Denmark Work Visa 2027: Types, Rules and Steps

Why Work in Denmark

Denmark is one of the best countries in the world to work in. Salaries are high, the normal working week is only about 37 hours, workplaces are friendly and informal, and people have plenty of time for family and free time. Many international companies use English at work, so you can often start without speaking Danish. If you are not from the EU or EEA, you need a residence and work permit, often called a Denmark work visa, from the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI). For almost every type of permit, you first need a job offer from a Danish employer, and your permit is linked to that job.

Types of Denmark Work Visas

Denmark has several work permit schemes, and the right one depends on your job, salary and situation. The Pay Limit Scheme is for anyone with a well-paid job offer, at least DKK 552,000 a year in 2026, in any profession. The Supplementary Pay Limit Scheme accepts a lower salary of at least DKK 446,000 a year, but has extra conditions. The Positive Lists are for jobs where Denmark is short of qualified workers, and there your salary does not need to reach the pay limit, but you need a matching education. The Fast-Track Scheme lets companies certified by SIRI hire foreign workers more quickly. There are also permits for herdsmen and farm managers in agriculture, for people with special individual qualifications such as professional athletes, artists or top chefs, and for doctors and dentists who need training to get Danish authorisation. People who already have a work permit can apply for a sideline job, and family members of people working in Denmark can get their own right to work there.

Requirements for a Denmark Work Visa

For most permits, you need a job offer, and your salary and working conditions must meet Danish standards for that job. Under the Pay Limit Scheme, only your fixed salary, pension contributions and holiday pay count toward the limit, not extras like a company car or phone. Under the Positive Lists, your job title must be on the list, and you need an education that matches it. Your salary must be paid into a Danish bank account in your name, which you must open within 180 days after your permit is granted. If your profession is regulated, such as doctor, dentist or nurse, you also need Danish authorisation before you can work.

Steps to Apply for a Denmark Work Visa

First, find a job and choose the scheme that fits your offer. Next, create a case order ID on the official SIRI website, which works like a personal case number, and pay the fee of DKK 6,810 for most work permits. Then submit your application online with your documents, such as your passport and signed employment contract, either yourself or through your employer. No later than 14 days after applying, you must give your biometrics, meaning your photo and fingerprints, at a Danish embassy, consulate or visa centre. Processing usually takes about one month, or up to three months if SIRI needs more information.

How Long It Lasts, Extending It and Permanent Residence

Under the Pay Limit Scheme, you normally get a permit for four years if your job lasts four years or more, and up to five years under the Supplementary Pay Limit Scheme. Some permits, such as for farm managers or special qualifications, are first granted for one year. If your contract continues, you can apply for an extension, but you must do this before your permit expires. If you change jobs, you need a new permit, and you must apply no later than the day you start the new job. After eight years of legal residence, or four years if you meet extra conditions, you may be able to apply for permanent residence, which also requires passing a Danish language exam.

Check if you qualify for a Denmark work permit →