Denmark Updates Salary Requirements for Skilled Work Visas in 2025

Denmark has announced new salary statistics for the Positive List for Skilled Work, effective February 20, 2025. This update will significantly influence work permit applications, ensuring that salaries meet Danish standards.

The Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI) will utilize these updated figures to evaluate work permit applications. This change will affect foreign workers seeking employment in Denmark and requires careful attention from both applicants and employers. This article breaks down the key changes and what they mean for you.

Overview: Positive List for Skilled Work

The Positive List for Skilled Work includes job roles facing a shortage of qualified professionals in Denmark. Foreign workers who secure a position in one of these professions can apply for a Danish residence and work permit. This list is updated biannually, on January 1 and July 1.

Impact of the New Wage Statistics

SIRI relies on wage data compiled by Statistics Denmark to ensure foreign workers receive salaries that align with Danish standards. Here’s what the update means for applicants:

• Applications submitted on or after February 20, 2025, will be evaluated based on the new wage statistics.
• Applications submitted before this date will be assessed using the previous wage statistics.
• Each job listed in the Positive List for Skilled Work includes a classification code (DISCO-08-code), ensuring clarity in job classification.

Salary and Employment Conditions

Foreign workers applying under the Positive List for Skilled Work must meet Danish employment standards. This includes:

• Salaries, holiday entitlements, and notice periods must comply with Danish regulations.
• Employers generally do not include uncertain salary components, like commissions or bonuses, in salary calculations.
• Employers must deposit salaries into a Danish bank account, covering liquid wages, labor market pension contributions, and paid holiday allowances.

Salary Standards and Employment Conditions

For applications submitted on or after January 1, 2025, SIRI has revised income requirements. This ensures foreign workers receive competitive wages aligned with local norms. Employers offering jobs not covered by collective agreements must guarantee salaries meet Danish standards, with a minimum monthly earning of approximately DKK 74,958.

Other Work Visa Options

If your job requires university-level qualifications, refer to the Positive List for the Highly Educated for alternative work permit options. Other work visa schemes include:

• Pay Limit Scheme
• Fast Track Scheme
• Researcher’s Scheme
• Supplementary Pay Limit Scheme

Employer Obligations

To qualify for a work permit under the Positive List for Skilled Work, employers must comply with apprenticeship training obligations under Læreplads-AUB (Employers’ Training Contribution). Before applying, ensure your employer meets this requirement.

Final Thoughts

With Denmark’s new wage statistics set to take effect soon, foreign workers must remain informed about updated salary requirements. If you plan to apply for a Danish work visa, check the latest Positive List for Skilled Work.

Also, confirm your employer’s compliance with all necessary regulations. Being well-prepared will enhance your chances of a successful application to work and live in Denmark.