Find out how to apply for a Denmark Work Visa in 2024. Learn about visa requirements, types of work permits, and job opportunities in Denmark.
Are you looking to work in Denmark? Here’s your guide to the Denmark Work Visa 2024, including application steps, visa types, and salary info.
Denmark Work Visa: Essential Guide to Visa Requirements & Job Opportunities
Denmark is not just one of the happiest countries in the world but also a land of opportunities for foreign workers. With a population of around 5.857 million, the country actively seeks to attract skilled labor from abroad.
The Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI) offers numerous visa schemes to help certified companies hire foreign labour efficiently under the Fast-track Scheme. In this article, we’ll explore the types of Danish work permits, job sites, and the entire visa process.
Why Denmark Needs Foreign Workers
Like many European countries, Denmark faces a shortage of skilled workers across various sectors. The Danish government is actively encouraging businesses to recruit foreign workers to fill these gaps. Denmark’s “Positive List,” updated twice a year, highlights occupations experiencing a critical shortage of skilled labor.
For both skilled and highly qualified candidates, this presents a fantastic opportunity to work in Denmark.
Who Can Work in Denmark Without a Visa?
If you are a citizen of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland, you do not need a visa to work in Denmark. However, if you come from a non-EU country, you will need a work and residence permit to legally work in Denmark.
Denmark Work Visa Application Process
1. Choose a Denmark Work Visa Scheme
The first step is to select the work visa scheme that best fits your situation. Denmark offers several options, and choosing the correct one is vital to avoid delays.
2. Create a Case Order ID
You must create a Case Order ID online, a step similar to opening an account with your personal details. This will track your application process through SIRI.
3. Pay the Denmark Work Visa Fee
The visa fee varies based on the specific scheme you apply for and your nationality.
4. Compile the Denmark Work Visa Document Checklist
Make sure you have all the necessary documents, including your passport, job contract, proof of financial means, educational qualifications, health insurance, and a criminal background check.
5. Apply Online for the Work Permit
Once you’ve gathered all the required documents, fill out the application form online. Often, your employer can assist you with this step.
6. Take Your Biometrics
After submitting your application, you must provide biometrics within 14 days. You can do this either at a Danish diplomatic mission abroad or at SIRI’s Citizen Centre in Denmark.
7. Wait for a Response
Once everything is submitted, your application will be processed. If approved, you’re ready to travel to Denmark.
Types of Denmark Work Permits
1. Positive List for Skilled Workers
The “Positive List” outlines occupations in Denmark that are experiencing a shortage of professionals. Jobs in this category include opportunities in engineering, healthcare, and IT. If you are offered a job on this list, you can apply for a work permit under this scheme.
2. Pay Limit Scheme
This scheme is for individuals who earn a minimum salary of DKK 448,000 (€60,180) per year. It is designed for high-income professionals.
3. Supplementary Pay Limit Scheme
If you’ve been offered a job with an annual salary of at least DKK 393,000, you can apply through this scheme.
4. Fast-Track Scheme
Under this scheme, certified Danish companies can quickly and flexibly hire foreign employees. The Fast-track scheme simplifies the recruitment process, allowing foreign workers to begin work sooner.
5. Special Individual Qualifications
This visa applies to performers, athletes, specialized chefs, and other individuals with unique skills.
6. Trainee Scheme
This is for people who have been offered short-term employment in Denmark as a trainee, usually in industries like agriculture or manufacturing.
7. Herdsmen and Farm Managers
This scheme caters specifically to herdsmen or farm managers in the agricultural sector.
8. Labour Market Attachment
If you had a Danish residence permit but lost it, for example, due to family reunification or refugee status, you may reapply for a work permit under this scheme.
9. Sideline Employment
This visa is for those who want to take on additional work in Denmark while already holding a residence permit for their primary job.
10. Employment for Adaptation and Training
Doctors and dentists who have received Danish authorization can apply for a work permit for adaptation and training purposes.
11. Work Permit for Accompanying Family Members
Family members of people working in Denmark can apply for a residence and work permit as well.
Cost of a Denmark Work Visa
- Fast Track Scheme: DKK 6,290
- Pay Limit Scheme: DKK 6,290
- Supplementary Pay Limit Scheme: DKK 6,290
- Positive Lists: DKK 6,290
- Special Individual Qualifications: DKK 6,290
- Herdsmen and Farm Managers: DKK 6,290
- Trainee: DKK 6,290
- Labour Market Attachment: DKK 6,290
- Sideline Employment: No Fee
Skill Shortage List: Occupations in High Demand
Certain sectors in Denmark are in dire need of skilled professionals. If you have experience in one of these industries, securing a job in Denmark becomes more straightforward.
Below are some sectors facing labour shortages:
- Engineering
- ICT & Robotics
- Life Science
- Medical and Healthcare Services
- Business and Finance
- Service and Hospitality
- Industrial Manufacturing
- Transport and Logistics
- Construction
- Offshore
Websites to Find Jobs in Denmark
- Workindenmark.dk
This is a government-backed site that helps foreign job seekers find employment in Denmark. It caters to both those already living in Denmark and applicants from abroad. - Denmark.dk
Denmark’s official website provides a wide range of resources, including guidance on working and living in the country.
Danish Certified Companies
Applying to certified Danish companies increases your chances of securing a work permit through the Fast-track scheme.
The Danish Agency approves these companies for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI). You can view the list of certified companies here.
FAQs About Denmark Work Visa.
1. What is the Positive List for Denmark Work Visa?
The Positive List includes occupations experiencing a shortage of skilled professionals in Denmark. Foreign workers with job offers in these sectors can apply for a work visa.
2. Can I Work in Denmark Without a Visa?
Citizens of EU/EEA countries and Switzerland do not require a visa to work in Denmark, but all other nationalities need a work and residence permit.
3. How Long Does it Take to Process a Denmark Work Visa?
The processing time for a Denmark work visa usually takes between 1 to 3 months, depending on the scheme.
4. What Is the Fast-Track Scheme?
This scheme allows certified Danish companies to hire foreign workers faster and with more flexibility.
5. What Are the Costs Associated with Denmark Work Visa?
The cost of a Denmark work visa is generally DKK 6,290, though sideline employment visas are free.
6. Do Family Members Need a Separate Work Visa?
Family members can apply for a work permit along with the primary visa holder.