The Danish Welfare & Benefit System
Denmark’s social system offers some of the world’s strongest protections—from healthcare and pensions to parental leave and unemployment. Here’s what internationals need to know.
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Did you know? The Danish welfare model is built on high taxes, but in return you get world-class health care, free education, income security, and support if you lose your job.
Overview: Social Welfare in Denmark
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Universal Healthcare
Medical care is free for residents—funded by taxes and managed by the state.
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Free Education
School and university tuition are free for residents, including many internationals.
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Income Security
Sick pay, unemployment, pensions, and more—ensuring a safety net for all.
What is Covered?
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Family & Child Benefits
Child allowances, affordable childcare, paid parental leave, and more.
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Pension & Old Age
State pension and supplements for those who have worked or lived in Denmark.
Who’s Eligible?
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Legal Residence
You must have a valid residence permit and CPR number to access most benefits.
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Work/Stay Period
Some benefits require a minimum stay or work period in Denmark (e.g. 2 years for unemployment).
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Contributions
Some benefits (e.g. unemployment) depend on membership in an A-kasse and paying into the system.
Main Benefits at a Glance
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Healthcare
Free doctor visits, hospitals, specialists (referral needed), and mental health care.
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Education Support
“SU” grants for students, free tuition, support for trainees and apprentices. More on SU
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Sick Pay & Disability
Wage compensation if you’re ill, and support if you can’t work due to health/disability.
Unemployment Insurance & A-kasse
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A-kasse System
To get “dagpenge” (unemployment benefits), you must join an A-kasse and pay monthly fees.
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Eligibility Periods
Usually requires 1 year’s membership and at least 1,924 working hours in 3 years.
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Social Assistance (“kontanthjælp”)
Basic support for those not eligible for A-kasse, but strict residency rules apply. Learn more
Family, Child, and Parental Benefits
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Child Allowance (“børnepenge”)
Automatic for residents with children, paid quarterly until age 18. Details here
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Parental Leave
Generous paid leave for new parents (mothers, fathers, and partners). Shared between parents.
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Affordable Childcare
Subsidized daycare, nurseries, and after-school care for all children.
Useful Resources & External Links
Related on exploringdenmark
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can newcomers access Danish benefits?
Yes, if you have a residence permit, CPR number, and often after a “waiting period” or minimum stay—check each benefit!
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How do I apply for child allowance?
Child benefits are usually automatic with CPR, but you can apply or check at Borger.dk.
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What’s an A-kasse?
An A-kasse is a voluntary unemployment fund. Membership gives you rights to “dagpenge” if you lose your job.
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Do internationals get a pension?
State pensions require years of residency or contributions—short stays may only qualify for partial payments.
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Where to get help in English?
Visit lifeindenmark.borger.dk or ask at your local kommune’s citizen service center.