- Free delivery - no obligation
- Call 5 hours to +60 countries from Denmark
- Satisfaction guarantee
- No binding
- Cheap telephony
- 4G network
- Can be used in 37 EU countries
- 4G network
- Can be used in 37 EU countries
- Free delivery - no obligation
- Free voice, 40GB in DK, 5 Hours in EU
- Satisfaction guarantee
- No binding
- Cheap telephony
- 4G subscription
- Free creation
- No binding
- Oister+ benefit club
- EU roaming
- 5G network
- The best mobile network in the Nordics
- 4G network
- Subscription available in the EU, Norway, Iceland and the Faroe Islands
- Oister+ benefit club
- EU roaming
- 5G network
- Get your first month FREE
- Call 10 hours to +60 countries from Denmark
- Satisfaction guarantee
- 4G subscription
- Free creation
- No binding
- 4G network
- Can be used in 37 EU countries
- Oister+ benefit club
- EU roaming
- 5G network
- 5G network
- 5G subscription
- Free creation
- No binding
- No binding
- Free creation
- Oister+ benefit club
- EU roaming
- 5G network
- 5G network
- Can be used in 37 EU countries
- Get your first month FREE
- Call 10 hours to +60 countries from Denmark
- Satisfaction guarantee
- No binding
- Cheap telephony
- The best mobile network in the Nordics
- 5G network
- Subscription available in the EU, Norway, Iceland and the Faroe Islands
- 5G subscription
- Free creation
- No binding
- 5G network
- Can be used in 37 EU countries
- The best mobile network in the Nordics
- 5G network
- Subscription available in the EU, Norway, Iceland and the Faroe Islands
- Oister+ benefit club
- EU roaming
- 5G network
- The best mobile network in the Nordics
- 5G network
- Subscription available in the EU, Norway, Iceland and the Faroe Islands
- 4G subscription
- Free creation
- No binding
- Oister+ benefit club
- EU roaming
- 5G network
- Oister+ benefit club
- EU roaming
- 5G network
- No binding
- Cheap telephony
- Call 10 hours to +60 countries from Denmark
- Satisfaction guarantee
- 5G subscription
- Free creation
- No binding
- The best mobile network in the Nordics
- 5G network
- Subscription available in the EU, Norway, Iceland and the Faroe Islands
- The best mobile network in the Nordics
- 5G network
- Subscription available in the EU, Norway, Iceland and the Faroe Islands
- No fees or commitment
- 5G network
- 5G network
- No fees or commitment
- 5G network
- The best mobile network in the Nordics
- 5G network
- Subscription available in the EU, Norway, Iceland and the Faroe Islands
- 5G subscription
- Free creation
- No binding
- Get your first month FREE
- Call 10 hours to +60 countries from Denmark
- Satisfaction guarantee
- Oister+ benefit club
- EU roaming
- 5G network
- 5G network
- The best mobile network in the Nordics
- 5G network
- Subscription available in the EU, Norway, Iceland and the Faroe Islands
- 5G network
- Incl. YouSee music
- Choose multiple subscriptions and save money every month
- The best mobile network in the Nordics
- 5G network
- Subscription available in the EU, Norway, Iceland and the Faroe Islands
- Oister+ benefit club
- EU roaming
- 5G network
- No fees or commitment
- 5G network
- 5G network
- Incl. YouSee music
- Choose multiple subscriptions and save money every month
- 5G network
- 5G network
- Incl. YouSee music
- Choose multiple subscriptions and save money every month
- 5G network
- Incl. YouSee music
- Choose multiple subscriptions and save money every month
- No binding
- Cheap telephony
- 3 optional streaming services
- 5G network
- Incl 4 optional streaming services
- 5G network
- Incl 5 optional streaming services
- 5G network
- Includes 9 streaming services
- 5G network
Finding the right mobile plans denmark offers is one of the first tasks for any newcomer. Whether you are moving for work, study, or a long-term stay, securing a local number is essential for banking, government services, and daily communication. Most mobile subscriptions Denmark provides are generous with data and relatively affordable compared to other European countries. However, the system distinguishes sharply between temporary visitors and registered residents.
Mobile Plans & SIM Cards in Denmark
Not sure where to start? Finding the right mobile solution in a new country can be confusing. Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Whether you need a prepaid SIM, a fast eSIM, or a long-term plan with a top Danish operator, explore our beginner-friendly guides below.
SIM Cards & Connectivity
Mobile Operators
Understanding the Danish Mobile Network Structure
Denmark has a highly developed telecommunications infrastructure. The country is small and flat, which makes it easier to provide comprehensive coverage. There are three main network operators that own the physical towers and cables.
The Three Main Networks:
- TDC (YouSee/Telmore): Historically the state-owned telecommunications company. It is widely regarded as having the best coverage in rural areas and the most extensive 5G network.
- TT-Netværket (Telia and Telenor): These two major companies merged their radio access networks in Denmark. They share towers and infrastructure to provide coverage that rivals TDC.
- 3 (Tre): This operator builds its own network. It is very strong in major cities like Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Odense but historically had gaps in very remote rural areas. They have invested heavily in recent years to close this gap.
Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs)
Most expats will not sign a contract directly with the main network owners. Instead, you will likely choose a discount brand or an MVNO. These smaller companies rent space on the main networks.
For example, CBB Mobil runs on the Telenor/Telia network. Oister runs on the 3 network. Eesy runs on the TDC network. The signal quality is identical to the main provider, but the customer service and pricing structures differ. Discount providers usually offer online-only support and lower monthly fees.
Requirements for Standard Mobile Subscriptions
Accessing a standard postpaid mobile contract in Denmark requires specific documentation. The system is digitized and linked to the central civil registry. You cannot walk into a shop and sign a monthly contract without being a registered resident.
The CPR Number Requirement
The CPR number (Civil Registration Number) is the cornerstone of life in Denmark. It is a ten-digit ID number issued to residents. Mobile operators use this number to perform a credit check and verify your identity. If you do not have a CPR number, you cannot sign up for a monthly subscription with payment via direct debit (Betalingsservice).
MitID Digital Signature
Signing a contract is done digitally. You will need MitID, the Danish digital ID app. This is used to log in to the operator’s website and legally sign the subscription agreement. Obtaining MitID takes time and requires you to have your CPR number first.
Danish Address
Your CPR number is linked to your Danish address. Operators will only mail SIM cards or hardware to the address registered in the National Register of Persons (Folkeregisteret). This prevents fraud. If you are staying in a hotel or temporary Airbnb without official registration, you cannot receive a subscription SIM.
Prepaid Options for Expats and New Arrivals
If you have just arrived and are waiting for your CPR number, you must use a prepaid solution. This is the standard route for foreigners during their first weeks or months. Prepaid cards in Denmark function similarly to subscriptions but do not require a credit check or a long-term contract.
Lebara and Lyca Mobile
The two most popular providers for non-residents are Lyca Mobile and Lebara Denmark. These companies specialize in the international market. They offer low-cost bundles that include data, local minutes, and often international minutes to specific countries.
Where to Buy Prepaid SIMs
You can purchase these SIM cards at:
- 7-Eleven kiosks.
- Supermarkets (Netto, Føtex, Meny).
- Electronic stores (Elgiganten, Power).
- Copenhagen Airport arrivals hall (though prices may be higher).
Mandatory ID Registration
Even for prepaid cards, anonymity is not permitted. Under Danish anti-terror laws, you must register your identity to activate the SIM card. You do not need a CPR number for this. You can usually register online using a passport or national ID card. The process involves scanning your ID and sometimes taking a selfie for verification. Once verified, the line becomes active immediately.
Mobile Plans and Pricing Overview
Denmark offers a competitive mobile market. Prices are generally lower than in North America. Most plans include unlimited talk and text, with the price difference determined by the data allowance.
The following table outlines the typical tiers of mobile service you will encounter.
| Plan Type | Data (Denmark) | EU Roaming Data | Typical Price (DKK) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prepaid Starter | 10 GB – 100 GB | 2 GB – 5 GB | 49 – 99 kr. | New arrivals, short stays |
| Budget Subscription | 30 GB – 50 GB | 10 GB – 20 GB | 89 – 109 kr. | Average users, students |
| Standard Subscription | Unlimited / 1000 GB | 20 GB – 30 GB | 149 – 179 kr. | Heavy data users, streaming |
| Premium / Family | Unlimited + Streaming | 40 GB – Unlimited | 249 – 399 kr. | Families, frequent travelers |
Value for Money
The “Budget Subscription” tier is the most common for residents. For approximately 100 DKK (roughly 13-14 EUR), you typically get ample data for daily use. Unlike in some countries, you are rarely charged for incoming calls or texts. Contracts are usually month-to-month. The maximum binding period for a SIM-only plan is legally capped at six months, but most discount operators offer no binding period at all.
Physical SIM Cards vs. eSIM
The transition to digital SIM cards is well underway in Denmark. However, the availability depends on your residency status and choice of operator.
Physical SIM Cards
The standard triple-cut SIM (Standard, Micro, Nano) is still the default. When you buy a prepaid package at a kiosk, you get a physical card. When you order a subscription online, the operator mails a physical card to your registered address. This is the most reliable method if you have an older phone or need to swap the SIM between devices.
eSIM Availability
An eSIM (embedded SIM) allows you to activate a plan without a physical card. Major Danish operators and many discount brands now support eSIM. This is excellent for travelers who want connectivity the moment they land. You can purchase eSIM plans Denmark supports online while you are still in your home country.
For residents, switching to eSIM is usually done via the operator’s self-service portal. You scan a QR code provided by the operator to download the profile to your phone. Note that some budget prepaid providers bought in kiosks may not offer eSIM immediately; you might need to start with a physical SIM and convert it later.
EU Roaming and Data Rules
Denmark is part of the European Union, which means “Roam Like at Home” rules apply. However, there are important limitations that expats must understand.
No Extra Fees for Talk and Text
When you travel to other EU/EEA countries, you can use your Danish minutes and SMS allowance just like you are in Denmark. Calling a German number while you are in Germany using your Danish phone costs the same as a local call.
Data Caps (Fair Use Policy)
“Unlimited Data” in Denmark does not mean unlimited data in Spain or Italy. Operators apply a “Fair Use Limit” for data roaming. If you have a 100 GB plan in Denmark, you might only get 10 to 20 GB of data to use freely in the EU.
If you exceed this EU limit, the operator can charge a surcharge per gigabyte. This limit must be clearly stated in your contract. You will usually receive an SMS from your operator when you cross a border, stating exactly how much data you have available for roaming.
Roaming Outside the EU
Using your Danish SIM card outside the EU (e.g., Switzerland, UK, USA, Asia) can be extremely expensive. Switzerland is not in the EU/EEA, and data rates there can be exorbitant. Some premium plans (like those from 3) include roaming in specific non-EU countries like the UK and USA, but budget plans generally do not.
5G Availability and Network Speed
Denmark is a leader in digital infrastructure. 5G in Denmark is widely available and covers the vast majority of the population.
Coverage Density
In cities, 5G is standard. You will experience speeds ranging from 100 Mbps to over 1 Gbps depending on your proximity to a mast. In rural areas, the network often shifts to 4G+ (LTE Advanced), which is still robust enough for HD streaming and video calls.
Device Compatibility
To access 5G, you need a 5G-capable device and a plan that specifically includes 5G. Most mid-tier and premium plans include 5G access automatically. Some entry-level budget plans may be restricted to 4G speeds to keep costs down.
Frequency Bands
Denmark uses standard European frequency bands.
- 4G/LTE: Bands 3 (1800 MHz), 7 (2600 MHz), and 20 (800 MHz). Band 20 is crucial for rural coverage and indoor signal.
- 5G: 700 MHz, 3500 MHz, and 26 GHz.
If you are bringing a phone from North America or Asia, check that it supports these bands. Most modern iPhones and high-end Androids are “global” and will work without issues.
Major Mobile Operators and Budget Providers
Choosing the right provider depends on your budget and whether you need extra perks.
Premium Providers (TDC, Telia, Telenor, 3)
These are the main brands. They have physical stores on high streets where you can talk to staff.
- Pros: Customer service in person, ability to buy phones on installment plans, family sharing options.
- Cons: Higher monthly fees.
Discount Brands (MVNOs)
These operate online only. Support is via chat or email.
- Oister: Owned by 3. Known for aggressive pricing and frequent sales.
- CBB Mobil: Owned by Telenor. Very strong brand loyalty and good customer service ratings.
- Call me: Owned by Telia. Often focuses on social responsibility in their marketing.
- Eesy: Owned by TDC (Nuuday). Offers access to the TDC network at a lower price point.
Expat-Specific Providers
- Lebara: Runs on the Telenor/Telia network. Excellent for international calls. No credit checks for prepaid.
- Lyca Mobile: Runs on the TDC network. Very cheap international bundles.
Bundled Services and Entertainment Packages
A unique feature of the Danish mobile market is the bundling of streaming services. To increase customer retention, operators offer “Play” subscriptions.
Telmore Play and YouSee
Telmore (a TDC brand) is famous for this. A “Telmore Play” subscription might cost 300-400 DKK but includes Netflix, Viaplay, HBO Max, Disney+, and TV2 Play. If you subscribe to these services individually, the cost is significantly higher. For an expat setting up a household, these bundles can offer substantial savings on entertainment.
CBB Mix
CBB offers a flexible model where you can mix and match streaming services with your mobile plan. You can switch services month-to-month.
Music Services
Many operators include a music streaming service. YouSee has “YouSee Musik,” and Telmore has “Telmore Musik.” These are alternatives to Spotify. The data used for streaming music via these proprietary apps often does not count towards your monthly data cap (zero-rating).
Mobile Broadband as Home Internet
For many expats, getting fiber internet installed can take weeks. Mobile broadband Denmark solutions are a popular alternative.
4G/5G Routers
You can purchase a subscription that comes with a SIM card and a Wi-Fi router. You simply plug the router into a power outlet, and you have Wi-Fi. This is ideal for short-term rentals or while waiting for a fiber installation.
Data Limits on Mobile Broadband
Unlike fiber, mobile broadband often has a fair use cap, typically around 1000 GB (1 Terabyte) per month. For most users, this is effectively unlimited. However, heavy gamers or 4K streamers should check the fine print.
Contract Terms, Payment, and Cancellation
Understanding the legal terms of Danish mobile contracts protects you from unexpected fees.
Binding Periods (Bindingsperiode)
For SIM-only subscriptions, the maximum binding period is 6 months. However, most discount companies offer plans with 0 months binding. This means you can cancel anytime. If you buy a smartphone on an installment plan (e.g., a new iPhone paid over 24 months), the service plan is usually bound for 6 months.
Notice Period (Opsigelsesvarsel)
The standard notice period is 30 days. If you cancel on January 1st, you will pay for the service until January 31st.
Porting Your Number
You have the right to keep your phone number when switching providers. You do not need to cancel your old subscription manually. When you sign up with a new provider, you authorize them to move your number. They will contact your old provider and handle the cancellation and transfer. This ensures you do not lose service during the switch.
Payment Methods
- MobilePay: Many prepaid top-ups and initial payments can be made via MobilePay.
- Credit Card: Visa and Mastercard are accepted everywhere.
- Betalingsservice: This is the direct debit system. Most subscriptions require you to register your card or bank account with Betalingsservice for automatic monthly payments. This avoids manual bill payments and late fees.
Coverage in Remote Areas
While Denmark is flat, coverage can vary in forests, summer house areas, and on smaller islands.
Summer Houses (Sommerhuse)
Danes love their summer houses. However, these are often located in areas with strict zoning laws that limit the construction of cell towers. If you are renting a summer house, check the coverage map of the specific operator before going. TDC is historically credited with the best deep-rural coverage, but local variations exist.
Maritime Coverage
If you are taking ferries between islands, coverage is generally good. However, be careful near the German border or on ferries to Sweden/Norway. Your phone might connect to a maritime satellite network or a foreign tower, which could trigger roaming charges if not regulated by EU rules.
Buying Phones on Contract
It is common to buy smartphones through mobile operators in Denmark. The “minimum total price” (Mindste totalpris) must be clearly displayed. This price includes the cost of the phone plus the cost of the subscription for the binding period (usually 6 months).
Sometimes, operators offer significant discounts on hardware if you commit to a 6-month expensive data plan. Expats should calculate the total cost carefully. Often, buying the phone outright and choosing a cheap discount plan (e.g., 99 DKK/month) is cheaper over a two-year period than a subsidized phone contract with a high monthly fee.
Technical Support and Language
English proficiency is very high in Denmark.
- In-Store: Staff in Telia, Telenor, 3, and YouSee stores speak excellent English.
- Phone Support: Most customer service lines have an option for English or staff who can switch languages easily.
- Websites: Major operators often have their self-service apps and websites in Danish only. However, browser translation tools work effectively on these pages. The terms “Data,” “Abonnement” (Subscription), and “Pris” (Price) are easy to recognize.
Emergency Services
Regardless of your plan or credit status, any mobile phone with a signal can call emergency services.
- 112: General emergency number (Police, Fire, Ambulance).
- 114: Police (non-emergency).
- 1813: Medical helpline (in the Capital Region) for non-life-threatening injuries.
Your phone will use any available network to make a 112 call, even if your own provider has no coverage in that specific spot.