May 31 deadline for invalid banknotes, DKK 21.1bn collected

Sunday, May 31, marks the final day for the public to submit 1000-krone banknotes and older series from 1944, 1952, 1972, and 1997 to Danmarks Nationalbank's exchange points.

After this deadline, these banknotes will become worthless.

The Nationalbank has been collecting these notes for two and a half years, since November 30, 2023.

Chief Cashier Niels Kaas advises quick action and careful preparation, including bringing necessary forms and documentation, due to anticipated long waiting times.

He emphasizes that deploying extra staff and providing on-site guidance aims to manage the expected heavy demand at the exchange points in Aarhus, Copenhagen, and Odense.

The Nationalbank has processed over 43,000 submissions since December 2024, receiving more than DKK 200 million.

In total, DKK 21.1 billion worth of banknotes have been submitted since the process began in November 2023.

Until June 2025, 1000-krone banknotes and older series were still accepted in shops and for bank deposits.

Since then, Danmarks Nationalbank's three exchange points, operated by FOREX stores in Aarhus, Odense, and Copenhagen, have been the only option.

Individuals must appear in person and bring a digitally completed and printed submission form, a valid physical photo ID (e.g., passport or driving license), and proof of residential address (e.g., a health card).

For larger amounts, supplementary documentation is also required.

Businesses are subject to specific documentation requirements.

Residents in Greenland and the Faroe Islands have an alternative, able to exchange banknotes at their local banks until May 29, 2026, two days before the main deadline.