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IMMIGRATION

Two thirds failed new Danish citizenship test

Two thirds of the first group of foreign nationals to take a new citizenship test failed, Danish Integration Minister Inger Støjberg confirmed on Tuesday.

Two thirds failed new Danish citizenship test
Study harder, the integration minister said. Photo: Colourbox
The new test, which is part of Støjberg’s plan to “make it significantly harder to get Danish citizenship”, was given for the first time in June. 
 
Just 31.2 percent of those who took the new test passed, while 68.8 percent failed. 
 
Ever since a random sample of test takers carried out by Politiken newspaper last month revealed that most failed the test, it has come under fire for its focus on historical events and figures. A number of Danish media outlets have posted the test on their websites and even natural-born Danes had a hard time passing it, leading to a number of political calls to revamp the exam.
 
The new test (indfødsretsprøven) replaced an earlier and easier citizenship test (statsborgerskabsprøven) that was introduced by the previous government in 2014.
 
The new version focuses more on Danish history and requires 32 correct answers out of 40 (80 percent) to pass, while the previous test had a more modern focus and required 22 correct answers out of 30 (73 percent). 
 
The new version has a number of rather obscure historical questions that have been roundly criticized. Testees are required to know such things as which year the first ‘Olsen Banden’ film premiered, what the ballet Sylfiden is about, what century the Jyske Lov is from and the life span of composer Carl Nielsen. 
 
Other questions include identifying the number of municipalities (kommuner) in Denmark, which Danish restaurant has three Michelin stars (this one) and whether religious views need to adhere to society's rules.
 
Støjberg on Tuesday confirmed that 68.8 percent of those who took the test for the first time failed, but said people had simply failed to properly study for it. 
 
“It should be hard to become a Danish citizen because it is something special. Therefore, one needs to earn it. You need to prepare yourself and take the test. On top of that you need to stay away from crime and take care of yourself [financially],” she told news agency Ritzau. 
 
Those taking the citizenship test are provided with study materials that include the answers to the test questions. The test is given twice each year, in June and December. 
 
A number of Danish media have posted the test questions on their websites. The test, which is obviously in Danish, can be taken at any of the following:
 

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DANISH CITIZENSHIP

Do you need to get a Danish passport after obtaining citizenship?

In Denmark, obtaining a Danish passport is not legally required after gaining citizenship. However, there are several reasons why getting one is a good idea.

Do you need to get a Danish passport after obtaining citizenship?

When you become a citizen of Denmark, you are eligible to apply for a Danish passport, but it’s not a legal obligation.

READ MORE: How to apply for citizenship in Denmark

This approach offers flexibility for those who may already have a travel document from other nations or do not wish to apply for a Danish passport immediately.

However, while not a legal requirement, there are considerable benefits to holding a Danish passport.

Why it’s a good idea to get a Danish passport

The document allows hassle-free travel across the European Union (EU) and numerous other countries, as it’s a reflection of the country’s strong diplomatic ties worldwide.

While new citizens of Denmark are not restricted to using a Danish passport for international travel travelling with a non-Danish passport might require additional visas or entry permits, depending on the destination.

Therefore, the Danish passport serves as a form of identification, simplifying bureaucratic and ID processes within and outside Denmark.

They also highlight to the Danish border force that you are exempt from any restrictions or requirements when crossing onto Danish soil.   

Consular assistance for passport holders

With a Danish passport, you can access consular services and assistance provided by Danish embassies and consulates worldwide.

They effectively extend the reach of Denmark’s government into foreign territories, offering a broad range of services – including emergency assistance, legal services, passport replacement, travel information, and others – that can be vital to Danish passport holders who encounter challenging situations during their travels abroad.

If you face a medical emergency, the consulate or embassy can help you locate medical facilities, contact your family, and provide guidance on dealing with local authorities.

Furthermore, they also offer notarial services such as document legalisations and certifications, often required for legal proceedings in foreign countries.

You can find the contact information for Danish embassies and consulates on this page of the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Dual citizenship and passports

Dual citizenship, which refers to people legally recognized as citizens of two countries simultaneously, makes things somewhat different.

READ MORE: What does gaining Danish citizenship mean to dual nationals?

Until 2015, Denmark’s policy was generally against dual citizenship. It required people to renounce their previous nationality when becoming Danish citizens.

In September 2015, Denmark changed its laws to allow dual citizenship. This means that you can now hold Danish citizenship and another nationality without giving up one of them.

Once your second citizenship is granted, provided it’s Danish, you’ll be eligible (though not obligated, as we’ve already explained) to apply for a Danish passport.

You’ll have to follow the standard application process, which involves applying at a local police station in Denmark or Danish consulates abroad if you’re residing overseas.

Furthermore, you’ll need to hand in the required documentation (proof of citizenship, ID, etc.) and pay a fee.

The Local has a deep-dive explainer on the rules for dual-nationals travelling in Denmark, where you can find more details on the issue.

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