The 22-Year Rule for Danish Citizenship — What You Need to Know

The 22-Year Rule for Danish Citizenship — What You Need to Know

Denmark has a lesser-known rule that can cause certain citizens to automatically lose their Danish citizenship when they turn 22. If you were born abroad to a Danish parent, or if you hold dual nationality and have never lived in Denmark, this rule could directly affect you or your children.

Below we explain how the rule works, who it affects, and what to do about it.

What Is the 22-Year Rule?

Under Section 8 of the Danish Nationality Act (indfødsretsloven), Danish citizens who were born abroad and have never lived in Denmark — and who have not stayed in Denmark under conditions that demonstrate a close connection to the country — automatically lose their Danish citizenship when they turn 22.

This rule applies specifically to people who hold dual nationality. The rationale behind it is that citizenship should reflect a genuine connection to the country. If someone has never lived in or meaningfully engaged with Denmark, the state considers the citizenship bond to have weakened over time.

The critical point is that this loss of citizenship happens automatically. You will not receive a formal notice or warning. If you do not take action before your 22nd birthday, you may discover that you are no longer a Danish citizen only when you try to use your passport or exercise other rights of citizenship.

Who Does the 22-Year Rule Affect?

The rule primarily affects the following groups:

People Born Abroad to a Danish Parent

If you were born outside Denmark and acquired Danish citizenship through one or both of your parents, you may be subject to the 22-year rule. This is the most common scenario.

People with Dual Nationality Who Have Not Lived in Denmark

The rule targets individuals who hold citizenship in another country alongside their Danish citizenship. If you have only Danish citizenship (no dual nationality), Section 8 does not apply to you.

Children of Danes Living Abroad

Many Danish families living permanently in other countries are unaware that their children's Danish citizenship could be at risk. If the children were born abroad and hold the citizenship of their country of birth, they fall under this rule.

Who Is NOT Typically Affected?

• People born in Denmark, even if they currently live abroad
• People who have lived in Denmark for a significant period (even if born abroad)
• People who have stayed in Denmark under conditions showing a close connection (e.g., extended visits, education, employment)
• People who hold only Danish citizenship (no dual nationality)

Historical Context

The 22-year rule has existed in Danish nationality law for decades, predating the modern debate around dual citizenship. For many years, Denmark did not allow dual citizenship at all, which meant fewer people were affected by the rule.

In 2015, Denmark introduced a landmark change by allowing dual citizenship. This meant that more Danes abroad could retain their Danish citizenship alongside their local citizenship. However, the 22-year rule remained in the law. As a result, the number of people potentially affected by the rule has actually increased since 2015, because more people now hold dual nationality.

There have been ongoing discussions in the Danish parliament about whether to reform or abolish the 22-year rule, but as of 2026, it remains in effect.

How to Retain Your Citizenship

If you believe the 22-year rule applies to you, the most important thing is to act before your 22nd birthday. Here is how:

1. Apply to the Ministry of Immigration and Integration

You must submit a formal application for retention of your Danish citizenship (bevarelse af dansk indfødsret) to the Ministry of Immigration and Integration (Udlændinge- og Integrationsministeriet). The application must be submitted before you turn 22.

2. Demonstrate Your Connection to Denmark

Your application should include evidence of your connection to Denmark. This can include:

• Records of visits to Denmark (travel history, boarding passes, etc.)
• Evidence of Danish language skills
• Enrollment in Danish language courses or cultural programs
• Family connections in Denmark
• Participation in Danish community organizations abroad
• Communication with Danish authorities or institutions

3. Gather Documentation Early

Do not wait until the last minute. Collect documentation of your ties to Denmark well in advance. The stronger your evidence of a genuine connection, the better your chances of retention.

4. Consider Processing Times

Government processing can take several months. Submit your application with plenty of time to spare — ideally at least 6-12 months before your 22nd birthday.

5. Contact the Danish Embassy

Your nearest Danish embassy or consulate can provide guidance on the application process and help you understand what documentation is required. They can also advise on your specific situation.

What If You Have Already Lost Citizenship?

If you have already turned 22 and lost your Danish citizenship under the 22-year rule, you still have options — but the path is more complex.

Apply for Naturalization

You would need to apply for Danish citizenship through the standard naturalization process (indfødsret). This involves:

• Residence requirement: You generally need to have lived in Denmark for a certain period (typically 9 years, with some exceptions)
• Danish language test: You must pass a Danish language test (Prøve i Dansk 3 or equivalent)
• Citizenship test: You must pass the Danish citizenship test (indfødsretsprøven)
• Self-sufficiency: You must demonstrate that you can support yourself financially
• Clean criminal record: Certain criminal offenses can disqualify you or extend waiting periods
• Parliamentary approval: Danish citizenship is ultimately granted by an act of parliament (a naturalization bill)

Processing Time

The naturalization process can take 1-2 years or longer, depending on parliamentary schedules and the volume of applications.

Preparing for the Citizenship Test

If you need to pass the Danish citizenship test as part of the naturalization process, Borgerklar can help you prepare. Our platform covers all topics on the test, including Danish history, society, culture, current events, and values. Try a free practice test to see where you stand.

Practical Tips for Protecting Your Citizenship

Whether you are a Danish parent living abroad or a young person approaching your 22nd birthday, here are some practical steps:

Set a Reminder Well Before Your 22nd Birthday

Do not rely on the Danish government to notify you. Set your own reminders — at age 18 or 19 — to begin the retention process.

Contact the Danish Embassy in Your Country

Embassy staff can explain the process, provide application forms, and advise on what documentation you need. Find your nearest embassy at the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Gather Documentation of Your Connection to Denmark Early

Start collecting evidence of your Danish ties as early as possible. Even small things matter — Danish language courses, visits to Denmark, participation in Danish cultural events abroad.

Consider Visiting Denmark Regularly

Regular visits to Denmark can strengthen your case for retention. They also help maintain the cultural and personal connection that the rule is designed to evaluate.

Register with the Danish Authorities

If you plan to stay in Denmark for any period, register with the local municipality (kommune). This creates an official record of your presence in Denmark.

The Connection to the Citizenship Test

If you ultimately need to regain Danish citizenship through naturalization, the citizenship test will be one of your requirements. The test covers:

• Danish history from the Viking Age to modern times
• Danish society and culture, including the welfare state, education, and healthcare
• Current events in Denmark
• Danish values and democratic principles

Borgerklar helps you prepare for this test with structured lessons, practice questions, and exam simulations.

Key Takeaways

1. The 22-year rule can cause automatic loss of Danish citizenship for dual nationals born abroad
2. You must act before turning 22 to retain your citizenship
3. Demonstrating a connection to Denmark is essential for retention applications
4. If you have already lost citizenship, naturalization is possible but takes time
5. The Danish citizenship test is a key requirement for naturalization — start preparing with Borgerklar

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This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, consult the Danish Ministry of Immigration and Integration or a qualified immigration lawyer.