Denmark to Ease Work Permit Rules for 16 Non-EU Countries: Lower Salary Requirements and Simpler Process
In a major policy shift aimed at tackling labour shortages and attracting global talent, the Danish government is set to unveil a new work permit reform on Monday that will make it significantly easier for professionals from 16 non-EU countries to live and work in Denmark.
A Landmark Shift in Danish Immigration Policy
The upcoming reform focuses on lowering the salary threshold for foreign workers under Denmark’s Pay Limit Scheme—a primary route for non-EU nationals to obtain a work permit. The new rules are designed to address shortages in critical industries while ensuring fair employment practices through stronger worker protections.
Key Changes in Denmark’s Work Permit System
- Pay Limit Scheme Salary Requirement Slashed
Currently, non-EU professionals applying under the Pay Limit Scheme must secure a job offer with a minimum annual salary of DKK 514,000 (approx. €69,000).
Under the new plan, that threshold will drop to DKK 300,000 per year (approx. €40,000).
This makes it far easier for skilled workers from a broader range of sectors to qualify.
- Who Can Benefit? List of Eligible Countries
This reform specifically targets citizens from the following 16 non-EU countries:
- 🇺🇸 USA
- 🇬🇧 United Kingdom
- 🇸🇬 Singapore
- 🇨🇳 China
- 🇯🇵 Japan
- 🇦🇺 Australia
- 🇨🇦 Canada
- 🇮🇳 India
- 🇧🇷 Brazil
- 🇲🇾 Malaysia
- 🇲🇪 Montenegro
- 🇷🇸 Serbia
- 🇲🇰 North Macedonia
- 🇦🇱 Albania
- 🇺🇦 Ukraine
- 🇲🇩 Moldova
Note: EU nationals already enjoy the right to live and work in Denmark without needing a permit, so this policy focuses on attracting talent from outside the EU.
- Changes to the Supplementary Pay Limit Scheme
Denmark also operates a Supplementary Pay Limit Scheme for sectors experiencing serious labour shortages.
Currently, this scheme has a minimum salary requirement of DKK 415,000, but under the new rules, this too will be reduced to DKK 300,000.
This further expands opportunities for foreign workers in in-demand but lower-paying industries.
- New Employer and Worker Requirements
To ensure fair treatment and prevent “social dumping” (underpayment and exploitation), the revised policy includes strong worker protections:
- Employers must enter into a collective bargaining agreement with a relevant Danish trade union if they haven’t already.
- Foreign workers must carry valid ID at all times while working in Denmark.
These steps aim to maintain Danish labour standards while opening doors to foreign talent.
How the New Work Permit Process Will Work
To be eligible under the revised Pay Limit Scheme:
- You must receive a job offer from a Danish employer.
- The position must meet the new minimum salary of DKK 300,000/year.
- You must carry proper identification while working in Denmark.
The simplified process is designed to be more accessible for skilled professionals who previously may have been excluded due to high income requirements.
What’s the Expected Impact?
The Danish government projects the policy could bring in around 550 additional foreign workers in the short term.
While this number may seem modest compared to the 400,000+ foreign workers already in Denmark, experts and business leaders believe the actual impact could be much greater.
Industry response has been overwhelmingly positive, viewing the changes as a critical step in solving chronic labour shortages and enhancing Denmark’s appeal in the global talent marketplace.
Why This Matters for Global Job Seekers
If you’re a skilled worker from one of the 16 eligible countries, this reform presents a unique opportunity to live and work in Denmark with fewer financial and bureaucratic barriers.
By aligning immigration policy with real-world labour demands and upholding fair workplace standards, Denmark is showing how economic growth and worker protections can go hand in hand.
Final Thoughts
Denmark’s work permit overhaul is not just an administrative update—it’s a strategic move to secure its future workforce, boost competitiveness, and maintain fair labour practices.
If you’ve been considering Denmark as a career destination, now might be the perfect time to explore new opportunities in this forward-thinking Scandinavian nation.
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