Job Notice Periods in Denmark — Funktionærloven Explained

How Notice Periods Work in Denmark

Updated By exploringdenmark

Danish notice periods are structured and predictable — but different from many other countries. Under Funktionærloven, the length depends on how long you’ve been employed. Here’s the breakdown.

14 daysProbation 1 month0–6 mo 3 months6mo–3yr 4–5 mo3–9 yr 6 months9+ yr Employer notice under Funktionærloven → increases with seniority Your notice: always 1 month

Funktionærloven (Salaried Employees Act)

Most white-collar, office, and professional workers in Denmark are classified as funktionærer under the Salaried Employees Act. This law sets minimum notice periods that your employer must follow when terminating your employment. These are minimums — your contract or collective agreement may provide longer notice.

Notice periods by seniority

When your employer fires you:

  • During probation (first 3 months): 14 days’ notice (if a probation clause is in the contract)
  • Up to 6 months employed: 1 month
  • 6 months – 3 years: 3 months
  • 3 – 6 years: 4 months
  • 6 – 9 years: 5 months
  • 9+ years: 6 months

Notice is always given to the end of a month. So if you receive notice on 15 March with a 3-month notice period, your last day is 30 June.

When you resign

Your notice period when resigning is always 1 month to the end of a month, regardless of how long you’ve worked there. Resign on 10 April → your last day is 31 May. This is shorter than the employer’s notice period, which is intentional — it gives employees more flexibility.

During probation

If your contract includes a probation clause (prøvetid), the employer can terminate with only 14 days’ notice during the first 3 months. Without a written probation clause, the standard notice periods apply from day one. See the probation period guide.

Garden leave (fritstilling)

During the notice period, your employer may place you on garden leave (fritstilling) — you don’t come to work but continue to receive your salary. You’re free to start a new job while on garden leave, but your salary from the old employer may be reduced by what you earn at the new one (check your contract). Non-compete clauses may limit which companies you can join.

Questions and answers

What if I’m not a Funktionær?

Hourly, blue-collar, and manual workers follow their collective agreement or individual contract for notice periods. These can vary widely — from 1 week to several months.

Can my employer waive the notice period?

Yes — by mutual agreement. The employer may offer to pay out the notice period as a lump sum. This is common in redundancy situations.

What about severance pay?

Under Funktionærloven, you’re entitled to 1 month’s extra salary after 12 years, and 3 months’ extra after 17 years. These are separate from the notice period payment.

Sources

  1. borger.dk — Funktionærloven notice periods.