Denmark is getting ready to launch new rules that will make it simpler for skilled professionals from 16 countries outside the EU to live and work in Denmark. The Danish government wants to help local businesses fill job gaps and attract international talent by lowering the income requirements needed to qualify for a work permit.
The plan, which was reported by Danish media, is expected to be officially presented soon.
Main Updates to Denmark Work Permit Rules
Here are the most important changes coming to Denmark’s immigration policy for workers:
1. Lower Minimum Salary Under the Pay Limit Scheme
Denmark uses the Pay Limit Scheme to issue work permits to non-EU nationals. Until now, you needed a job offer with a yearly salary of at least DKK 514,000 (about €69,000) to qualify.
With the new rules, this amount will drop to DKK 300,000 per year (around €40,000). This lower salary makes it easier for companies to hire qualified professionals in sectors that may not pay the highest wages but still need skilled staff.
You can read more about the Pay Limit Scheme here:
Official Danish Immigration Service – Pay Limit Scheme
2. Which Countries Will Benefit?
These new, easier conditions apply to citizens of the following 16 non-EU countries:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Australia
- Canada
- China
- Japan
- India
- Brazil
- Singapore
- Malaysia
- Montenegro
- Serbia
- North Macedonia
- Albania
- Ukraine
- Moldova
If you come from an EU or EEA country, you already have the right to work in Denmark without a permit.
For details on general work rights for EU nationals:
Work in Denmark – EU/EEA Citizens
3. Changes to the Supplementary Pay Limit Scheme
Denmark also has a Supplementary Pay Limit Scheme designed for industries that need extra workers. Today, this program requires a minimum salary of DKK 415,000 per year. Under the new plan, the threshold will also be lowered to DKK 300,000, matching the main scheme and opening more job opportunities.
4. Protections for Workers and Rules for Employers
To avoid exploitation or unfair treatment of foreign employees, Danish companies must sign a collective agreement with a local trade union if they use these schemes. This agreement helps guarantee fair working conditions and salaries.
Foreign workers will also need to carry identification while at work in Denmark. This rule is meant to improve transparency and ensure everyone has the proper permission to be employed.
Learn more about worker protections here:
Danish Working Environment Authority
How the Application Process Works
If you’d like to apply for a work permit under the new conditions, you must first get a job offer from a Danish employer. The offer has to meet the new lower salary requirement. Once your permit is approved and you arrive in Denmark, you’ll need to keep your ID with you at work.
You can check detailed application steps on the official portal:
New to Denmark – Work Permits
What Does This Mean for Skilled Workers?
The Danish government believes this update could bring at least 550 more foreign workers into the country. While this is a modest increase compared to the more than 400,000 foreigners already working in Denmark, many business groups expect the actual numbers to be higher over time.
Employers see the policy change as a positive move to address worker shortages and make Denmark more attractive in the global job market.
Final Thoughts about Denmark Work Permit
If you have experience in your field and are from one of the 16 eligible countries, this is a great moment to consider Denmark for your next career move. With a lower income requirement and clearer rules for employers, working in Denmark has become more accessible.
For the latest updates, always refer to the Danish Immigration Service:
Official Danish Immigration Service
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