Work Changes & Leave in Denmark: Education, Resignation & Notice (2025) | exploringdenmark
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Work Changes & Leave in Denmark: Education, Resignation & Notice (2025)

Thinking about study leave, switching jobs, or handling a layoff? Here’s how educational leave works, how to resign properly, your notice period, and where to get help—fast.

Good to know: Contracts and collective agreements set many of your rights. Your union (fagforening) and A-kasse can negotiate, review letters, and protect you.

Overview

🎓 Study leave (uddannelsesorlov)

Typically unpaid unless your contract/union says otherwise. Always request in writing and keep approvals.

🔀 Changing or losing a job

You’re entitled to written notice. Join/notify A-kasse quickly to secure dagpenge if unemployed.

✉️ Resigning correctly

State intent to resign and last day (per your notice). Ask for written confirmation and a reference.

⏳ Notice periods

Employees usually: 1 month to resign. Employer notice ranges 1–6 months by seniority (funktionær).

How educational leave works

🎓

What it is

Time off to study or upskill. Policies vary—check your contract and any collective agreement.

📝

How to request

Email HR/manager with course, dates, and funding. Keep a signed approval.

💶

Pay & security

May be unpaid; some employers fund training. Confirm job protection and return date in writing.

Changing or losing your job

🔁

Switching roles

Give proper notice, hand over work, and transfer benefits like pension and vacation.

📉

If laid off

Demand written notice and reasons if unclear. Contact your union before signing anything.

🛟

Unemployment

A-kasse members can claim dagpenge. Register immediately and follow their guidance.

How to write a resignation letter

✉️
Keep it short: State intent to resign and your last working day (per your notice period).
📆
Confirm timing: Quote the relevant clause from your contract/collective agreement.
✅
Ask for confirmation: Request written acknowledgement and final paperwork (reference, exit certificate).
💬
Stay positive: Thank the team and offer handover support.
Template: “Dear [Manager], I hereby resign from my position. My last working day will be [date], in accordance with my notice period. Thank you for the opportunity. Kind regards, [Your Name]”.

Job notice periods in Denmark

👔

Salaried (funktionær)

Your notice to resign is typically 1 month. Employer notice increases 1–6 months with seniority.

🧑‍🎓

Hourly/student roles

May be shorter (e.g., 14 days) or specified by contract. Always check the written terms.

🤝

Union agreements

Collective deals can improve terms. Ask HR or your union rep to confirm your exact notice.

Useful resources (official & internal)

Frequently Asked Questions

🎓 Fired while on study leave?

Not for taking leave alone, but normal redundancy rules still apply. Ask your union immediately.

📄 Is email OK for resigning?

Yes—request written confirmation back and save it.

📆 Can notice be shortened?

Only if you and your employer both agree in writing.

🧾 Exit certificate?

Ask HR for a “fratrædelsesattest” and a reference upon leaving.

🏖️ Unused vacation?

Accrued, unused vacation must be paid out when you leave.

🛟 Lost job—first step?

Register with your A-kasse immediately to secure dagpenge eligibility.