For entrepreneurs and digital nomads considering Denmark as a base for their next venture, the question of company creation and ongoing costs is more than academic—it’s a matter of strategic freedom. Navigating state-imposed fees and compliance hurdles can feel like a maze, but with the right data and a few smart tactics, you can minimize friction and maximize your autonomy. Here’s a clear, data-driven breakdown of what it really costs to start and maintain a standard company (Anpartsselskab, or ApS) in Denmark in 2025, with actionable tips to keep your fiscal burden in check.
Company Formation Costs in Denmark: What to Expect in 2025
Setting up an ApS (private limited liability company) is the most common route for international founders in Denmark. Here’s a transparent look at the average outlay, based strictly on the latest figures:
| Cost Item | Amount (DKK) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum capital requirement | 40,000 | Must be deposited; can be used for company expenses post-formation |
| Registration fee (Erhvervsstyrelsen) | 670 | One-time, paid to the Danish Business Authority |
| Average lawyer fees (formation, documentation, advice) | 3,330 | Varies by provider; includes legal setup and compliance advice |
| Total Average Creation Cost | 44,000 |
Case Example: If you’re launching a SaaS startup, expect to deposit DKK 40,000 as share capital (which you can later use for business expenses), pay a DKK 670 registration fee, and budget around DKK 3,330 for legal setup. That’s a total of DKK 44,000 to get your ApS off the ground in 2025.
Annual Maintenance Costs: Staying Compliant Without Overpaying
Once your ApS is live, annual costs are driven by mandatory accounting, reporting, and (optionally) legal advisory. Here’s the breakdown for 2025:
| Cost Item | Annual Amount (DKK) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mandatory accounting/auditing services | 6,000 | Required for all ApS; covers bookkeeping, annual report, tax filing |
| Annual reporting/filing fee (digital self-service) | 0 | No extra fee if you file digitally; otherwise, included in accounting |
| Optional legal/accounting advisory | Up to 9,000 | Recommended for compliance and optimization, but not mandatory |
| Total Annual Maintenance | 6,000–15,000 | Depending on advisory needs |
Mini Case Study: A remote-first consultancy with straightforward finances can keep annual costs close to DKK 6,000 by handling filings digitally and limiting advisory spend. More complex operations or those seeking proactive compliance advice should budget up to DKK 15,000 per year.
Pro Tip: Optimize Your Company Setup and Ongoing Costs
- Leverage the minimum capital: The DKK 40,000 share capital isn’t a sunk cost—it can be used for legitimate business expenses after registration. Plan your cash flow accordingly.
- File digitally: Use the Danish Business Authority’s digital self-service to avoid unnecessary annual filing fees. (Official guide)
- Shop around for legal/accounting services: Fees vary. Compare providers and consider only essential advisory to keep costs lean.
- Stay ahead of compliance: Regulatory changes can impact costs. Monitor updates from official sources to avoid penalties or surprise expenses.
Key Takeaways for 2025: Denmark Company Costs at a Glance
- Startup cost for an ApS: DKK 44,000 (including capital, registration, and legal fees)
- Annual maintenance: DKK 6,000–15,000, depending on advisory needs
- Digital filing is free—use it to minimize recurring costs
- Capital requirement is flexible—can be used for business after setup
For more details and the latest regulatory updates, consult these official resources: