How to Register with a GP in Denmark as an Expat
Once you have your CPR number, one of your first tasks is registering with a GP. In Denmark, your GP is your gateway to the entire healthcare system. Almost all specialist referrals and medical treatment go through them first.
The good news is that registration is straightforward, and for most new arrivals it happens almost automatically.
How healthcare works in Denmark for expats
Denmark operates a universal public healthcare system funded through taxes. If you live and work in Denmark and are registered with the Folkeregisteret, you are entitled to the same healthcare as Danish citizens at no direct cost.
Expats staying in Denmark for more than three months and holding a valid residency registration are enrolled in the public healthcare system automatically once they receive their CPR number.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your GP or a qualified healthcare provider for personal medical guidance.
Your yellow health card
After registering your CPR number, you will receive a yellow sundhedskort (health insurance card) by post within two to four weeks. This card shows:
Your full name
Your CPR number
The name, address, and phone number of your registered GP
If your assigned GP is not convenient for your location or is not accepting patients, you can change them. See the section below on how to do this.
How to find a GP in Denmark
Denmark assigns GPs based on your registered address and availability in your area. However, you can search for available GPs and manage your registration using sundhed.dk, Denmark's national health portal:
1. Go to sundhed.dk and select "Find Behandler" (Find Practitioner)
2. Choose "Praktiserende læge" (General Practitioner) as the type
3. Enter your postcode or municipality
4. Filter by language if you need an English-speaking GP
Not all GPs are accepting new patients. The sundhed.dk search shows which practices currently have capacity.
How to change your GP
If the GP assigned to you is not suitable, you can change to a different one. Changing your GP costs 40 DKK in 2026.
Online (recommended): Log in to sundhed.dk with MitID, search for a GP accepting new patients near you, and submit a change request. The change takes effect within a few days.
In person: If you do not have MitID yet, visit your local Borgerservice centre and they can process the change for you.
What your GP can help with
Your GP in Denmark handles:
General health concerns and routine check-ups
Referrals to specialists and hospitals
Prescriptions
Mental health referrals
Sick notes for your employer
Preventive health services
In most cases you cannot go directly to a specialist or hospital for non-emergency treatment without a referral from your GP. Getting registered quickly matters.
What if you need medical help before your health card arrives?
If you have your CPR number but have not yet received your yellow health card, you can still access healthcare. Contact a GP practice directly, provide your CPR number, and they can look up your registration.
For emergencies, go to the nearest hospital emergency department. Emergency care in Denmark is available to everyone regardless of registration status.
Key takeaways
You are enrolled in Denmark's public healthcare system automatically once you have a CPR number
Your yellow health card arrives by post within two to four weeks of CPR registration
Use sundhed.dk to find English-speaking GPs with availability in your area
Changing your GP costs 40 DKK in 2026 and can be done online via MitID or in person at Borgerservice
Your GP is your gateway to all specialist and hospital care in Denmark
Sources
Sundhed.dk (Find a GP): https://www.sundhed.dk
Life in Denmark healthcare: https://lifeindenmark.borger.dk/healthcare/health-insurance/healthcare-when-working-in-denmark
City of Copenhagen healthcare guide: https://international.kk.dk/live/healthcare/going-to-a-doctor/going-to-a-doctor
Region H healthcare guide: https://www.regionh.dk/english/healthcare-services/emergency-medical-services/pages/your-own-physician-(gp).aspx