- 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 connectivity is one of the first tasks for any newcomer to Scandinavia. Telenor Denmark represents one of the major network operators in the country, offering extensive coverage and premium services tailored to long-term residents. Understanding how Telenor fits into the broader landscape of mobile plans in Denmark is essential for making an informed choice.
The Danish mobile market is highly competitive, resulting in high-quality networks and relatively low prices compared to many other Western countries. However, accessing these standard subscriptions often requires specific documentation that new arrivals may not possess immediately.
This guide explores the services offered by Telenor, the requirements for signing up, and the alternatives available for expats who have just arrived. It covers the technical differences between physical SIM cards and eSIMs, as well as the crucial rules regarding EU roaming.
Main Network Operators
Denmark has excellent mobile infrastructure. The country is small and flat, which makes it easier for operators to provide comprehensive signal coverage. There are three main physical infrastructure owners in Denmark.
TDC (YouSee) operates the largest independent network. 3 (Tre) operates its own network, primarily focused on data and major cities. The third infrastructure is a joint venture between Telenor Denmark and Telia.
Telenor and Telia merged their radio access networks into a shared infrastructure called the TT-Network. This collaboration means that Telenor customers benefit from the combined tower density of two major providers. This results in coverage that rivals or exceeds TDC in many rural areas.
Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs)
Most mobile companies in Denmark do not own their own towers. They are Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) that rent capacity from the three main networks. These smaller companies often offer lower prices by cutting out physical stores and premium extras.
Telenor owns a discount brand called CBB Mobil. CBB operates on the Telenor network but functions as an online-only provider. This distinction is important for expats to understand. If you want the Telenor network but do not need physical shop support, a discount brand might be cheaper.
Requirements for Standard Mobile Subscriptions with Telenor
Signing up for a postpaid mobile contract with a major provider like Telenor involves strict identity checks. This is a regulatory requirement in Denmark to prevent fraud and money laundering.
To sign up for a standard monthly plan, you generally need three things:
- A Danish CPR Number: This is your civil registration number (ID number). You receive this only after registering your residence in Denmark.
- A Danish Address: Your CPR number must be registered to a valid address in the Danish Civil Registration System (CPR-registeret).
- MitID: This is the Danish digital ID used for online banking and government services. Most telecom providers require you to sign the contract digitally using MitID.
If you have recently arrived and are waiting for your residence permit or CPR card, you cannot sign up for a standard Telenor subscription online. The system will reject your application without these credentials.
Options for Expats Without a CPR Number
Foreigners who have not yet received their CPR number must rely on prepaid options. These are often referred to as “Taletidskort” (talk-time cards). While less common than subscription plans, they are vital for the initial transition period.
You can purchase a prepaid SIM card Denmark allows you to use immediately without a contract. These can be bought at convenience stores like 7-Eleven, kiosks, and some supermarkets. You do not need a bank account or a CPR number to buy these starter packs.
Lebara and Lyca Mobile
The two most popular providers for non-CPR holders are Lebara Denmark and Lyca Mobile. Both operate on the Telenor/Telia network. This means you get the same signal quality as a direct Telenor customer, but with a different payment model.
Lebara is widely favored by expats because their website offers an English language option. You register your credit card for automatic top-ups, simulating a subscription experience without the credit check requirements. Once you receive your CPR number and MitID, you can easily port your number to a main Telenor subscription if you desire premium features.
Mobile Plans and Pricing Overview
Danish mobile packages are generally structured around data allowances. Unlimited talk and SMS are standard in almost all packages except the very cheapest pay-as-you-go options. The price difference is driven by the amount of data included and the amount of that data that can be used while roaming in the EU.
The following table compares the typical tiers of mobile service available to residents in Denmark.
| Plan Type | Target Audience | Data Allowance | EU Roaming Data | CPR Required? | Approx. Price (DKK/month) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prepaid / Pay-as-you-go | New arrivals, tourists, short-term stays | 10GB – 100GB | 2GB – 5GB | No | 49 – 99 DKK |
| Discount Postpaid (MVNO) | Residents wanting value (e.g., CBB, Oister) | 30GB – 200GB | 10GB – 20GB | Yes | 89 – 129 DKK |
| Premium Postpaid | Power users, families (e.g., Telenor, Telia) | Unlimited | 25GB – 40GB | Yes | 179 – 249 DKK |
| Family Plans | Households with multiple lines | Shared / Unlimited | Varies per line | Yes | 129 – 159 DKK per user |
Value for money in Denmark is high. For approximately 100 to 150 DKK per month, most residents can secure a plan with ample data for daily use. Premium plans from operators like Telenor often cost more but include value-added services such as streaming subscriptions, extensive roaming outside the EU, and access to physical support stores.
It is important to note that prices fluctuate based on competition. Providers frequently offer “introductory offers” where the price is halved for the first three months. Always check the fine print for the price after the introductory period ends.
Telenor Denmark: Services and Benefits
Choosing Telenor directly, rather than one of its discount brands, comes with specific advantages. The primary benefit is customer service. Telenor maintains physical retail stores in most major Danish cities and shopping centers.
For an expat struggling with language barriers or technical settings, walking into a store and speaking to a representative in English is a significant relief. Discount providers usually offer support only via email or chat, which can be frustrating during complex technical issues.
Family Discounts (Samlerabat)
Telenor offers discounts for bundling services. If you purchase home internet and mobile subscriptions together, or if you have multiple mobile lines for family members, the monthly cost per line decreases. This “Samlerabat” makes Telenor competitive for families, even if their single-line prices are higher than budget carriers.
Device Subsidies
Major operators like Telenor sell smartphones with payment plans. If you commit to a six-month subscription, you can often purchase a new phone at a discount or pay it off in interest-free installments. This financing option is generally only available to residents who have lived in Denmark for a certain period and have a credit history.
EU Roaming and “Roam Like at Home”
European Union regulations mandate “Roam Like at Home.” This means you can use your Danish mobile phone in other EU countries without paying extra roaming fees for calls and SMS. However, data usage is subject to fair use limits.
A domestic plan with “Unlimited Data” in Denmark will not offer unlimited data in Spain or Germany. Instead, there is a cap, typically between 20GB and 40GB depending on the price of your plan. Once you exceed this EU cap, you will be charged a surcharge per gigabyte.
Telenor Roam Away
Telenor differentiates itself with a service often branded as “Roam Away” or “Roam Away+.” While standard EU roaming covers Europe, Telenor’s premium plans often include roaming in countries outside the EU, such as the USA, Thailand, Turkey, and Great Britain.
For expats who frequently travel outside of Europe or return home to non-EU countries, this feature can save significant money. It eliminates the need to buy local SIM cards for short trips. Always verify the specific list of countries included in your specific plan, as this changes between subscription tiers.
Physical SIM vs. eSIM in Denmark
Denmark is advanced in its adoption of digital technologies. Most major operators, including Telenor, support eSIM Denmark technology. An eSIM is a digital profile embedded in your phone, replacing the traditional plastic card.
Benefits of eSIM for Expats
The primary advantage of an eSIM is the speed of delivery. You do not need to wait for a letter in the mail. When you sign up for a subscription, you receive a QR code via email or in the provider’s self-service portal. You scan this code to activate your line immediately.
This is particularly useful if you have a phone that supports dual SIMs. You can keep your home country’s SIM card active to receive bank OTPs (One Time Passwords) while using the Danish eSIM for local data and calls. This dual setup is the standard configuration for most international residents in Denmark.
Tourist eSIMs
If you are visiting Denmark for a short time or need data before you get your CPR number, you can purchase a specific tourist eSIM Denmark. These are data-only plans provided by international companies like Airalo or Holafly. They do not provide a Danish phone number (+45), which limits their utility for residency registration, but they ensure you have internet access the moment your plane lands.
5G Coverage and Network Speed
Denmark has rapidly rolled out 5G technology. Telenor announced the completion of its nationwide 5G upgrade in recent years. This means that in the vast majority of the country, including rural areas, 5G signals are available.
To access 5G in Denmark, you must have a 5G-compatible device and a plan that includes 5G access. Most mid-tier and premium plans from Telenor include 5G at no extra cost. Some budget plans on other networks may restrict users to 4G/LTE speeds to keep costs down.
Speeds on the Telenor network are generally very high. In cities like Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Odense, download speeds can easily exceed 300 Mbps. This high speed makes mobile data a viable alternative to fixed-line internet for some users.
Mobile Broadband as an Alternative
For expats moving into a new apartment, getting fiber internet installed can take weeks. A popular temporary (or permanent) solution is mobile broadband. Telenor offers mobile routers that connect to the 4G or 5G network and create a Wi-Fi hotspot in your home.
These “Internet-to-go” solutions usually offer higher data caps than phone plans, often up to 1000GB or truly unlimited. Because they run on the same mobile network, you can take the router with you to a summer house or a friend’s place. This flexibility is valuable for those in temporary housing.
Switching Providers and Number Porting
The Danish telecom market is designed to make switching providers easy. If you start with a prepaid solution like Lebara and later want to switch to a Telenor contract, you can keep your number.
The process is handled by the new provider. When you sign up with Telenor, you authorize them to contact your current provider and move the number. You do not need to cancel your old subscription yourself; the porting process automatically cancels the old plan once the number is transferred.
Standard notice periods are usually 30 days. If you are bound by a six-month contract (common if you bought a discounted phone), you may have to pay a fee to leave early. Prepaid cards have no binding period, making them the easiest to leave.
Customer Service and Language
Danes speak excellent English, and this extends to customer support in the telecom industry. Telenor’s phone support and in-store staff are proficient in English. However, automated phone menus and written contracts are often in Danish by default.
When calling customer service, listen for an option to press a specific number for English. If one is not presented, stay on the line. When a representative answers, simply ask if they speak English. In almost every case, they will switch languages immediately without hesitation.
The self-service apps provided by operators are also increasingly English-friendly, though some sections may remain in Danish. Using a browser with built-in translation features can help you navigate the “Mit Telenor” (My Telenor) login area to check your data usage and bills.
Summary of Steps for New Arrivals
To secure mobile connectivity efficiently, follow this logical progression:
- Arrival: Purchase a prepaid SIM (Lebara/Lyca) or a travel eSIM for immediate data.
- Registration: Apply for your CPR number and MitID at the International Citizen Service or municipality.
- Evaluation: Once you have your credentials, compare long-term plans. Consider Telenor if you need roaming outside the EU or family discounts. Consider discount brands if price is the only factor.
- Porting: Sign up for your chosen plan using MitID and request to port your temporary prepaid number to the new contract.
By following this path, you ensure you are never without a connection while navigating the administrative requirements of settling in Denmark.