Rights and Protections for Immigrants
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Danish Acts of Parliament (love), executive orders (bekendtgørelser), and official government guidance. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
All immigrants in Denmark are entitled to fundamental rights and protections under Danish and international law, regardless of their nationality.
In terms of healthcare, all residents with a CPR number (civil registration number) have access to the Danish public healthcare system, which is free at the point of care. This includes GP visits, hospital treatment, specialist care, and partially subsidized prescriptions. Asylum seekers receive healthcare through the Danish Immigration Service. Emergency care is available to everyone, regardless of status.
In terms of employment, all workers in Denmark have the same rights regardless of nationality. Denmark has no statutory minimum wage — wages are set by collective agreements (typically DKK 130–160/hour for unskilled work, higher for skilled positions). Workers are entitled to 5 weeks of paid holiday, parental leave (up to 52 weeks total for both parents), and strong workplace safety protections. Trade union membership is widespread (approximately 67% of workers).
In terms of integration, newly arrived immigrants participate in an integration programme administered by the municipality. This includes Danish language courses (free for 3.5 years), cultural orientation, and employment support. The programme is mandatory for refugees and family reunification permit holders.
In terms of legal protection, all residents have access to the courts, legal aid for those who cannot afford a lawyer, and protection under the Danish Act on Prohibition of Discrimination.
When does it apply?
- You are an immigrant worker in Denmark and want to understand your employment rights.
- You or your family members need healthcare services.
- You are a newly arrived immigrant and need information about integration programmes.
- You are experiencing discrimination or workplace exploitation.
What to Do If Your Rights as an Immigrant Are Being Violated in Denmark
- Get your CPR number by registering at the International Citizen Service or Borgerservice — this unlocks healthcare, banking, and employment.
- Enroll in Danish language courses — they are free for the first 3.5 years and critical for integration, permanent residence, and citizenship.
- Join a trade union (fagforening) — membership gives you access to legal support, wage negotiations, and unemployment insurance (A-kasse).
- Register with your GP (praktiserende læge) — you will be assigned one automatically after receiving your CPR number, or you can choose one on sundhed.dk.
- Report workplace violations to the Danish Working Environment Authority (Arbejdstilsynet) or your trade union.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not work without a written contract — without one, you have very limited recourse if disputes arise.
- Do not skip the integration programme if it is mandatory for you — non-compliance can affect your residence permit and benefits.
- Do not delay getting your CPR number — you cannot access healthcare, open a bank account, or be paid legally without it.
- Do not accept wages significantly below collective agreement rates — this may constitute exploitation and should be reported.
Common Questions
When does it apply — rights and protections for immigrants?
You are an immigrant worker in Denmark and want to understand your employment rights.You or your family members need healthcare services.You are a newly arrived immigrant and need information about integration programmes.You are experiencing discrimination or workplace exploitation.
What should I do if I am being exploited at work or denied services because of my immigration status in Denmark?
Get your CPR number by registering at the International Citizen Service or Borgerservice — this unlocks healthcare, banking, and employment.Enroll in Danish language courses — they are free for the first 3.5 years and critical for integration, permanent residence, and citizenship.Join a trade union (fagforening) — membership gives you access to legal support, wage negotiations, and unemployment insurance (A-kasse).Register with your GP (praktiserende læge) — you will be assigned one automatically after receiving your CPR number, or you can choose one on sundhed.dk.Report workplace violations t...
What should you NOT do — rights and protections for immigrants?
Do not work without a written contract — without one, you have very limited recourse if disputes arise.Do not skip the integration programme if it is mandatory for you — non-compliance can affect your residence permit and benefits.Do not delay getting your CPR number — you cannot access healthcare, open a bank account, or be paid legally without it.Do not accept wages significantly below collective agreement rates — this may constitute exploitation and should be reported.
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