Work Denmark

Main steps to obtain a work permit in Denmark

 

Finding an employer and getting a job offer

   The first step is to find an employer in Denmark willing to offer you a job. The employer must provide an official job offer that meets Danish standards for pay and working conditions.

 

Choosing the appropriate work permit scheme

   In Denmark, there are various schemes to obtain a work permit depending on your qualifications and the nature of the job:

 Pay Limit Scheme: for highly qualified specialists with a job offer with an annual salary not less than a certain amount set by the government.

  Positive List: for professions experiencing a shortage of qualified specialists in Denmark.

  Fast-track Scheme: for large companies certified by Danish authorities, allowing quicker recruitment of foreign specialists.

 

Submitting an application for a work permit and residence

   After selecting the appropriate scheme, you must submit an application to the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI). The application can be submitted online via the portal (https://www.nyidanmark.dk/), or through the Danish embassy or consulate in your country.

 

Required documents

 

- Completed application form: available on the site (https://www.nyidanmark.dk/).

- Valid passport: copy of all pages with stamps.

- Passport-format photos: meeting the Schengen zone requirements.

- Employment contract or official job offer: specifying working conditions, salary, and contract duration.

- Qualification proof: diplomas, certificates, and other documents confirming your professional qualifications.

- Proof of financial solvency: documents confirming sufficient funds for living in Denmark.

- Health insurance: valid within Denmark for the period of application processing.

- Receipt of payment for the processing fee: the fee amount depends on the chosen scheme and may vary, current information is available on the site (https://www.nyidanmark.dk/).

 

Please note that depending on the chosen scheme and your specific situation, additional documents may be required. It is recommended to carefully familiarize yourself with the requirements on the official website or consult the Danish embassy or consulate.

 

Processing time: Processing times for applications vary depending on the chosen scheme and the workload of immigration services. On average, the process takes from 1 to 3 months.

 

Additional recommendations

Consultation with the employer: your future employer may provide additional information and support in the process of obtaining a work permit.

Employment for EU citizens

 

Right to work and reside: EU, European Economic Area, and Swiss citizens have the right to freely enter, reside, and work in Denmark without needing a work permit or residence permit. However, if staying for more than 90 days, registration with local authorities and obtaining a registration certificate is required.

 

Employment for non-EU citizens

 

Work permit and residence permit: Citizens from countries outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland need to obtain a work permit and residence permit before starting employment in Denmark. The process depends on the applicant's qualifications and the nature of the proposed work.

Identifying the target industry and position: Detailed information about in-demand sectors can be found on the website (https://www.workindenmark.dk/working-in-denmark/sectors-with-high-demand).

 

Preparing a resume and cover letter: Your resume (CV) and cover letter should be tailored to Danish standards:

Resume: Clear, structured, no more than two pages, focusing on relevant experience and achievements.

Cover letter: Personalized, highlighting how your skills match the requirements of the specific vacancy.

Recommendations on writing a resume and cover letter are available at (https://www.workindenmark.dk/job-search-in-denmark).

 

Using online portals for job searching:

 

Workindenmark: The national portal with job listings from Danish companies focused on international candidates. All listings are in English. 

 

Jobindex: The largest Danish job portal offering a wide range of opportunities. Available in English.

 

Jobnet: The official portal of the Danish employment service with an extensive job database.

 

StepStone: An international portal with jobs available in Denmark.

 

A comprehensive list of recommended portals is available at (https://www.workindenmark.dk/getting-started/finding-vacancies-in-denmark/danish-job-portals).

 

Networking and professional connections

 

LinkedIn: Actively use this platform for job searching and establishing connections with potential employers.

Professional events: Attend industry conferences, seminars, and job fairs.

Information on upcoming job fairs is available at (https://www.workindenmark.dk/for-employers/job-fair-calendar).

For successful employment in Denmark, immigrants need to consider several key factors: language proficiency, professional qualifications, work experience, and understanding of the local work culture.

 

Language proficiency

Although English is widely used in Denmark’s business environment, especially in international companies, proficiency in Danish significantly enhances employment opportunities and facilitates social integration. Many positions, particularly in public institutions and fields requiring direct client interactions, require fluency in Danish.

 

Professional qualifications

Denmark values highly qualified professionals, especially in sectors facing labor shortages. Recognition of foreign diplomas and certificates may be required to validate qualifications. The Danish Agency for Higher Education and Science (Uddannelses- og Forskningsstyrelsen) (https://ufm.dk/en/education/recognition-and-transparency/recognition-guide) provides information on recognition of foreign qualifications in Denmark.

 

 

Work experience

Practical experience in the relevant field increases a candidate's competitiveness in the job market. References from previous employers that confirm your professionalism provide an additional advantage.

 

Understanding local work culture

Danish work culture is characterized by a flat hierarchy, a focus on teamwork, and a work-life balance. Understanding these aspects will aid successful integration into the workplace.

 

Recommendations

Networking: Establishing professional contacts through events, seminars, and online platforms such as LinkedIn can assist in job searching.

Trade unions: Many employees in Denmark are members of unions, which provide support and information on worker rights.

 

Additional requirements

Work permit: Citizens from non-EU/EEA countries need to obtain a work permit and residence visa.

Health insurance: Having valid health insurance is essential when employed.

Denmark is known for its high quality of life, stable economy, and favorable working conditions. For immigrants seeking employment opportunities, it is important to know which industries are most in demand. Below are the main sectors where there is a high demand for specialists of various qualifications.

 

Skilled labor

 

Information Technology and Communications

Software programming and development: Specialists in web application, mobile application, and software development are in demand.

Cybersecurity: The rise of digitalization increases the demand for information security experts.

Artificial intelligence and data analysis: Companies seek specialists in machine learning and big data.

 

Healthcare

Doctors and nurses: An aging population increases the demand for medical staff.

Pharmacists and biomedical engineers: The development of the pharmaceutical industry creates new jobs.

 

Engineering Specialties

Electrical and Mechanical Engineers: In demand in the manufacturing sector and energy industry.

Civil Construction: Specialists needed for infrastructure projects.

 

Renewable Energy

Wind Energy Specialists: Denmark leads in wind energy production.

Ecologists and Sustainable Development Engineers: Focus on eco-friendly technologies increases demand for these specialists.

 

Education and Research

Teachers: In demand in international schools and universities.

Research Scientists: Research projects in biotechnology and medicine are actively developing.

 

Unskilled Labor

 

Construction

Workers and Laborers: Needed for the realization of numerous construction projects.

Fitters and Assemblers: In demand on construction sites and in manufacturing.

 

Agriculture

Seasonal Workers: Harvesting and farm work require additional labor force.

Livestock: Assistance in the care of livestock and poultry.

 

Hospitality Industry

Hotel and Restaurant Staff: Waiters, chefs, maids, and administrators are always in demand.

Tourist Services: Guides and service staff in tourist areas.

 

Logistics and Warehousing

Pickers and Loaders: Needed in distribution centers and warehouses.

Drivers: Transportation of goods within and outside the country.

 

Cleaning Services

Cleaners and Janitorial Staff: Work to maintain cleanliness in offices, shops, and residential complexes.

 

Denmark offers diverse job opportunities across various industries. Immigrants are advised to prepare in advance, study labor market requirements, and improve language skills for successful integration into Danish society.

The Danish pension system is based on three main components:

 

State Pension

 Basic Pension: Provided to all residents of Denmark upon reaching retirement age, regardless of their previous income.

 Pension Supplement: An additional payment that depends on the pensioner's income and assets.

 

Occupational Pension

 Collective Agreements: Most workers participate in pension schemes agreed upon between employers and trade unions.

 Employer and Employee Contributions: Typically, both employer and employee contribute a certain percentage of the salary to the pension fund.

 

Private Pension Savings

 Personal Pension Plans: Voluntary savings through banks or insurance companies.

 Tax Incentives: Contributions may be tax-deductible, encouraging additional savings.

 

State Pension and Residency Requirements

 

Retirement Age: As of October 2023, the retirement age in Denmark is 67 years. There are plans to gradually increase the retirement age in line with life expectancy.

 

Residency Requirements: To receive a full state pension, one must have lived in Denmark for at least 40 years between the ages of 15 and 67. If you have lived less than 40 years, the pension will be proportionally reduced. The minimum required residency period is 3 years.

 

Features for Immigrants

 

Citizens of EU and European Economic Area countries have the right to transfer pension rights between member countries. Work and residency periods in other EU countries may be taken into account when calculating the pension.

 

Bilateral Agreements: Denmark has social agreements with certain countries, allowing for consideration of periods of residence and work abroad. It is recommended to check for such an agreement between Denmark and your country.

 

Occupational Pensions: Typically, immigrants working under contract are automatically included in occupational pension schemes. Upon leaving Denmark, it is often possible to retain or transfer accumulated pension funds according to the terms of a specific pension fund.

 

Taxation: Contributions to occupational and private pension funds may have tax benefits. Standard income taxation applies to pension payouts.

 

Private Pension Savings

Immigrants can independently choose pension products that align with their financial goals. There is a wide selection of investment strategies, including low-risk and high-yield options.

Consultations: It is recommended to consult a financial advisor for optimizing retirement planning.

 

Practical Tips for Immigrants

Consult with Experts: Reach out to social security specialists or financial advisors for personalized advice.

Keep Up with Changes: Pension laws can change, so it's important to stay informed with current information.

 

Useful Resources

Udbetaling Danmark: The official social protection payment authority. (https://www.borger.dk/)

ATP Livslang Pension: Mandatory pension fund for all workers. (https://www.atp.dk/)

The Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI): Information for immigrants about work and living in Denmark. (https://www.nyidanmark.dk/)

The main types of social insurance include:

 

Health Insurance

All residents of Denmark are entitled to free healthcare under the state health system. This includes general practitioner services, specialized medical care, and hospitalization. The system is funded by tax revenues, and no individual contributions for health insurance are required. 

 

Pension Provision

The Danish pension system consists of three levels:

- State pension;

- Occupational pension; 

- Private pension savings.

 

Unemployment Insurance

In Denmark, the unemployment insurance system is voluntary. Workers can join the so-called "A-kasser" (unemployment funds), which provide financial support in case of job loss. To receive benefits, one must meet certain conditions, including a minimum membership period and a specific number of working hours. 

 

Workplace Injury and Occupational Disease Insurance

Employers are obligated to ensure insurance for employees against workplace accidents and occupational diseases. This insurance covers medical expenses, rehabilitation, and compensation for loss of working capacity.

 

Social Assistance

For those who cannot support themselves and their families, social assistance is provided. It is offered by municipalities and includes financial support, job search assistance, and other social services. 

 

Family Benefits

Families with children are entitled to various types of support, including child benefits, parental leave, and other allowances aimed at supporting families with children.

 

Denmark's social insurance system is designed to ensure a high level of social protection for all residents, including immigrants. It is important to note that access to some benefits may depend on the length of residence in the country and fulfillment of certain conditions.

Denmark is known for its progressive labor standards, ensuring a balance between work and personal life. 

 

Termination

 

Notice of Termination

The notice periods for termination depend on the duration of employment and can be governed by both legislation and collective agreements. Typically, an employer must notify the employee in advance, with the period increasing with the length of service. The employee must also notify the employer of their resignation according to the terms of the employment contract.

 

Protection Against Unjust Dismissal

Denmark has protection against unjust dismissal. An employer cannot dismiss an employee based on gender, race, religion, political views, sexual orientation, age, disability, or national origin. Dismissal due to pregnancy or parental leave is also prohibited. 

 

Leave

 

Annual Paid Leave

According to the Holiday Act, employees earn 2.08 days of paid leave for each month worked, totaling 25 days (5 weeks) per year. The holiday year runs from September 1 to August 31, and the holiday usage period lasts from September 1 to December 31 of the following year, providing 16 months to use the accrued leave. 

 

Main Leave

Employees are entitled to an uninterrupted leave of 15 days (3 weeks) from May 1 to September 30. The remaining days of leave can be used by agreement with the employer.

 

Parental Leave

In Denmark, the following types of parental leave are provided:

Pre-birth leave: Pregnant women are entitled to leave 4 weeks before the expected delivery date.

Post-birth leave: The mother is entitled to 14 weeks of leave after childbirth.

Father's leave: The father is entitled to 2 weeks of leave within the first 14 weeks after the child is born.

Parental leave: After the post-birth leave, parents can share up to 32 weeks of parental leave between them.

 

During these leaves, parents may receive childcare benefits, which depend on their income and work experience.

 

Holidays

 

In Denmark, there are official public holidays during which employees are usually off work with pay. The main holidays include:

- New Year’s Day: January 1

- Good Friday: Date changes annually

- Easter Monday: Date changes annually

- Great Prayer Day: The fourth Friday after Easter

- Ascension Day: Date changes annually

- Constitution Day: June 5

- Christmas: December 25 and 26

 

It should be noted that some holidays may not be days off depending on the industry and terms of the employment contract.

 

Work on Holidays

If an employee is required to work on a holiday, it is usually compensated with additional pay or a day off. The conditions of such compensation are specified in the employment contract or collective agreement.

 

It is recommended to carefully study the terms of the employment contract and, if necessary, seek consultation from specialists or unions for the protection of your rights.

Main Professional Unions in Denmark

 

3F (Fagligt Fælles Forbund): The largest union in Denmark; covers a wide range of professions, including construction, transportation, hospitality, and agriculture; provides assistance in cases of employment rights violations and offers various educational programs. 

 

Dansk Metal: Represents the interests of workers in the metal and machinery industry; actively involved in training and upgrading the skills of its members; provides legal support. 

 

Akademikerne: A confederation of professional associations uniting 25 unions; represents the interests of employees with higher education, such as lawyers, engineers, doctors, and educators; actively involved in drafting labor legislation and collective agreements. 

 

HK Danmark: Represents workers in commerce, office work, and information technology; provides members with legal support, educational programs, and consultations on labor relations.

 

How Unions Can Assist Immigrants

 

Protection of labor rights: Unions assist members in cases of unfair dismissal, violation of working conditions, or discrimination.

Legal support: Providing consultations and representation in court on issues related to labor disputes.

Education and training: Organizing courses for skill improvement, Danish language education, and adaptation to the local work culture.

Information on rights and responsibilities: Unions inform immigrants about their rights and responsibilities in the workplace, helping to avoid violations and misunderstandings.

Network of contacts: An opportunity to establish professional connections and receive support from colleagues.

 

For immigrants, participating in a union can be a crucial step towards successful integration into Danish society and ensuring fair working conditions. It is recommended to contact the appropriate union in your industry for detailed information on membership and available services.

Denmark is known for its favorable business climate, innovative economy, and high level of digitalization. The country offers entrepreneurs a transparent legal framework, simple registration procedures, and extensive support from the government. For immigrants wishing to start their own business in Denmark, it is important to understand the features of the local system and requirements.

General Overview of the Business Environment in Denmark

Stable Economy: Denmark boasts one of the most stable economies in Europe with a high GDP per capita.

High Level of Innovation: Significant investments in research and development foster the growth of tech companies and startups.

Transparency and Lack of Corruption: Denmark consistently ranks high in transparency and low levels of corruption.

 

Business Legal Forms

Sole Proprietorship: The simplest form for individual entrepreneurs. Unlimited personal liability for business obligations. No minimum share capital requirement.

Private Limited Company: Popular form for small and medium-sized businesses. Liability is limited to the contribution to the share capital. The minimum share capital is 40,000 DKK.

Public Limited Company: Designed for large companies with the ability to raise investments through issuing shares. Liability is limited to the contribution to the share capital. The minimum share capital is 400,000 DKK.

Branch of a Foreign Company: Allows foreign companies to conduct business in Denmark without creating a separate legal entity. Registration with the Danish Business Authority is required.

 

Taxation and Accounting

- Corporate Tax: The standard rate is 22% of the profit.

- VAT: The standard rate is 25% on most goods and services.

- Income Tax: Progressive taxation scale for individuals.

- Accounting: Mandatory for all companies. Annual financial reports are submitted to the Tax Authority.

- Audit: Mandatory for large companies; small enterprises are exempt if certain criteria are met.

 

Labor Legislation

- Labor Relations: Governed by both legislation and collective agreements.

- Working Hours: The standard workweek is 37 hours.

- Vacation: Employees are entitled to a minimum of 5 weeks of paid vacation per year.

- Social Contributions: Employers do not pay social contributions for employees but must withhold taxes and deductions from wages.

 

Start-up Denmark Program: A Danish government initiative to attract foreign entrepreneurs with innovative ideas.

Benefits: Opportunity to obtain residence and work permits based on an approved business plan.

 

Entrepreneur Support

Business Incubators and Accelerators: Offer mentorship, funding, and networking opportunities.

Financing: Government and private funds provide loans and investments.

Consultation Services: Organizations such as the Danish Business Authority offer free consultations.

 

Business Digitalization

MitID: An electronic identification system for accessing public services and online banking.

Digital Post: Mandatory digital mail for communication with government institutions.

Electronic Reporting: All tax and accounting documents are submitted electronically.

 

Cultural Features of Doing Business

Straightforwardness and Openness: Danes value honesty and direct communication.

Equality: Flat organizational structure and respect for all employees regardless of position.

Work-Life Balance: The importance of maintaining a balance between work and personal life.

 

Recommendation: Consult local lawyers to understand all legal nuances.

 

Useful Resources

Virk: Portal for business registration and access to public services. [www.virk.dk](https://www.virk.dk/)

Start-up Denmark: Information on the program for foreign entrepreneurs. [www.startupdenmark.info](https://www.startupdenmark.info/)

Danish Business Authority: Regulatory body on business matters. [www.erhvervsstyrelsen.dk](https://www.erhvervsstyrelsen.dk/)

Danish Tax Authority (SKAT): Information on taxes and reporting. [www.skat.dk](https://www.skat.dk/)

Work in Denmark: Portal for international professionals. [www.workindenmark.dk](https://www.workindenmark.dk/)