Work Permits & Employment in Denmark
Denmark welcomes skilled internationals, but you must have a valid work permit before starting a job. Here’s how to navigate the main visa types, find a job, and understand your rights as a foreign employee.
Overview: Working in Denmark
🛂 Work permit needed
Non‑EU/EEA citizens need a permit before working. EU/EEA citizens can register after arrival.
📄 Job offer first
Most schemes require a signed Danish job contract before you apply for a permit.
🌍 Workplace culture
Flat hierarchies, teamwork and strong work‑life balance are hallmarks of Danish jobs.
Types of work permits
💶 Pay Limit Scheme
For jobs paying above a yearly threshold (e.g., ~DKK 478,000 in 2025). Often the fastest route for skilled roles. Pay Limit guide
🔬 Positive List
For occupations in shortage (engineers, IT, healthcare, science, etc.). See current list
🎓 Graduate & PhD
Stay and work after Danish studies—options for graduates and researchers. Read more
Job market & sectors
💻 IT & Tech
A strong startup scene and mature tech sector keep demand high for developers and IT specialists.
🧪 Engineering & Science
Engineers and scientists are needed nationwide—from green energy to biotech.
👩⚕️ Healthcare
Doctors, nurses and allied health professionals can find roles across regions.
Work rights & rules
🤝 Contracts
Get a written contract outlining pay, hours, holidays and terms—this is required by law.
⏰ Hours & leave
A 37‑hour work week is typical. Minimum five weeks paid holiday. Public holidays
🛡️ Your rights
Protection against discrimination, fair pay via collective agreements, and union support. Learn more
Useful resources
🌐 SIRI (official)
💼 Work in Denmark
📝 Labour rights
Related on exploringdenmark
💶 Pay Limit Scheme
🧑💻 Finding a job
📑 Typical salaries
⚖️ Contracts & rights
Frequently asked questions
🛂 Job before applying?
Yes—most permit schemes require a job offer or contract before you apply.
⏱️ Processing time?
Typical processing is ~1–2 months for complete applications (varies by scheme).
💶 Minimum salary?
For the Pay Limit Scheme, the threshold is set annually (e.g., ~DKK 478,000 in 2025). Positive List varies by role.
👨👩👧👦 Bring family?
Most permits allow spouse/partner and children to join. See Bringing family.
🔁 Switching jobs?
Changing employer/role usually requires a new permit. Always update SIRI first.
📄 Self‑employment?
There are special routes for startups/freelancers. See Start‑up Denmark.
Need help picking the right permit?
Tell us your role, salary, start date and family situation—we’ll outline the best scheme and steps to apply.