Denmark has banned the wearing of face veils in public, effectively restricting the burqa and niqab worn by some Muslim women.
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A majority of members of parliament agreed on a so-called clearing agreement that means the ban will be effective from August 1.
First time offenders will be fined 1,000 Danish crowns ($A211). After the fourth violation the fine will increase to 10,000 crowns.
The ban was carried by a 75-30 vote in the Danish parliament on Thursday.
It will include full-face veils like the niqab, balaclavas, face-covering ski masks, face masks and fake beards, but not protective masks.
Other exceptions include winter clothing, such as scarves, and costumes and masks worn for carnival or Halloween.
Danish parties have been divided over the bill, including in the ruling centre-right minority coalition.
Some countries in Europe, including Austria, Belgium and France, have previously introduced restrictions on wearing full-face veils in public spaces.
A 2010 report estimated up to 200 women in Denmark, a country of 5.7 million, used full-face veils.
Australian Associated Press
