On 1 March 2026, Denmark opened a new quota period for residence permits available under its bilateral “Working Holiday” agreements with Argentina and Chile. Appointment bookings at VFS Global (VFS) in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and in Santiago, Chile, opened the next day.1,2
WHY THIS MATTERS
The Working Holiday scheme for citizens of Argentina and Chile operates under strict annual quotas and on a first-come, first-served system. Once the quota is reached, applications are automatically refused. For organizations supporting young talent, international mobility, or applicants planning to travel to Denmark, it is essential to act quickly, prepare documentation in advance, and verify eligibility conditions are met to avoid delays, refusals, or financial loss due to non-refundable fees at VFS.
Key Details
- Argentina has a yearly quota of 150 residence permits under the Working Holiday scheme.
- The quota is divided into two periods:
- March–August: up to 75 permits available.
- September–February: permits available until reaching the annual total of 150.
- Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Normal processing time: Three months.
- Government processing fee (SIRI): DKK 3,060.
- Conditions for eligibility include:
- Being a citizen and resident of Argentina.
- Submitting the application in person in Argentina.
- Meeting age requirements set by Denmark.
- Being able to financially support oneself.
- Holding valid health insurance.
- Purpose of stay must be holidaying, with work permitted within program rules.
KPMG INSIGHTS
This quota based framework reflects Denmark’s structured approach to youth mobility and underscores the need for timely action from applicants. Because the first quota period releases only half of the annual permits, early demand is typically high, increasing the importance of securing VFS appointments as soon as scheduling opens.
Prospective applicants might consider verifying their eligibility and maintaining adequate documentation—particularly proof of funds, insurance, and residency—before attending their appointment. Given the mandatory in-person submission and non-refundable VFS fees, preparation may help reduce both delays and unnecessary costs.
KPMG in Argentina’s Immigration team is available to assist with:
- Evaluating eligibility for the Working Holiday quota;
- Advising on documentation requirements and application steps;
- Supporting compliance with Danish immigration regulations and VFS appointment procedures.
If assignees and/or their programme managers have any questions or concerns about the scope of the update, its application and potential impacts, and appropriate next steps, they should consult with their qualified professional or a member of the GMS team with KPMG in Argentina (see the Contacts section).
ENDNOTES:
1 Ny I Danmark (in Danish), “Åbning af Working Holiday-kvoterne for statsborgere i Chile og Argentina,” published on 27 February 2026.
2 The official portal for foreign nationals who wish to visit, live, or work in Denmark, “New to Denmark.”
Contacts
Disclaimer
* Please note the KPMG International member firm in the United States does not provide immigration or labour law services. However, KPMG Law LLP in Canada can assist clients with U.S. immigration matters.
The information contained in this newsletter was submitted by the KPMG International member firm in Argentina.
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