Denmark Revises Study Visa Rules Amid Concerns Over Academic Dropouts

Danish Government Introduces Stricter Entry Rules for Third-Country Students

On 18 September 2025, the Danish Ministry of Immigration and Integration announced a series of reforms to Denmark's international student regulations to stop abuse of study visas as a means into the Danish labour market. The ministry explained that it will be "considerably more difficult" for third-country students, especially from Bangladesh and Nepal, to enter Danish universities if they do not possess suitable academic qualifications. Authorities reported that some overseas students were taking university admission as a backdoor to employment, instead of pursuing true academic objectives. The ministry pointed to high dropout rates, poor attendance in exams, and low passing rates among Nepali and Bangladeshi students, together with a tendency to take unskilled jobs more than other overseas students. These trends, it was implied, presented issues to labour market protection and to the integrity of the education system.

After this, Denmark implemented a number of new measures. These are more stringent study visa restrictions, stronger document verification processes, and specific entrance tests or language proficiency tests for students applying from specific countries. The universities will have to check educational documents more thoroughly now, with the support of the National ID Centre. The Centre will also examine previously granted residence permits to determine if any were acquired based on false documents. Along with this, the government introduced changes to family reunification rights, reducing the scope for international students to bring dependents. The post-study job search window will also be cut to a year from three years as part of the overall work permit restrictions. This builds on previous reforms that curbed work rights for students studying on non-state-approved programs or courses without formal accreditation.

A recent study by the Ministry for Higher Education and Research showed that certain Danish universities received dubious applications through agents, especially from Bangladesh and Nepal. Aarhus University, which has the largest Bangladeshi student cohort, said that one-third of these students seemed more keen on remaining in Denmark than attending classes. Other institutions, such as Copenhagen Business School and Aalborg University, mentioned that agents frequently marketed Denmark as having simpler residence possibilities compared to other EU nations.

The survey further accentuated academic issues. Bangladeshi students in Aarhus reported a 13% dropout rate in 2023–2024 compared to 4% for other foreign students. Their pass rates and attendance during exams were also much lower. Universities linked these results to inexperience with group work and exam structures, even when students were on time and dedicated. While the Danish universities and student societies generally welcomed the government's attempt to combat visa abuse, they raised the concern that higher tuition fees could lower accessibility. Aarhus University observed that the new regulations would necessitate the need for more administrative resources and strict implementation. The National Union of Students in Denmark cautioned that the rise in fees could render Danish higher education less accessible to students from disadvantaged backgrounds, especially those from outside the EU/EEA.

The move was met with criticism by Bangladeshi and Nepali students, who contended that it reinforced negative stereotypes and ignored the economic strain on many students. They pointed out that, with few scholarship opportunities available, part-time work was frequently a matter of survival. Student organisations and alumni groups demanded equitable treatment and requested both governments to help bridge gaps in recruitment practices. Industry players like Ujjol Mia, CEO of Aspire Global Pathways, emphasised responsible action by education agents and called on the Bangladeshi government to step in. He recommended proactive action to prevent further bans and safeguard genuine students wishing to pursue studies in Denmark.

Overall, Danish immigration policy changes evidence a move towards greater control and targeted intervention. Although the government wants to maintain academic standards and defend the labour market, the problem is to reconcile these objectives with fairness, accessibility, and international cooperation.

Editor's Note

Denmark's recent reforms to its student rules represent a clear shift in the country's attitudes toward student migration. By tightening up entry conditions, cutting post-study work rights, and restricting reunification with family members, the government is making an unequivocal statement: study visas are not for quasi-entry into the labour market. Denmark's concerns about high dropout rates, the influx of unskilled labour, and document forgery among students from Bangladesh and Nepal are understandable. However, the current response risks unfairly generalising these entire groups. While it's crucial to protect the integrity of the education system and the labour market, genuine, qualified, dedicated, and hardworking students should not face undue penalties. The new regulations raise accessibility concerns. Higher tuition fees and stricter visa requirements could discourage talented students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Denmark must balance its immigration policies with its reputation as an accessible, internationally focused education destination.

Skoobuzz believes that this situation calls for reflection not only in Denmark but also in the sending countries. Governments, universities, and agents must collaborate to ensure transparency, fairness, and support for students genuinely seeking an education, rather than shortcuts.

FAQs

1. What changes did Denmark make for international students in 2025?

Denmark introduced stricter rules for international students, including tighter academic entry requirements, targeted language and entrance tests, stronger checks on educational documents, and reduced post-study work rights. The government also limited family reunification and shortened the post-study job search period from three years to one. These changes are part of broader efforts to prevent misuse of study visas and protect the Danish labour market.

2. Which students are affected by the new Danish rules?

The new rules mainly affect third-country students, especially those from Bangladesh and Nepal, who were highlighted due to higher dropout rates and concerns over academic and language preparedness. Students applying to non-state-approved programmes or courses without proper accreditation are also impacted.

3. Can international students still work in Denmark?

Yes, international students can still work part-time during their studies. However, the government has placed work permit restrictions, especially for students enrolled in unaccredited programmes, and is monitoring work patterns more closely to ensure that study remains the primary purpose of their stay.

4. Is post‑study job search allowed under the new rules?

Yes, but the post-study job search period has been reduced. Previously, international graduates could stay for up to three years to find work. Under the new rules, this period is now limited to one year.

5. Can international students bring families under the new rules?

The new rules have introduced restrictions on family reunification rights. It will now be more difficult for international students to bring dependents or family members with them to Denmark, especially if they are from third countries.