benefits
Once MitID and e‑Boks are working, you can usually complete NemKonto changes online without further assistance.
Professional accounting and advisory services
If your situation is complex – for example, you run a company, have cross‑border income, or are moving to or from Denmark – it can be helpful to use a professional accountant or advisor. A specialist in Danish accounting and tax can:
- check whether your NemKonto is correctly set up for both private and business use
- coordinate NemKonto details with SKAT, your bank and public authorities
- advise on NemKonto when you change residence, close a company or restructure your business
Professional support reduces the risk of missed payments, delayed tax refunds or problems with benefits caused by an incorrectly registered NemKonto.
How to choose the right place to ask for help
As a rule of thumb, contact:
- your bank – if the problem is with the bank account itself
- NemKonto support – if the registration or technical NemKonto status is unclear
- the paying authority (SKAT, Udbetaling Danmark, your municipality) – if a specific payment is missing
- Borgerservice or ICS – if you are new in Denmark or have not yet completed CPR, MitID and NemKonto registration
- a professional accountant – if you need coordinated advice for business, expat or cross‑border situations
By contacting the right institution from the start, you usually solve NemKonto problems faster and avoid repeated delays in receiving your salary, benefits, tax refunds and other public payments.
Setting up a NemKont step by step
Instructions for setting up a NemKont:
Documents to be prepared:
- Passport or other identity document required.
- Danish CPR (identification) number.
- You will also need to provide proof of your address in Denmark, such as a utility bill or rental agreement.
- In addition, certain banks may require proof of employment or a certificate from a university.
The CPR number is a nine-digit identifier that includes your date of birth and four unique digits. It is given to all individuals who have to pay taxes in Denmark, as well as citizens and residents who are 18 years of age or older.
2. Registration form: Download the NemKonto form from the Danish Digitaliseringsstyrelsen website and fill it out according to the instructions.
3. Registration options: If you have a Danish bank account and a NemID or digital signature, you can do all the paperwork online at nemkonto.dk. Alternatively, you can fill out the form by hand. Attach a copy of an identity document, such as a driver's license, passport or ID card, to the form. For verification, get your signature notarized or arrange for the signatures of two witnesses, who must also provide their information, such as address, and sign in their own hand. These types of safeguards are used to prevent unauthorized persons from submitting false applications.
4. Submitting the form: If you have a Danish bank account, you can complete all the paperwork online. However, if you have a foreign account, the completed form and additional documents must be sent by mail to the Danish tax authority SKAT. In the form you need to provide the IBAN number, which includes the prefix PL (or the code of the country where your account is located). Information on your bank's BIC/SWIFT code can be found online. If you use a Danish account, this is also possible online, using either a digital signature or NemID.
5. Receipt of activation code: After submitting the form, the activation code should reach you by mail within 30 days. This code will be valid for 30 days from the date of receipt. To activate your NemKonto, use the code as soon as possible.
6. Activating your account: To activate your NemKonto, use the automated phone system by calling the number provided in the activation code letter. Enter the code you received to complete the activation process. After completing these steps, your NemKonto will be ready to receive payments from Danish public institutions.
If you are opening a bank account in Denmark for the first time, you will usually need to visit one of the bank's branches in person. To arrange a visit, contact the bank branch of your choice.
All transactions related to tax authorities and other administrative bodies will be processed through NemKont. Waiting for a decision from the tax authority usually takes from 3 to 6 months.
There is no cost involved in setting up a NemKont. The process of assigning any Danish account to NemKont is simple for those with MitID, and it is possible to do so electronically. No Danish citizenship is required to obtain a MitID, but it is necessary to have a CPR number and a valid identity document. Alternatively, it is possible to register a foreign bank account as a NemKonto, but in this case you must use traditional methods - sending a form by mail or visiting the office in person.