Denmark Introduces New Rules Allowing Short-Term Work Without Permits

The Danish Immigration Service has recently updated guidelines regarding short-term work permits for foreign nationals. These changes clarify which activities can be performed without a work permit and which require one. Visa seekers and international workers must pay attention to these important updates to ensure compliance during their short visits.

February 2025 Updates on Danish Short-Term Work Permits

Three major revisions were published by the Danish Immigration Service in February 2025. These updates detail the newly launched short-term work permit program:

1. Visa vs. Work Permit: Key Information

Most foreign nationals need both a residence and work permit to work in Denmark. However, for short stays (maximum of 90 days) on a visa or visa-free stay, specific work-related activities may not require a work permit.

Permitted activities without a work permit include:

• Receiving training, education, and instruction.
• Participating in business negotiations and meetings.

Activities requiring a work permit include:

• Contributing to a company’s output, such as creating or modifying a product.
• Performing tasks that exceed training and directly impact a company’s production.

If the nature of the work is uncertain, visa seekers should contact the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI) for guidance before applying.

2. Specific Examples of Work Activities

To clarify when a work permit is necessary, the Danish Immigration Service provides specific examples:

• Meetings and Briefings: A visa suffices for business meetings that do not directly contribute to production. For instance, attending a five-day meeting about foreign projects does not require a permit.
• Tender Participation: Foreign employees can participate in tender processes without a work permit, provided their role does not affect the final delivery. If their involvement influences production, a work permit is mandatory.
• Training and Assignments: Attending training alone does not require a work permit. However, if the trainee performs work-related tasks afterward, a permit is necessary.
• Stay Duration: If an employee’s stay exceeds 90 days, such as a 92-day training program, a work permit becomes mandatory.
• Incomplete Visa Applications: Applications that lack detailed descriptions of work-related activities may be rejected. For example, if an applicant seeks a 90-day visa but does not specify their training, the application may be denied.

3. Volunteering Without a Work Permit

Foreign nationals can engage in unpaid volunteer work during their visa or visa-free stay. However, volunteering must not be the primary purpose of their visit. Visa applications solely for unpaid volunteer work will be rejected. Authorities will evaluate whether unpaid volunteer work requires a work permit.

New Application Guidelines for Short-Term Work in Denmark

To avoid delays or rejections, visa applicants should include detailed descriptions of their planned activities. This includes:

• Type of meetings or training sessions.
• Purpose of travel.
• Expected outcomes (if any).
• Relevant computer systems or projects involved.
• Providing clear information helps Danish authorities determine whether a work permit is needed and streamlines case processing.

In summary, understanding these new rules is essential for anyone planning a short-term visit to Denmark. Complying with these guidelines ensures a smooth experience while working or training in the country.