A Filmmaker’s Guide
to Shooting in Denmark
Our company works with local professionals to make sure you
are getting the right help throughout media production.
Permits in Denmark: What You Need to Know
To film in Denmark, you will need the applicable film permits. Fortunately, most permits are free of charge. For a standard shoot that doesn’t involve stopping traffic, cordoning off pedestrian pathways, or entering private property, permits are usually processed within a few days. That said, as the process is in Danish, using a local line production company is recommended.
Any film shoot utilising public space, such as laying track, setting up rigs, or even using a tripod, requires permission. This also applies to filming at iconic locations like The Little Mermaid statue. The only exception is shooting unobtrusive B-roll.
In Copenhagen, permits are applied for through the City of Copenhagen website, with processing times ranging from five days for traffic control to two weeks if you’re looking for exclusive filming space.
Timing Your Danish Film Production around the Weather
You can film in Denmark at any time of the year. However, you need to be mindful of the different weather conditions. For example, in summer, you can enjoy up to 17 hours of daylight. From June to mid-August, sunrise can be as early as 4.45am with sunset not taking place until closer to 10pm.
Winter, by contrast, can be cold, dark, and overcast, with as little as seven hours of daylight from December to February. Danish winters also have up to 30 days of snowfall between November to March, with average temperatures ranging from highs of 2 to 4°C (36-40°F) and lows of 0 to -3°C (32-27°F).
Spring and autumn offer milder weather, but temperatures can still fluctuate depending on where your Danish film production is located. A local film fixer can assist you if sudden changes in the weather necessitate immediate changes in your filming schedule.
Whatever the season, however, it’s essential to equip your crew for the elements and protect your gear from rain, snow and freezing winter temperatures.
Planning Filming Equipment Rental & Local Crew Logistics
Bringing your own video gear to Denmark might make sense if you’re travelling from another nearby EU country. For the most part, however, local filming equipment rental and crew hire can save time, cost and hassle. If you work with us, we’ll connect you with trusted suppliers so that your kit is ready and waiting as soon as you arrive.
We can also provide you with a full crew of English-speaking professionals, whether you’re filming in Copenhagen or a smaller Danish hamlet. Denmark’s high cost of living and strong industry unions mean that rates tend to be on the higher side compared to some other European countries. That said, fees vary based on project scope, role and usage rights, and there is always room for negotiation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it an ATA carnet country?
Denmark accepts ATA Carnets, which makes it easier for you as an international filmmaker to bring through professional filming equipment for your shoot without paying duties or taxes.
Is it safe for me and my team to film there?
Yes. Denmark is ranked as the fifth safest country in the world on the Global Peace Index. There is a strong emphasis on public safety, which has led to a crime rate that is very much below the European average.
Do I need a visa or a work visa to film there?
EU/EEA citizens do not need a visa. Non-EU citizens may require a short-term visa, but for most filming project cases, no special work visa is needed. That said, do check the current rules with your local Danish Embassy before travel.
Do I need a local company to film or get visas there?
Yes, it is necessary to work with a local company to secure permits and to deal with any national or local authorities, particularly as all procedures are carried out in Danish.
Do I need a permit for drones?
Yes you do. Permits must be obtained from the Danish Transport Authority (DTA) and adhere to airspace regulations. Costs for drone film permits may vary based on your requirements, but they are generally manageable.
Is there a cash rebate/tax exemption or any other fiscal advantage?
Not yet, but Denmark is expected to launch a production rebate scheme, with a 25% refund on eligible production costs incurred in Denmark, in 2026.
Can I shoot in a national park and, if so, under what circumstances?
Filming in national parks is allowed with special permits, but these depend on the film project details. Requirements for permits vary by location but typically include an environmental impact review and proof of low production impact.
Working with Fixer Denmark
When you work with Fixer Denmark, you can expect experienced cinematographers, technical crew members and production assistants who know the language and the local communities and are well-versed in filming in Denmark.
As a member of Storytailors, a world-leading global video production agency, we’ve supported several major commercial and corporate film productions, and multi-location shoots in Europe and beyond. Clients include Google, Netflix, the BBC, FIFA, Formula 1, UNESCO, Adidas and more. We’re also proud to include many A-list stars in our portfolio, including Keanu Reeves and Idris Elba.
If you want expert support to help make your Denmark video production smoother, faster and more enjoyable, get in touch today.
