Denmark Work Visa Requirements 2025: Revised Salary Thresholds for Foreigners

Denmark is revising income requirements for foreign nationals seeking work-based residence permits in 2025. These new rules aim to ensure fair wages and compliance with Danish labor standards. Starting January 1, 2025, Denmark will implement stricter income requirements for foreign workers.

The Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI) announced this pivotal change. They will evaluate whether the offered salary aligns with Danish standards. SIRI emphasized that the goal is to ensure fair treatment for all foreign workers entering Denmark.

New Salary Assessment Criteria

The updated income level will play a crucial role in determining if foreign workers receive equitable salaries. SIRI’s new rules focus on two main objectives:

• Ensuring foreign workers earn fair wages.
• Promoting consistency with remuneration provided to employees in similar roles within Denmark.

To qualify for a residence and work permit, applicants must show that their salary and employment terms comply with Danish standards. This includes matching remuneration to the type of employment.

Effective Dates for the New Rules

The revised income requirement will apply to all applications submitted on or after January 1, 2025. However:

• Applications filed between October 1 and December 31, 2024, will be assessed using current income levels.
• Applications submitted from January 2025 will follow the revised standards.

This transitional arrangement ensures that only applications submitted in 2025 or later are affected by the updated criteria.

Schemes Affected by the Salary Requirement

The revised income requirements apply to both first-time applications and extensions of work-based residence permits under various schemes:

• Pay Limit Scheme: For high-salary positions.
• Supplementary Pay Limit Scheme: For secondary roles meeting salary thresholds.
• Fast Track Scheme: For a streamlined process for certified companies.
• Researcher’s Scheme: For employment in academic and research fields.
• Positive List for Higher Education: For roles in demand requiring advanced qualifications.
• Positive List for Skilled Work: For shortage occupations requiring specific skills.
• Special Individual Qualifications Scheme: For unique roles based on exceptional expertise.

Generally, employment contracts covered by collective agreements will meet the required standards. If salaries fall short, employers must provide additional comments for review before a final decision.

Understanding ‘Danish Standards’

Danish authorities consider a foreign worker’s salary compliant if a collective agreement covers their employment contract.

Consequences of Not Meeting Salary Requirements

If authorities determine that a foreign worker’s salary does not meet established standards, they will request an explanation from the employer. This step occurs before deciding on the permit application.

Recent Salary Standards for 2024

Denmark has also revised its work permit and salary assessment rules, effective October 1, 2024. Foreign workers and employers should stay updated on salary benchmarks, eligible work schemes, and current income thresholds for compliance with Danish application requirements.

Key Takeaways for Job Seekers

• Plan Ahead: Familiarize yourself with updated income requirements before submitting your application.
• Research Collective Agreements: Ensure your employment contract is covered by a relevant collective agreement to boost your approval chances.
• Consult an Immigration Specialist: Seek professional guidance to navigate Denmark’s complex immigration system.

Ensuring Fairness in Denmark’s Labor Market

By implementing these updated criteria, Denmark aims to protect the rights of foreign workers and maintain competitiveness in its labor market. These measures highlight Denmark’s commitment to fair treatment and equitable pay for all employees, regardless of nationality. Stay informed and prepared to enhance your chances of success in Denmark’s workforce.