Work Permits for Non-EU Nationals in Denmark
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?
Non-EU/EEA nationals generally need a work permit, issued through one of several schemes:
- Pay Limit Scheme (Beløbsordningen): For jobs with an annual salary of at least approximately DKK 514,000 (2025) — no shortage-list requirement.
- Positive List: For occupations experiencing a shortage of qualified workers — a separate list exists for highly educated workers and for skilled workers.
- Fast-track Scheme: For certified companies — streamlined processing for high-skill employees.
- Researcher Scheme: For researchers and PhD students at approved institutions.
- Start-up Denmark: For entrepreneurs with an innovative business idea approved by an expert panel.
- Tied to employer: Most work permits are tied to a specific employer and job — changing jobs requires a new permit.
When does it apply?
- You are a non-EU/EEA national who has received a job offer in Denmark.
- You want to start a business in Denmark.
What to Do If You Have a Job Offer in Denmark but Need a Work Permit
- Identify the correct scheme based on your salary, profession, or circumstances.
- Apply through nyidanmark.dk — ideally before arriving in Denmark (your employer often helps).
- If you change employers, apply for a new work permit before starting the new job.
- Ensure your employer is registered and in good standing with SIRI.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't start working before your permit is issued — it is illegal and can result in deportation.
- Don't switch employers without a new permit — your existing permit is tied to the specific job.
- Don't accept a salary below the scheme threshold — it invalidates your permit.
Common Questions
Which Danish work permit schemes exist for non-EU workers?
The Pay Limit Scheme (salary above roughly DKK 514,000/year in 2025, no shortage requirement), the Positive List (for shortage occupations — separate lists for highly educated and skilled workers), the Fast-track Scheme (for certified companies), the Researcher Scheme (researchers and PhD students at approved institutions), and Start-up Denmark (entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas approved by an expert panel).
Is a Danish work permit tied to my employer?
Yes. Most work permits are tied to a specific employer and job. Changing jobs requires a new work permit. Starting the new job before the new permit is issued is illegal and can result in deportation and a re-entry ban. Ensure your new employer is registered and in good standing with SIRI before applying.
What happens if my Danish salary drops below the scheme threshold?
The permit can be invalidated. The Pay Limit Scheme requires the annual salary to remain at or above the threshold. Accepting a salary below the threshold — or any off-the-books top-up — can make the permit invalid. Apply for renewal at least 3 months before expiry and do not let your permit lapse.
When does it apply — work permits for non-eu nationals?
You are a non-EU/EEA national who has received a job offer in Denmark.You want to start a business in Denmark.
What should I do if I am a non-EU national who has been offered a job in Denmark and needs to apply for a work permit?
Identify the correct scheme based on your salary, profession, or circumstances.Apply through nyidanmark.dk — ideally before arriving in Denmark (your employer often helps).If you change employers, apply for a new work permit before starting the new job.Ensure your employer is registered and in good standing with SIRI.
What should you NOT do — work permits for non-eu nationals?
Don't start working before your permit is issued — it is illegal and can result in deportation.Don't switch employers without a new permit — your existing permit is tied to the specific job.Don't accept a salary below the scheme threshold — it invalidates your permit.