Denmark Work Visa & Work Permit: The Ultimate Guide for Foreigners

Denmark stands among the most prosperous and innovative nations in Europe, attracting foreign professionals with its strong economy, transparent labour laws, and excellent quality of life. For skilled and unskilled workers alike, Denmark offers genuine opportunities to build a career in one of the world's safest and best-organised countries.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Denmark Work Visa and Work Permit process, covering eligibility, visa types, required documents, step-by-step procedures, fees, and key benefits for foreigners seeking to work legally in Denmark.

Why Work in Denmark

1. A Strong, Innovative Economy

Denmark is home to a thriving economy powered by industries such as engineering, information technology, renewable energy, construction, logistics, healthcare, and agriculture. Its consistent growth and low unemployment rate make it an ideal destination for job seekers from around the globe.

2. High Demand for Foreign Professionals

Due to skill shortages and an ageing population, Danish employers actively recruit international workers from India, Nepal, Bangladesh, the Philippines, Vietnam, and African countries to fill critical roles in logistics, hospitality, and healthcare sectors.

3. Legal Pathway to Live and Work in Europe

A Danish Work Visa provides a legal way for non-EU nationals to live and work in Denmark. Once you receive your residence card, you gain access to the Schengen Area, allowing short business or tourist travel across multiple EU countries.

4. Excellent Quality of Life

Denmark consistently ranks among the world’s happiest and safest countries. Workers enjoy a healthy work-life balance, affordable healthcare, and excellent education and welfare systems.

5. Pathway to Permanent Residency

After several years of legal residence, foreign workers can apply for Permanent Residence (PR) and later become eligible for Danish citizenship, gaining long-term security and benefits for their families.

6. Efficient Immigration Process

Denmark’s immigration system is fully digitalised and transparent, making the visa and work permit process straightforward and efficient.

Understanding the Denmark Work Permit

A Danish work permit authorises a non-EU citizen to work legally for a specific employer in Denmark. It specifies your job title, employer name, work location, and contract duration. Without a valid permit, you cannot apply for a visa or start employment.

Issuing Authority

Work permits are issued by the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI), which falls under the Ministry of Immigration and Integration.

Validity

Most Danish work permits are valid for one to two years, depending on the employment contract and permit category. They can be renewed if employment continues.

Types of Work Permits in Denmark

Permit Type	Purpose	Validity	Ideal For
Pay Limit Scheme	For professionals earning above a specific annual salary threshold	2 years (renewable)	High-income professionals
Positive List Scheme	For jobs facing a shortage of qualified professionals	1–2 years	Skilled workers and specialists
Fast-Track Scheme	For foreign employees hired by certified Danish companies	2 years	Managers and experts
Researcher Permit	For foreign researchers employed at approved Danish institutions	Contract-based	Academics and scientists
Seasonal Work Permit	For short-term employment in agriculture, hospitality, or tourism	6–9 months	Seasonal workers
Internship Permit	For students or trainees, gaining professional experience	Up to 18 months	Interns and trainees

Denmark Work Visa (Type D Long-Stay Visa)

The Type D Work Visa allows non-EU nationals to live and work in Denmark for more than 90 days. It is directly linked to your approved work permit.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for a Danish Work Visa, you must:

• Have a valid job offer or signed contract from a registered Danish employer.
• Possess an approved work permit under one of SIRI’s schemes.
• Hold a passport valid for at least 12 months.
• Provide proof of accommodation in Denmark.
• Have comprehensive health insurance.
• Present a clean criminal record certificate.
• Demonstrate sufficient financial means for initial expenses.

Visa Validity

The work visa is generally issued for 1 to 2 years, with the possibility of extension based on the duration of employment or the need to renew the residence permit.

Documents Required

From the Employer

• Completed work permit application submitted via SIRI.
• Proof of company registration (CVR number).
• Signed employment contract or job offer.
• Proof of salary compliance (as per Danish law).
• Tax registration documents.
• Government fee receipt for application.

From the Employee

• Valid passport (minimum 12-month validity).
• Two passport-size photographs.
• Approved work permit/case order ID.
• Health insurance certificate.
• Proof of accommodation in Denmark.
• Bank statement or financial proof.
• Police clearance certificate.
• Completed visa application form with payment confirmation.

Step-by-Step Process for Denmark Work Visa

1. Receive a Job Offer
   You can secure employment from a Danish company authorised to hire foreign workers.
2. Employer Initiates Application
   The employer applies online through SIRI’s portal using your details to generate a Case Order ID.
3. Pay Government Fee and Submit Documents
   The application fee must be paid before submission. Both the employer and the employee provide the required documentation.
4. Biometric Enrollment and Interview
   Visit the Danish Embassy or the VFS Global centre in your country to submit your biometric data.
5. Work Permit and Visa Decision
   Once approved by SIRI, you receive your work and residence permit.
6. Travel to Denmark
   After you approve it, could you please travel to Denmark and start work in accordance with your contract terms?
7. Collect Residence Card
   When you arrive, you can visit the local International Citizen Service (ICS) office to collect your Residence Card.

Processing Time

Stage	Estimated Duration
Work Permit (SIRI)	30–60 working days
Embassy Visa Processing	15–30 working days
Residence Card (Post Arrival)	1–3 months
Total Estimated Duration	45–90 working days

Fees and Costs

Service	Average Fee (€)	Paid By
Work Permit Application	600–650	Employer
Type D Visa	80–100	Employee
Embassy / VFS Service Fee	20	Employee
Residence Card	200	Employee

Additional costs include health insurance, translation, and document legalisation.

Top Industries Hiring Foreign Workers in Denmark

Industry	Common Roles	Average Monthly Salary (€)	Permit Type
Construction	Electricians, Welders, Plumbers	2,800–3,800	Positive List
Manufacturing	Machine Operators, Technicians	2,500–3,500	Positive List
IT & Engineering	Developers, System Analysts	3,500–6,000	Blue Card / Pay Limit
Healthcare	Nurses, Caregivers	3,000–4,800	Positive List
Agriculture	Farm Workers, Packers	1,800–2,500	Seasonal
Logistics	Truck Drivers, Forklift Operators	2,500–3,600	Fast-Track
Hospitality	Chefs, Housekeepers, Waiters	2,000–3,000	Seasonal
Research & Education	Researchers, Lecturers	3,000–5,000	Researcher Permit

Benefits of Working in Denmark

• 100% legal employment under EU labour law
• Access to public healthcare and pension benefits
• Transparent and fair employment contracts
• Pathway to Permanent Residence and Citizenship
• Opportunity for family reunification
• Safe, clean, and environmentally conscious society
• Free travel within the Schengen Zone
• Excellent work-life balance and employee rights

Official Government Resources

• Danish Agency for International Recruitment (SIRI): https://www.siri.dk
• Ministry of Immigration and Integration: https://uim.dk
• Work in Denmark Portal: https://workindenmark.dk
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs: https://um.dk

Denmark Immigration & Work Permit Services | Moving2Europe.eu

Denmark is one of Europe’s most desirable destinations for international professionals thanks to its world-class work culture, high-income economy, modern infrastructure and exceptional quality of life. However, Danish immigration rules—salary thresholds, job approval lists, employer sponsorship, and strict documentation standards—can be challenging to manage without proper guidance.

Moving2Europe.eu provides clear, structured and legally compliant Denmark immigration solutions for individuals, families and employers seeking a smooth entry into the Danish labour market.

Comprehensive Denmark Work Permit & Residence Solutions

We support all primary Danish visa and residence categories, including:

• Denmark Work Permit (Employer-Sponsored)
• Fast-Track Scheme
• Positive List (Skilled Shortage Occupations)
• Pay Limit Scheme
• EU Blue Card Denmark
• Seasonal & short-term work arrangements
• Long-Stay Visa (Type D)
• Student, trainee & internship permits
• Business, startup & entrepreneur residence options

Our services cover both single applicants and companies hiring foreign workers.

Denmark Immigration Services for Individuals

1. Work Permit & Residence Application Handling

Complete support for:

• Danish Work Permit (under various schemes)
• EU Blue Card for highly qualified workers
• Positive List occupations (high-demand roles)
• Fast-Track employer-assisted processing
• Pathways for long-term residency and extensions

2. Document Preparation & Embassy File Management

We assist with:

• Detailed document checklists
• Compliance-focused document review
• Apostilles, legalisation & sworn translations
• Visa file preparation
• VFS/Embassy appointment scheduling
• Interview readiness guidance

3. Arrival & Compliance in Denmark

Post-arrival guidance includes:

• Entry & border requirements
• CPR number registration
• Biometrics & residence card
• Municipality registration
• Health insurance setup
• Employer reporting & compliance rules

Denmark Family & Dependent Visa Services

We support families relocating to Denmark with:

• Spouse residence permits
• Dependent child permits
• Family reunification procedures
• Long-term family residence rights
• School enrolment assistance and relocation guidance

We ensure your family moves to Denmark easily and legally.

Denmark Immigration Solutions for Employers & Recruiters

Denmark experiences labour shortages across several high-demand industries:

• Engineering & construction
• IT & software development
• Healthcare & nursing
• Hospitality & tourism
• Logistics, transport & warehousing
• Agriculture & food production
• Manufacturing & industrial sectors

We help employers with:

• Guidance on selecting the appropriate work permit scheme
• Positive List and Fast-Track eligibility checks
• Full preparation of employee work permit files
• Employer sponsorship compliance
• Large-scale recruitment mobility programs
• Coordination with HR, compliance and legal teams

We ensure international hires receive correct and timely Danish permits.

Executive Mobility Services for Denmark

Tailored solutions for top executives include:

• Priority case management
• Discreet and confidential processing
• Strategic mobility planning
• Rapid document and file preparation
• Direct collaboration with HR/legal departments

Digital Denmark Immigration Tracking System

Our digital platform offers:

• 24/7 tracking of application progress
• Secure document uploads
• Milestone-based workflow updates
• Compliance reminders and renewal alerts
• Immigration guidelines and resources

Perfect for individuals, multinational companies and HR teams.

Why Use Moving2Europe.eu for Denmark Immigration?

• Extensive knowledge of Danish work permit pathways
• Accurate and compliant visa preparation
• Dedicated case management for every client
• Full support for workers, families and employers
• Clear guidance at every paperwork stage
• Global network across 170+ countries
• Deep expertise in Danish & EU immigration systems
• Technology-driven, organised and transparent case handling

We make Denmark’s complex immigration process predictable, efficient and legally secure.

Start Your Denmark Work Permit Process Today

Whether you're applying for a job, relocating your family or hiring international talent, Moving2Europe.eu delivers a professional, reliable and fully compliant Denmark immigration service from start to finish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the main types of Denmark work permits?

Denmark offers the Positive List Visa, Pay Limit Scheme, Fast-Track Scheme, Seasonal Work Permits, and EU Blue Card. Each category fits different skill levels and employer needs.

2. What is the Positive List for Skilled Workers?

It is a list of professions experiencing labour shortages in Denmark. Applicants with job offers in these roles receive faster work permit approval.

3. What documents are required for a Denmark work permit?

You need a passport, a signed job offer, salary details, employer registration, educational certificates, and proof of financial ability. Some documents need translation into English or Danish.

4. How long does it take to process a Danish work permit?

Most permits are processed in 4–8 weeks. Fast-Track Scheme applications can be approved in as little as 1–2 weeks.

5. Do I need a job offer to get a Denmark work visa?

Yes, almost all Danish work permits require a firm job offer. Salary and contract conditions must meet Danish rules.

6. What is the Pay Limit Scheme?

A permit category for workers offered a high annual salary (above Denmark’s set threshold). It allows faster processing with no labour market test.

7. Can I apply for a Denmark work permit from abroad?

Yes, applications can be submitted from your home country. Your employer submits part of the application online through SIRI.

8. Can Danish employers sponsor foreign workers?

Yes, employers sponsor workers through the Pay Limit, Positive List, or Fast-Track schemes. They must meet strict salary and compliance standards.

9. What is the minimum salary for Denmark work permits?

Salary requirements vary by permit type. The Pay Limit Scheme requires a high annual salary, while Positive List roles follow industry standards.

10. Can students work in Denmark?

Yes, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester. Full-time work is permitted in the summer months.

11. What are the shortage occupations in Denmark?

Healthcare, IT, engineering, construction, green energy, hospitality, and logistics. These occupations appear on the Positive List.

12. Can I bring my family to Denmark on a work permit?

Yes, spouses and children can join you under family reunification. They receive residence permits linked to their employment.

13. Do dependents have work rights in Denmark?

Yes, adult dependents generally receive unrestricted access to the Danish labour market under family permits.

14. What is the Denmark EU Blue Card?

A permit for highly qualified workers with recognised education and a high salary offer. It provides strong mobility rights within the EU.

15. Can I change employers after receiving my Danish permit?

Yes, but you must apply for a new permit reflecting the new employer. You'll need to get approval before starting the new job.

16. Do I need Danish language skills to work in Denmark?

Not necessarily. Many companies hire English speakers, especially in IT, research, engineering, and hospitality. Danish helps with daily life.

17. Is health insurance mandatory in Denmark?

Yes, but once you register in Denmark, you receive public health coverage (yellow health card). Before arrival, private insurance is required.

18. What is the Seasonal Work Permit in Denmark?

A temporary permit for agriculture, farming, and food processing jobs. It is valid for short-term, unskilled or semi-skilled roles.

19. Can seasonal workers switch to long-term residence?

Seasonal permits do not lead to permanent residence. Workers must secure a new full-time skilled job.

20. How do I register my address in Denmark?

After arrival, you must register your address with the local municipality (kommune). This registration activates your CPR number and health coverage.

21. Can I apply for permanent residence in Denmark?

Yes, typically after 8 years of legal stay (sometimes 4–6 years for highly integrated workers). Stable income and clean records are required.

22. Does Denmark hire non-EU workers?

Yes, Denmark actively recruits foreign workers due to labour shortages in key sectors like healthcare and engineering.

23. What are Denmark’s most in-demand jobs?

Nurses, engineers, IT developers, chefs, warehouse staff, electricians, social workers, and agricultural workers.

24. Is it challenging to get a job in Denmark?

Skilled workers find opportunities relatively easily. Unskilled jobs exist, but they usually require an employer's readiness to sponsor.

25. How long is the Danish long-stay visa valid?

Long-stay visas (Type D) typically cover entry until your residence card is issued. Validity is usually 90 days.

26. Can I renew my Denmark work permit?

Yes, renewals are possible if your employment continues. Apply early to avoid losing legal status.

27. What is a Danish Residence Card?

It is a biometric card confirming your right to work and live in Denmark. It must be shown when accessing services or travelling.

28. Do I need biometrics for a Denmark visa?

Yes, fingerprints and photographs are collected at VFS or the embassy. They are required for your residence card as well.

29. Can my employer apply for my permit?

Yes, employers submit their part of the application through SIRI’s online system. You complete the process at the embassy or online.

30. Is Denmark part of the Schengen Area?

Yes, Denmark is a Schengen country. Residents can travel freely within the Schengen region for short stays.

31. Can I travel in Europe with a Danish residence permit?

Yes, you may travel to other Schengen countries for up to 90 days in 180 days. Your residence permit must be valid.

32. What if my Denmark work permit is rejected?

You can appeal or apply again with improved documentation. Many refusals happen due to salary or contract issues.

33. Does Denmark offer visas for truck drivers?

Yes, logistics companies hire foreign drivers when labour shortages occur. Employers must meet Danish pay and training standards.

34. Is Denmark a good choice for skilled migrants?

Yes, Denmark offers high salaries, strong worker protections, and an excellent quality of life for qualified workers.

35. Do my documents need Danish translations?

Some documents must be translated into English or Danish, depending on the employer and immigration category. Legalisation may also be required.

36. Can unskilled workers find jobs in Denmark?

Yes, sectors such as agriculture, cleaning, hospitality, and food production hire unqualified staff. Most roles still require employer sponsorship.

37. What is the work permit processing time in Denmark?

Regular applications take 4–8 weeks. Fast-Track applications may be completed in 1–2 weeks if all documents are in order.

38. Are healthcare professionals in demand in Denmark?

Yes, nurses, doctors, caregivers, and therapists are highly sought after. Credential recognition may be required.

39. Do employers provide accommodation in Denmark?

Some employers offer housing support, especially in agriculture and remote regions. Most skilled workers arrange housing independently.

40. What is the labour market check in Denmark?

Specific visa categories require verifying that no local workers are available. However, many schemes, such as Pay Limit, do not need this check.

41. Can I start working while my permit is being processed?

No, you must wait until the permit is approved. Working before approval can result in fines or permit refusal.

42. Is there an age limit for Denmark work permits?

No formal age limit exists, but employers prefer workers who meet job and health requirements.

43. Can I convert a tourist visa to a work visa?

No, Denmark does not allow in-country conversion. You must apply from outside Denmark.

44. Does Denmark offer entry-level or unskilled jobs?

Yes, in agriculture, food processing, cleaning, and seasonal fields. Employer sponsorship is required for these roles.

45. Are biometrics required again after arrival?

Yes, you must appear at a SIRI office in Denmark to submit biometrics for your residence card.

46. Does Denmark have a remote work or digital nomad visa?

Not at this time, but freelancers can explore business residence permits depending on project type and financial stability.

47. What are Denmark’s highest-paying sectors?

IT, engineering, renewable energy, healthcare, biotech, and finance offer some of the highest salary packages.

48. Does Moving2Europe.eu provide Denmark visa support?

Yes, we help with job placement, employer sponsorship, documentation, embassy filing, and residence card procedures.

49. Can working in Denmark lead to permanent residence?

Yes, long-term employment and legal stay can lead to permanent residence after several years. Integration requirements apply.

50. How can I begin my Denmark work visa application?

Could you share your CV with Moving2Europe.eu, select your job category, and our experts will guide you through employer selection and full permit processing?

Professional Assistance with M2S Group Sp. z o.o.

M2S Group Sp. z o.o. Provides comprehensive guidance for obtaining Denmark Work Visas, Work Permits, and Residence Cards.

Our professional consultants assist with employer coordination, document preparation, and embassy submission — ensuring a legal, transparent, and stress-free process.

If you need verified support and genuine opportunities, you can contact M2S Group Sp. z o.o. Today, begin your successful journey toward legal employment in Denmark.