You have made a great choice if you have decided to work in Denmark. As a foreign worker with the necessary work permit Denmark to work here, you enjoy the same perks that locals and citizens do regarding work.
These benefits and advantages include a healthy work-life balance, a progressive work culture, a strong economy, and a high standard of living.
With Denmark’s thriving economy and inclusive approach to global talent, the country seeks skilled individuals across various sectors, especially in technology.
But, to make the leap, you will need a Danish work permit. This article will cover everything you need to know about how to successfully apply for a work visa in Denmark – from eligibility and visa types to the step-by-step application process.
Who Needs a Visa to Work in Denmark?
After you have secured a job from a Danish employer, the next step is to apply for a work permit Denmark. But before you start the application process, it’s essential to know whether you need a work visa for Denmark.
If you are from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, you don’t need any kind of EU work visa to work in Denmark. Thanks to the EU’s freedom-of-movement policy, you can simply pack your bags and get working without any permits.
On the other hand, if you are from a non-EU/EEA country, however, things are a little different. As a non-EU and non-EEA citizen, you need a Denmark work visa to work in Denmark.
Even if the work you wish to do in Denmark is unpaid work, you still need to apply for a work visa as a foreigner and go through Denmark’s immigration process.
This applies to non-EU/EEA citizens, including residents from the United States, Canada, India, and most other countries outside Europe.
How to Apply for a Denmark Work Visa – A Guide to Getting Your Work Permit Denmark
Securing a Denmark work visa involves several steps. But the Denmark work visa application process is pretty straightforward once you figure out the kind of work visa scheme you need.
All applications for a Danish work visa gets done online via SIRI, the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration. Here’s a step-by-step guide to how you can go about the application process.
1. Choose the Right Denmark Work Visa Scheme
Denmark has several work visa schemes created to cater to and attract different professionals, entrepreneurs, and skilled workers.
Here’s a breakdown of the main visa scheme options:
- The Positive List Scheme
Denmark maintains a list of professions in shortage. If your occupation is on the positive list—such as IT, engineering, or healthcare—you can apply through this scheme.
This list is regularly updated on January 1 and July 1 every year, to reflect Denmark’s current labor needs.
- The Pay Limit Scheme
This scheme is for individuals who have received a high-paying job offer in Denmark. For 2024, the minimum salary requirement is approximately DKK 448,000 (about USD 64,000) per year. This scheme is ideal if you have specialized skills and a solid job offer.
- The Fast-Track Scheme
SIRI-certified companies in Denmark can use the fast-track scheme to fast-track applications for highly qualified international workers. If you get hired by an approved company, you can use this scheme for a quicker and smoother visa process.
The work permit Denmark you will receive is also more flexible than most other visa schemes allow.
- The Start-Up Denmark Scheme
This unique option is for entrepreneurs with a compelling business idea. The Danish government uses this scheme to attract high-impact entrepreneurs who wish to start a branch or grow their startups in Denmark.
If approved, you will receive a work permit Denmark to establish and operate your business in the country. This visa scheme is ideal if you are looking to build something innovative and join Denmark’s startup ecosystem.
Other visa scheme options include:
- Herdsmen and Farm managers
- Trainee
- Sideline employment
- Labor market attachment
2. Create a Case Order ID
To apply for work permit, you will need to create a Case Order ID. Once you have selected the appropriate visa scheme, head over to the Danish Immigration Service website to create a Case Order ID.
It’s basically a process where you create an account with your personal information, including an active email address and your passport number. This ID is essential as it links your application to your payment and allows you to track its progress.
3. Pay the Denmark Work Visa Fee
After creating your Case Order ID, you must pay the visa processing fee. This fee varies depending on the visa scheme you choose and other application details.
So, check the latest rates before you begin your application for a work permit in Denmark. However, most visa options typically cost around DKK 4,405 (about 627 USD).
You can pay online through the immigration portal. Ensure you have payment proof as it’s often required later in the application.
Note: Endeavour to make your visa processing fee in the same calendar year as the year you created your case order ID. If you fail to do this, your application may get rejected.
4. Gather the Required Documents for Your Work Permit Denmark Application
Now, you are set to begin your application. But first, check all the Denmark work visa requirements you need and begin to collect your documents. What you need can vary, depending on the visa type or scheme you chose:
But generally, it includes:
- Passport: A valid passport, with photocopies of relevant pages and at least two blank pages
- Job Offer or Contract: A signed contract from your employer in Denmark, which must not be older than 30 days
- Danish authorization for the job (if it’s required)
- Educational Credentials: Degrees, diplomas, or certificates that prove your qualifications for the position for which you have gotten employement in.
- Proof of Work Experience: Letters or other evidence showing relevant work experience
- Financial Documentation: For certain visas, especially self-employment, you may need to show financial capability
- Proof of visa fee payment
- Health Insurance: Proof of health coverage for the duration of your stay in Denmark
- A passport-sized photograph that follows the Schengen guidelines for photos
Check the specific list for your visa scheme on the immigration portal for the documents you need. Missing documents can delay your application.
5. Submit Your Application
You can submit your application online via the Danish Immigration Service portal or SIRI. In some cases, if you are outside Denmark, you can also make your submission through the Danish embassy in your resident country.
In the absence of an application center in your country, a Norwegian mission or Danish diplomatic mission in the region will suffice, upon referral.
Follow the instructions on where and how to submit, and double-check that all your documents get attached in the final submission.
6. Complete the Biometrics Process
You will need to provide biometrics, fingerprints, and a passport-style photo as part of the application process. This is usually done at a Danish consulate or embassy/diplomatic mission in your home country.
You should complete your biometrics processes within 14 days of applying. Biometrics are essential for your residence card. You get issued your residence card upon approval. Note that the biometrics process is a physical process rather than online.
7. Wait for a Decision on Your Work Permit Denmark Application
With everything submitted, all that’s left is to wait. Processing times can vary, but on average, it takes about 30 days. Some schemes, like the Fast-Track Scheme, tend to be faster, taking only about 10 days.
You will receive a response or decision about your application status via email from the application center you applied to.
How Long Does a Denmark Work Permit or Visa Last?
Work visas in Denmark are generally issued for the duration of your employment contract. The longest your work visa can last is a maximum of four years initially or if your job contract is indefinite.
This means if your contract is for one year, your visa will cover that period plus an extra 6 months.
If you are on an indefinite contract, the visa issued lasts for up to four years and can either be extended or renewed as needed. This will require you to make another application for work permit and residence permit.
Extending Your Denmark Work Visa
If you are nearing the end of your work visa and want to stay longer, you can apply for an extension. Make sure you start this process well in advance of your visa expiration.
An extension applies only if you retain the same job as your initial work visa. Otherwise, you will not need an extension but instead a fresh application for a work permit Denmark.
You will need to provide proof of employment continuity, your valid work contract, and any additional documents required by the immigration authority.
Extensions are generally straightforward if you have maintained employment and complied with your visa terms.
Additional FAQs
Here’s a quick rundown of common questions people have about Danish work permits.
- What is the Minimum Salary for a Work Permit Denmark?
For work visa schemes like the Pay Limit Scheme, there is a minimum salary requirement that you need to earn each year before you qualify for this type of work visa.
For 2024, it’s around DKK 448,000 (approximately USD 64,000) per year. This is for positions under the Pay Limit Scheme and some other types of work permits.
- Can Foreigners Work in Denmark Without a Visa?
Generally, non-EU/EEA nationals need a work permit to work in Denmark. However, if you are here for short-term business purposes, you might qualify for a work visa-free visit.
But you still cannot engage in paid employment as a Denmark foreign worker without a permit.
- Can I Convert a Visitor Visa to a Work Permit Denmark?
Unfortunately, you cannot convert a visitor visa to a work permit in Denmark. Work permit applications must be made from outside Denmark.
So if you are on a visitor visa, you will need to return home to apply for your work permit Denmark.
- Can You Apply for a Denmark Work Visa Without a Job Offer?
Most Danish work permits require a job offer. However, the Start-Up Denmark scheme is an exception. It allows entrepreneurs to secure a visa without traditional employment.
Meanwhile, you can check some websites if you are looking for how to get a job in Denmark.
- Does Denmark Offer Work Visa Sponsorship?
Yes, many companies in Denmark sponsor work visas for foreign employees. When you receive a job offer from such a company, the company often assists in obtaining the necessary permits.
The company or employer may apply on your behalf if you grant a Power of Attorney for them to do so. If the company has the SIRI-certified for the Fast-Track Scheme. It makes your Denmark immigration process a lot easier.
Conclusion – Getting Your Work Permit Denmark
Working in Denmark is a fantastic opportunity for most foreign workers. It offers a high quality of life and a progressive work environment.
While the visa process may seem lengthy, it is pretty straightforward. By following the steps highlighted in this article, the entire process of obtaining your work permit Denmark will be much smoother.
