A proposal to tighten the conditions for issuing spouses' family reunion permits and permanent residency permits has been made by the Danish Ministry of Immigration and Integration. According to information provided by the Danish Immigration Service, those who have been accused of specific offences will no longer be eligible for permanent residence under the proposed reforms. Similarly, the Danish Immigration Service stressed that the rules for permanent residence permits would also tighten for spouses seeking family reunification in cases where the spouse in Denmark is a foreigner but not a refugee. In case the proposal is approved, the new rules will affect all applications for permanent residence permits as well as family reunification for spouses that have been submitted from the date when the regulation was presented to Denmark’s Parliament. The proposal was put forth on April 11, 2024, which means that all applications submitted on and after this date will be processed in line with the new rules if the bill is approved. By tightening the requirements for permanent residency and family reunification, Denmark wants to ensure safety and security. The country also wants to mitigate potential risks linked with criminal activities.

Denmark Aims to Pursue a Strict Immigration Policy, Minister for Immigration & Integration Says

Denmark’s Minister for Immigration and Integration, Kaare Dybvad Bek, who proposed the bill, said that the country wants to pursue a strict and consistent immigration policy. In the proposal, it is noted that it is crucial for Denmark to manage the flow into its territory in order to ensure proper integration. Moreover, it was highlighted that “the government pledges to maintain a firm immigration policy that does not unnecessarily obstruct ordinary families.” In line with the country’s objective, the proposal says that changes have been proposed regarding language requirements when it comes to family reunification. In addition, the proposal from Minister Dybvad says that the legislation aims to reduce the financial security amount required for family reunification by half. Additionally, it has been proposed that the eligibility for Danish language tests be extended and that the housing requirements for family reunification be simplified.