From September 1, 2025, new rules will come into force that change access to information about beneficial owners in the CVR register. In the future, the information will no longer be freely available to the public, but only to selected actors.
Background information
The new rules (§§18a-d of the Central Business Register Act) are a consequence of an EU Court of Justice ruling from 2022. The Court ruled that full public access to information about beneficial owners constituted an unreasonable interference with the right to privacy and protection of personal data. This has since been incorporated into the EU’s 6th Money Laundering Directive and now implemented in Danish law.
Who gets access?
The starting point is that there is no longer public access. However, the following actors can still access the information if they request it:
- Competent authorities and the Money Laundering Secretariat (e.g. Tax, Police, FSA, etc.)
- Obligated entities for KYC procedures (e.g. banks, lawyers, real estate agents, etc.)
- Persons with a legitimate interest (e.g. the press or companies in connection with potential customer or business relationships).
The Danish Business Authority suggests a broad interpretation of the concept of legitimate interest. This means, among other things, that you may have a legitimate interest in connection with new customers or business partners, while there is no access if the purpose is solely to gain knowledge of competitors’ ownership.
How to get access
If you belong to one of the stakeholder groups that still have access, you can search for the information on CVR.dk via MyID and a solemn declaration.
If you are the beneficial owner
As a registered beneficial owner, you have the right to access the information registered about you. By contacting the Danish Business Authority, you can also get a list of who has access to the information under the category “legitimate interest”.
Violation of the rules
It is a criminal offense to disclose information about beneficial owners to persons who are not entitled to access or to publish the information. Violations are punishable by a fine – even if committed with gross negligence.
What does this mean for businesses?
Although access is restricted, the rules do not change the obligation for companies to register their beneficial owners and ensure that the information is correct and up to date.
Do you have questions about the new rules or need help registering and updating beneficial owners?
Contact Kielberg Advokater – we are happy to advise you.
Read more at the Danish Business Authority: Guidance on access to information about beneficial owners
