Denmark Jobs for Foreigners 2026: Work Permit & Positive List
September 15, 2026
Work permits
Denmark Jobs for Foreigners 2026: Work Permit & Positive List
A practical guide to Denmark jobs for foreigners using the Pay Limit Scheme, with the 2026 salary minimum, fee and processing times published by the Danish immigration authorities.
EU Job Hub Editorial Team · Updated 1 October 2026
Introduction
Denmark jobs for foreigners are available through several work schemes. Denmark has a Positive List for shortage occupations and a Pay Limit Scheme for high salaries.
This guide focuses on the Pay Limit Scheme, because its rules are clear and published in detail by the Danish authorities. The Positive List is a different route, so check the official site for its current occupations.
Quick Information
| Scheme covered | Pay Limit Scheme |
| Minimum salary | DKK 552,000 a year (2026 level) |
| Processing time | Normally one month, up to three if more information is needed |
| Processing fee | DKK 6,810 |
| Working hours | At least 30 hours a week |
| Authority | Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI) |
What the Pay Limit Scheme Is
The scheme gives a residence and work permit to people who receive a job offer with a high salary. You do not need a specific education. The job does not have to be in a particular field.
The minimum amount is set each year on 1 January. For 2026 it is DKK 552,000.
What Denmark Jobs for Foreigners Usually Require
Your salary must meet the minimum even if you take unpaid holiday. Only some pay components count.
- Fixed salary paid in money, including guaranteed supplements.
- Payments to labour market pension schemes, from you and your employer.
- Paid holiday allowance, under the rules on timing.
Benefits such as a company car, phone, canteen or paid housing do not count towards the minimum. Ask your employer to state the salary clearly in the contract.
Danish Standards for Pay and Terms
The salary must not be lower than the standard in your professional field. Your holiday rights and notice periods must also meet Danish standards.
If SIRI has doubts, it can ask the Regional Employment Councils to assess your terms. A clear contract avoids delays.
Bank Account and Payment
Your salary must be paid into a Danish bank account in your own name. You must open the account within 180 days of receiving the permit, or within 180 days of entering Denmark.
You contact the bank yourself. The authority notes that you may need help with a basic payment account if you have no Danish address yet.
How the Application Works
The application is handled online. You and your employer each complete a part of the form. The authority calls this form AR1. If you give your employer power of attorney, the employer uses form AR6.
You first create a case order ID and pay the fee. Then you upload documents, including your passport copy, contract, and proof of education or experience where relevant.
You must also give biometrics, a photo and fingerprints, within 14 days of applying.
Your Rights and Duties After Approval
The permit is linked to your job. You must tell SIRI if you lose or change your job. You can change position inside the same company without a new permit, if pay and conditions still fit the rules.
You may not use social benefits under the Active Social Policy Act, or your permit can be revoked. You also must not leave Denmark or give up your address for more than six successive months.
If You Lose Your Job
If you become unemployed through no fault of your own, you can apply for a six-month job-seeking permit. You must apply no later than two days after your employment ends.
You may not work during that period. If you find a new job, you submit a new application. You can start work on the day you submit it.
Family and Language
The permit can cover your spouse or partner and children under 18 who live at home.
Residents are entitled to free Danish lessons. You pay a deposit first, and you can lose it if you do not pass the modules in time. Your municipality must offer lessons.
Application Checklist
- Confirm the job pays at least the 2026 minimum in qualifying components.
- Get a written contract with pay, hours and terms stated clearly.
- Check that the job is at least 30 hours a week.
- Create the case order ID and pay the fee.
- Agree who completes AR1 and when your employer finishes its part.
- Prepare passport copy, contract and education or experience proof.
- Book your biometrics within 14 days.
- Plan a Danish bank account within 180 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a degree for this scheme? No. The authority says no specific education or field is required.
How long does a decision take? Normally one month. It can take up to three months if more information is needed.
Can I change employer? You must apply for a new permit if you take a job with a new employer.
Can my family join me? Yes. A spouse or partner and children under 18 can apply under the family rules.
Next Steps
Check the salary first. If the offer is below the minimum, look at the Positive List or another scheme on the official site. Then build the application with your employer. Always confirm the current amounts before you apply.
Official Sources to Check
Use official platforms and national authorities to verify current rules before applying or travelling.
Continue Your Europe Job Search
Find vacancies, compare countries and prepare a stronger European job application at EU Job Hub, browse current jobs, or build a Europass CV.
Disclaimer: EU Job Hub provides general editorial information for jobseekers. It does not guarantee employment, sponsorship, work-permit approval or visa approval. Employment and immigration rules vary by country and by personal circumstances. Verify important information with employers and official authorities before making decisions. Never pay an individual or recruiter solely because they promise a job, placement or visa.
