Overview
Denmark has a points-based labour migration system designed to attract skilled workers. But how open Denmark is for you depends on your passport. The WikiVisa openness score runs from 0 (very open) to 100 (very restrictive). For example:
- Canada passport → 18/100 (Very Open) – you can likely get a work permit without a job offer in some cases.
- Philippines passport → 85/100 (Very Restrictive) – you will almost certainly need a job offer and employer sponsorship.
- Kenya passport → 85/100 (Very Restrictive) – same as above, expect a employer-led process.
Check Denmark's openness for your passport →
If your score is low (Very Open), you may qualify for a job-search permit or working holiday. If your score is high (Restrictive), focus on getting a job offer from a Danish employer who will sponsor your permit.
Who qualifies
To work in Denmark, you generally need:
- A job offer from a Danish employer (unless you qualify for the working holiday scheme).
- The job must meet minimum salary or be on the Positive List.
- You must have the required qualifications, experience, or education.
- You must not have a criminal record that would bar entry.
Some schemes (like the Pay Limit Scheme) require a high salary. Others (like the Positive List) require your profession to be in shortage.
Visa types
| Visa type | Who it suits | Key requirements | Duration & path to permanent residence |
|---|
| Pay Limit Scheme | Highly skilled workers earning above a threshold. No specific education needed. | Job offer with salary ≥ DKK 552,000/year (2026 level). Employer must submit the application. | Up to 4 years. Can lead to permanent residence after 4-8 years depending on other criteria. |
| Positive List for Skilled Workers | Professionals in shortage occupations (210+ professions). | Job offer in a listed profession. Fast-track processing for engineers, doctors, IT specialists, etc. | Up to 4 years. Can lead to permanent residence. |
| Working Holiday (youth mobility) | Citizens of certain countries aged 18-30/35. | No job offer needed. Allows part-time work and travel. | 1 year (non-renewable). Does not lead directly to permanent residence. |
| Researcher / Guest Researcher | Academics and researchers. | Invitation from a Danish research institution. | Up to 2 years, renewable. Can lead to permanent residence. |
| Internship | Students or recent graduates. | Internship contract with a Danish company. | Up to 1 year. |
How to apply
- Find a job – Use job portals like Jobindex, LinkedIn, or the EURES network. If you're on the Positive List, search for roles in shortage occupations.
- Get a job offer – Your employer must be willing to sponsor your permit. They will usually handle the application.
- Submit the application – Applications are made online via the SIRI (Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration) - New to Denmark portal. Your employer may need to submit certain documents.
- Pay the fee – Fees vary by scheme. See the table below.
- Wait for processing – Processing times vary. You can check current times on the SIRI website.
- Receive your permit – If approved, you'll get a residence and work permit. You may need to pick it up at a Danish embassy or consulate.
Costs & timelines
| Visa type | Application fee (approx.) | Processing time (approx.) |
|---|
| Pay Limit Scheme | DKK 3,000–6,000 | 1–3 months |
| Positive List | DKK 3,000–6,000 | 1–3 months |
| Working Holiday | DKK 1,500–2,500 | 1–2 months |
| Researcher | DKK 3,000–6,000 | 1–3 months |
Fees and processing times change. Always verify on the official SIRI website.
Documents you'll need
- Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity).
- Job offer letter or employment contract.
- Proof of qualifications (diplomas, certificates).
- CV / resume.
- Passport-sized photos.
- Proof of health insurance (for some schemes).
- Criminal record certificate (may be required).
- Application fee payment receipt.
Common mistakes
- Applying without a job offer – Unless you're on a working holiday, you need a job offer first.
- Salary below threshold – The Pay Limit Scheme requires a minimum salary. Check the current amount.
- Incomplete documents – Missing a single document can delay your application. Use the checklist on the SIRI website.
- Ignoring the Positive List – If your profession is on the list, processing may be faster.
- Not verifying your passport score – Your nationality affects which schemes you can use. See Denmark visa requirements for your nationality.
FAQ
Can I apply for a work visa without a job offer?
Only if you qualify for the Working Holiday scheme (certain nationalities, age 18-30/35). Otherwise, you must have a job offer.
How long does it take to get a work visa?
Typically 1–3 months, but it varies by scheme and your nationality. Check current processing times on the SIRI website.
Can I bring my family?
Yes, if you have a work permit for at least 1 year. Your spouse and children can apply for family reunification.
Is there a path to permanent residence?
Yes, after 4–8 years of continuous residence, depending on your visa type and other criteria (language, integration, etc.).
What if my job offer is withdrawn?
You must inform SIRI. You may have a short period to find a new job or leave Denmark.
Next steps
Your passport matters. For example, a Canadian passport scores 18/100 (Very Open), meaning you have more options. A Kenyan passport scores 85/100 (Very Restrictive), so you'll need a job offer and employer sponsorship. Check Denmark openness for your passport on the interactive map to see your score.
Once you know your score, focus on the right route:
- Low score (Very Open): Consider the Working Holiday scheme or job-search permit.
- High score (Restrictive): Start looking for a job in a shortage occupation or with a high salary to qualify for the Pay Limit Scheme or Positive List.
Visit the official SIRI website for the latest fees and forms. Good luck!