Living and working conditions: Denmark

Implementation

Trainee placement at a company and employment with a wage subsidy are administered and approved by the municipality as part of the employment measure and tailored to the needs of each citizen.

Employees receiving wage subsidies must not replace regular staff in the workplace; their employment must therefore result in additional employment (a net increase). When trainee placement at a company or employment with wage subsidies is established, a reasonable balance at the workplace must be achieved between the number of employees on standard terms and number of people on trainee placement at a company or receiving wage subsidies.

A union/staff representative for the employees in the workplace helps to ensure compliance with applicable rules.

the person concerned takes a favourable view, if the objectives of the employment relationship can be met.

The rules vary slightly depending on whether the employment is in a public or a private company.

Living and working conditions

See above

Where to find opportunities

In the municipality where you live (see the municipality’s website, if applicable).

Funding and support

In the municipality where you live.

Living and working conditions

Students receive a salary or State Education Grant (Statens Uddannelsesstøtte, SU) during their studies, adjusted to the age of the student and the stage of the VET programme they are currently undertaking.

In addition, students can apply for subsidies for expenses such as transport or relocation via the Employers’ Education Grant (Arbejdsgivernes Uddannelsesbidrag, AUB).

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Where to find opportunities / job vacancies

Applicants can apply for apprenticeships at Lærepladsen.dk

Although the responsibility for finding a work placement lies largely with the student him/herself, vocational colleges support students in their search for a work placement and can offer guidance and help in contacting companies.

Funding and support

Applicants can contact local vocational colleges for guidance.

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There are various housing options in Denmark, including rental housing, colleges, temporary housing and owner-occupied housing. The housing supply, waiting times and prices vary depending on the geographical area, and it may be advisable to start your house-search well in advance of moving.

International citizens can find information on housing types, rental contracts, relocation and registration of addresses through official public information portals.

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In Denmark, educational opportunities are available for all age groups – from early childhood education and care, primary schools, to upper secondary and higher education. International citizens may find information about the education system, admission criteria and educational opportunities through public information portals.

Generally, children resident in Denmark have access to public primary and secondary education. There are also international schools in various parts of the country, which may be of interest to families moving to Denmark from abroad.

For young people and adults there is a range of upper secondary education, vocational education and training and higher education programmes, including university programmes taught in both Danish and English.

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The implementation of the principle of free movement of people, is one of the cornerstones of our European construction, has meant the introduction a series of practical rules to ensure that citizens can travel freely and easily to any Member State of the European Union. Travelling across the EU with one’s car has become a lot less problematic. The European Commission has set a series of common regulations governing the mutual recognition of driving licences, the validity of car insurance, and the possibility of registering your car in a host country.

Your driving licence in the EU

The EU has introduced a harmonised licence model and further minimum requirements for obtaining a licence. This should help to keep unsafe drivers off Europe's roads - wherever they take their driving test.

Since 19 January 2013, all driving licences issued by EU countries have the same look and feel. The licences are printed on a piece of plastic that has the size and shape of a credit card.

Harmonised administrative validity periods for the driving licence document have been introduced which are between 10 and 15 years for motorcycles and passenger cars. This enables the authorities to regularly update the driving licence document with new security features that will make it harder to forge or tamper ­- so unqualified or banned drivers will find it harder to fool the authorities, in their own country or elsewhere in the EU.

The new European driving licence is also protecting vulnerable road users by introducing progressive access for motorbikes and other powered two-wheelers. The "progressive access" system means that riders will need experience with a less powerful bike before they go on to bigger machines. Mopeds will also constitute a separate category called AM.

You must apply for a licence in the country where you usually or regularly live. As a general rule, it is the country where you live for at least 185 days each calendar year because of personal or work-related ties.

If you have personal/work-related ties in 2 or more EU countries, your place of usual residence is the place where you have personal ties, as long as you go back regularly. You don't need to meet this last condition if you are living in an EU country to carry out a task for a fixed period of time.

If you move to another EU country to go to college or university, your place of usual residence doesn't change. However, you can apply for a driving licence in your host country if you can prove you have been studying there for at least 6 months.

Registering your car in the host country

If you move permanently to another EU country and take your car with you, you should register your car and pay car-related taxes in your new country.

There are no common EU rules on vehicle registration and related taxes. Some countries have tax-exemption rules for vehicle registration when moving with the car from one country to another permanently.

To benefit from a tax exemption, you must check the applicable deadlines and conditions in the country you wish to move to.

Check the exact rules and deadlines with the national authorities: https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/vehicles/registration/registration-abroad/index_en.htm 

Car Insurance

EU citizens can insure their car in any EU country, as long as the chosen insurance company is licensed by the host national authority to issue the relevant insurance policies. A company based in another Member State is entitled sell a policy for compulsory civil liability only if certain conditions are met. Insurance will be valid throughout the Union, no matter where the accident takes place.

Taxation

Value Added Tax or VAT on motor vehicles is ordinarily paid in the country where the car is purchased, although under certain conditions, VAT is paid in the country of destination.
More information on the rules which apply when a vehicle is acquired in one EU Member State and is intended to be registered in another EU Member State is available on this link https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/vehicles/registration/taxes-abroad/index_en.htm.

After you arrive in Denmark, you must register with the public authorities to access healthcare services and other public services. The requirements depend on the nationality and length of stay.

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The importance of transparency and mutual recognition of diplomas as a natural complement to the free movement of workers

Recognition of qualifications and skills can play a vital role in the decision to take up work in another EU country. A European system that will guarantee the mutual acceptance of professional qualifications in different Member States is therefore essential. Only such a system will ensure that a lack of recognition of professional qualifications will not become an obstacle to the free movement of labour within the EU.

Main principles for the recognition of professional qualifications in the EU

As a basic principle, any EU citizen should be able to practice their profession in any Member State. Unfortunately, the practical implementation of this principle is often hindered by national requirements for access to certain professions in the host country.

For the purpose of overcoming these differences, the EU has set up a system for the recognition of professional qualifications. Within the terms of this system, a distinction is made between regulated professions (professions for which certain qualifications are legally required) and professions that are not legally regulated in the host Member State.

Steps towards transparency of qualifications in Europe

The European Union has taken important steps towards the objective of achieving transparency for qualifications in Europe:

• Increased co-operation in vocational education and training, with the intention to combine all instruments for transparency of certificates and diplomas, in one single, user-friendly tool. This includes, for example, the European CV or Europass Trainings.
• The development of concrete actions in the field of recognition and quality in vocational education and training.

Going beyond the differences in education and training systems throughout the EU

Education and training systems in the EU Member States still show substantial differences. The last enlargements of the EU, with different educational traditions, have further increased this diversity. Common rules to guarantee recognition of competences are needed.

In order to overcome this diversity of national qualification standards, educational methods and training structures, the European Commission has put forward a series of instruments, aimed at ensuring better transparency and recognition of qualifications both for academic and professional purposes.

1. The European Qualifications Framework
   
   The European Qualifications Framework is a key priority for the European Commission in the process of recognition of professional competences. The main objective of the framework is to create links between the different national qualification systems and guarantee the smooth transfer and recognition of diplomas.

2. The National Academic Recognition Information Centres (NARICs)
   
   A network of National Academic Recognition Information Centres (NARIC) was established in 1984 at the initiative of the European Commission. The NARICs provide advice on the academic recognition of periods of study abroad. Located in all EU Member States as well as in the countries of the European Economic Area, NARICs play a vital role the process of recognition of qualifications in the EU.

3. The European Credit Transfer System (ECTS)
   
   The European Credit Transfer System aims at facilitating the recognition of periods of study abroad. Introduced in 1989, it functions by describing an education programme and attaching credits to its components. It is a key complement to the highly acclaimed student mobility programme Erasmus.

4. Europass
   
   Europass is an instrument for ensuring the transparency of professional skills. It consists of five standardised documents

   • CV (Curriculum Vitae),
   • a cover letter editor,
   • certificate supplements,
   • Diploma supplements, and
   • a Europass-Mobility document.

   The Europass system makes skills and qualifications clearly and easily understood in the different parts of Europe. In every country of the European Union and the European Economic Area, national Europass centres have been established as the primary contact points for people seeking information about the Europass system.

There are various types of employment in Denmark, including full-time and part-time employment, fixed-term contracts, project-based employment and temporary work. The type of employment is typically found in the employment contract and may be relevant to matters such as working hours, conditions of termination and length of the period of employment.

Employment conditions may vary depending on the workplace, trade, and, where applicable, collective agreements.

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Employees in Denmark usually receive an employment contract or a certificate of employment describing the most important terms and conditions of employment. The contract typically contains details of work tasks, working hours, pay, annual leave, conditions of the termination and place of work.

Many terms and conditions of employment in Denmark are laid down in collective agreements between the social partners. Consequently, conditions such as pay, pension and working hours may vary between different industries and workplaces.

It is recommended that you carefully review the employment conditions before you sign the contract.

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Denmark has rules to ensure equal access to the labour market and protection of workers from discrimination. Special rules apply to for example young people under the age of 18, and various support schemes are available to help people with disabilities find or retain employment.

Danish law prohibits discrimination in the labour market because of, amongst other things, gender, age, disability, racial or ethnic origin, religion, sexual orientation or other protected characteristics. Employers and workers are also subject to rules on equal treatment and equal opportunities.

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Self-employed persons must register their business with the relevant authorities and are personally responsible for matters such as tax, VAT, accounting and reporting information to the public authorities.

The requirements depend on the type, size and activities of the business. There is official guidance on the establishment of a business, registration, and the administrative conditions associated with running a business in Denmark.

EU/EEA citizens and Swiss nationals may reside in Denmark as self-employed persons in accordance with EU rules on freedom of movement.

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There is no statutory minimum wage in Denmark. Salary and employment conditions are often determined through collective agreements between employers and employees or through individual agreements between employers and employees.

Salary levels vary depending on the industry, qualifications, experience, work tasks and geographical location. Salaries are normally paid into a Danish bank account, and tax is payable on working income in accordance with the applicable tax rules.

International workers should familiarise themselves with the salary and employment conditions in their industry before accepting a job offer.

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Working hours in Denmark depend on the employment relationship, workplace and any collective agreements. In many industries, a normal full-time working week is around 37 hours; however, working hours may vary depending on the job function and sector.

Danish and European legislation contains rules on, for example, maximum weekly working hours, rest periods and breaks. Special rules may also apply to night work and work outside normal working hours.

Working hours, overtime and any allowances are normally provided for in the employment contract or the relevant agreement.

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Employees in Denmark are entitled to annual leave and various types of leave of absence in accordance with applicable legislation, collective agreements and individual employment conditions.

There are rules governing, for example, annual leave, maternity and parental leave, sick leave and carer’s leave. Entitlements and terms and conditions may vary depending on the employment relationship, seniority in the work and the relevant agreement.

Denmark has a number of official holidays throughout the year. During these days, many workplaces are closed or have different opening hours. The right to days off or payment on public holidays depends on the employment relationship and any collective agreements.

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An employment may be terminated for various reasons, including dismissal by the employee or employer, expiry of a fixed-term employment or retirement.

Notice periods and other conditions for termination of employment depend on the employment contract, applicable legislation and, where applicable, collective agreements. In some cases, special rules apply to dismissals.

People losing their jobs may access guidance and support in connection with job search and employment.

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The Danish labour market is characterised by close cooperation between employers and employees. Employees may be represented by trade unions, which look after their interests in matters such as pay and working conditions.

In many workplaces, employees can choose a union representative who acts as a link between employees and management. Staff representatives may also sit on works councils and participate in other forms of dialogue between employers and employees.

Many salary and employment conditions in Denmark are regulated by collective agreements concluded between the social partners.

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The Danish labour market is based on dialogue and negotiations between employers and employees. If the partners are unable to reach an agreement during collective bargaining, this can lead to trade disputes such as strikes or lockouts.

The right to initiate industrial action is regulated by law and the agreements applicable on the Danish labour market. Trade disputes occur primarily in connection with the negotiation of collective agreements.

Most disagreements between employers and workers are resolved through dialogue, negotiations or the established institutions of the labour market.

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The term Vocational Education and Training refers to practical activities and courses related to a specific occupation or vocation, aimed at preparing participants for their future careers. Vocational training is an essential means to achieve professional recognition and improve chances to get a job. It is therefore vital that vocational training systems in Europe respond to the needs of citizens and the labour market in order to facilitate access to employment.

Vocational education and training has been an essential part of EU policy since the very establishment of the European Community. It is also a crucial element of the so-called EU Lisbon Strategy, which aims at transforming Europe into the world’s most competitive and dynamic knowledge-based society. In 2002 the European Council reaffirmed this vital role, and established yet another ambitious goal – to make European education and training renowned globally by the year 2010 – by championing a number of world-class initiatives, and in particular by strengthening cooperation in the area of vocational training.

On 24 November 2020, the Council of the European Union adopted a Recommendation on vocational education and training for sustainable competitiveness, social fairness and resilience.

The Recommendation defines key principles for ensuring that vocational education and training is agile in that it adapts swiftly to labour market needs and provides quality learning opportunities for young people and adults alike.

It places a strong focus on the increased flexibility of vocational education and training, reinforced opportunities for work-based learning, apprenticeships and improved quality assurance.

The Recommendation also replaces the EQAVET – European Quality Assurance in Vocational Education and Training – Recommendation and includes an updated EQAVET Framework with quality indicators and descriptors. It repeals the former ECVET Recommendation.

To promote these reforms, the Commission supports Centres of Vocational Excellence (CoVEs) which bring together local partners to develop ‘skills ecosystems'. Skills ecosystems will contribute to regional, economic and social development, innovation and smart specialisation strategies.

Erasmus+

Erasmus+ is the EU's programme to support education, training, youth and sport in Europe.

It has an estimated budget of €26.2 billion. This is nearly double the funding compared to its predecessor programme (2014-2020).

The 2021-2027 programme places a strong focus on social inclusion, the green and digital transitions, and promoting young people’s participation in democratic life.

It supports priorities and activities set out in the European Education Area, Digital Education Action Plan and the European Skills Agenda. The programme also

• supports the European Pillar of Social Rights
• implements the EU Youth Strategy 2019-2027
• develops the European dimension in sport

Who can take part? Find out here.

Adult Education and Lifelong Learning in Europe

Lifelong learning is a process that involves all forms of education – formal, informal and non-formal – and lasts from the pre-school period until after retirement. It is meant to enable people to develop and maintain key competencies throughout their life as well as to empower citizens to move freely between jobs, regions and countries. Lifelong learning is also a core element of the previously mentioned Lisbon Strategy, as it is crucial for self-development and the raising of competitiveness and employability. The EU has adopted several instruments for the promotion of adult education in Europe.

A European area of lifelong learning

In order to make lifelong learning a reality in Europe, the European Commission has set itself the objective of creating a European Area of Lifelong Learning. In this context, the Commission focuses on identifying the needs of both learners and the labour market in order to make education more accessible and subsequently create partnerships between public administrations, suppliers of educational services and civil society.

This EU initiative is based on the objective of providing basic skills – by strengthening counselling and information services at a European level, and by recognising all forms of learning, including formal education and informal and non-formal training.

EU organisations promoting vocational education in Europe

With the objective of facilitating cooperation and exchange in the field of vocational training, the EU has set up specialised bodies working in the field of VOCATIONAL TRAINING.

The European Centre for Vocational Training (CEDEFOP / Centre Européen pour le Développement de la Formation Professionnelle) was created in 1975 as a specialised EU agency for the promotion and development of vocational education and training in Europe. Based in Thessaloniki, Greece, it carries out research and analysis on vocational training and disseminates its expertise to various European partners, such as related research institutions, universities or training facilities.

The European Training Foundation was established in 1995 and works in close collaboration with CEDEFOP. Its mission is to support partner countries (from outside the EU) to modernise and develop their systems for vocational training.

The political system

Denmark is a constitutional monarchy and a parliamentary democracy. The head of state is the King, while the government exercises political power and is accountable to the Danish Parliament (Folketinget).

Folketinget is Denmark’s legislative assembly and comprises 179 members, including representatives from the Faroe Islands and Greenland. Members are elected in general elections, which are held at least every four years. Denmark has a multiparty system, where governments are typically formed through cooperation between several parties.

The administrative system

The constitution forms the basis for Danish democracy and lays down the fundamental rights and freedoms of citizens, as well as the organisation of the State.

Legislative proposals are examined and adopted by the Danish Parliament. Once a law has been adopted and authenticated by the King, it will enter into force on the date specified in the law.

The public sector is organised at three levels: the state, five regions (four regions from 1 January 2027) and 98 municipalities. The municipalities are responsible for a wide range of welfare tasks, including employment measures, social services, early childhood education and care, and primary schools. The regions bear the main responsibility for Public Health, including hospitals and psychiatry.

Employment measures are carried out in cooperation between the State and municipalities. The overall national responsibility for employment policy lies with the Danish Agency for Labour Market and Recruitment (STAR), while the municipalities provide guidance and services to jobseekers and businesses.

The legal system

Denmark has an independent judicial system consisting of district courts, high courts and the Supreme Court. The courts hear both civil and criminal cases.

The police are responsible for maintaining law and order, preventing crime and investigating offences.

Citizens can obtain legal assistance through lawyers and various public advice centres. The Parliamentary Ombudsman (Folketingets Ombudsmand) investigates complaints against public authorities and oversees the public administration.

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As a general rule, people working in Denmark are liable to revenue tax. The extent of tax liability depends on for example the length of stay, residence status and employment relationship.

Denmark has a tax system under which tax is levied on working income, self-employment and certain other forms of income. Tax revenue is used, amongst other things, to fund the health system, education and other public welfare benefits.

In order to work in Denmark, most people will need to register with the Danish tax authorities and have a tax card. Salaries are normally paid into a Danish bank account, and the employer usually deducts tax directly from the salary.

Persons moving to Denmark or working across national borders may be subject to special rules on tax liability and double taxation. Examination of the applicable rules in the specific situation is therefore recommended.

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The cost of living in Denmark varies depending on where in the country you live and the kind of lifestyle you have. In general, costs are highest in the largest cities, particularly in Copenhagen and Aarhus, while housing and transport costs are often lower in smaller cities and rural areas.

For most households, the main items of expenditure are housing, supplies, transport, food and leisure activities. International immigrants should be aware that prices and costs of living can be higher than in many other European countries.

At the same time, Denmark offers a comprehensive public welfare system with access to services such as healthcare and education, which can reduce some private expenditure.

It is recommended that you explore housing prices, transport options and the general cost of living in the area where you plan to live and work.

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There are various kinds of accommodation in Denmark, including rental housing, owner-occupied housing, housing cooperatives and temporary accommodation. Housing prices and accessibility vary considerably between different parts of the country.

International immigrants should explore the housing options in the area where they plan to live and work, and be aware of rules on rental contracts, deposits, and address registration.

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Denmark has a public health system that provides access to healthcare services for people that are covered by the Danish medical insurance scheme. Access to the health system usually requires registration with the Danish authorities.

The public health system includes general practitioners, medical specialists, hospitals, and emergency care.

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Denmark provides educational opportunities for children, young people and adults. The education system comprises early childhood education and care, primary schools, upper secondary education, vocational education and training, and higher education.

There are also international schools and English-language higher education programmes that may be of interest to international citizens and their families.

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Denmark is characterised by an active cultural and recreational lifestyle with museums, libraries, sports clubs, associations and cultural events throughout the country. The voluntary sector plays an important role in Danish society and offers great opportunities for meeting new people and building networks.

International citizens can find information about leisure activities, social networks and local communities through the municipalities’ official websites and local organisations.

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When major life events occur, such as births, marriage and deaths, public authorities may need to be contacted. Rules and procedures depend on the specific situation and on the person’s residence status in Denmark.

Official self-service solutions and guides are available on the public citizens’ portals.

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