Insights about working in Denmark – EU helpers Guidelines

Denmark is regularly voted one of the happiest places in the world and it's not hard to see

why. Flat working hierarchies, high salaries and generous holiday allowances are just some

of the reasons to work in Denmark

While an expensive place to live (think high taxes and living costs) you'll benefit from top-

notch public services including free healthcare. Your commute will be enjoyable too, as half

of those living in the capital Copenhagen cycle to work every day.

Jobs in Denmark

The Danish labour market is dominated by the services sector followed by industry and

unemployment is low at just 2.7%.

Due to its geographical location, Denmark is an important distribution point for Europe. Its

top exports include pharmaceuticals and medical equipment, iron and steel, food products,

textiles and clothing and electronics.

The Danish labour market famously operates on a system of 'flexicurity' meaning that

employers can hire and fire at will to adjust to the needs of the market but at the same time

employees are safeguarded by A-kasse (unemployment insurance fund).

Workers also enjoy excellent working conditions, thanks to a strong collaborative

arrangement between unions, employers and the Danish government, and the market is

dominated by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). You'll feel valued in your role

wherever you work in the southernmost Nordic country.

World-famous brands such as Pandora, Carlsberg, Ecco and Lego all have their roots in

Denmark too.

Popular Graduate Jobs

• Mechanical engineer

• Radiographer

• IT consultant

• Primary and secondary school teachers

• Psychologist

• Skills shortages

The government maintains a Positive List of shortage occupations - if you have the right

qualifications to fill any of the roles that appear on this list, you should find securing a job

relatively simple.

The Danish workforce is currently facing skills shortages in certain areas, such as science and

engineering, teaching, management, finance, medicine and healthcare, IT and law.

Jobs in demand for people with a higher education degree include:

• architect

• biochemist

• chief accountant

• civil engineer

• dentist

• doctor

• electronics engineer

• IT project manager

• lawyer

• librarian

• marketing manager

• midwife

• music teacher

• nurse

• pharmacist

• psychologist

• sales manager

• secondary school teacher

• web developer

How to get a job in Denmark

You may initially struggle to find employment in Denmark - employers in the country

prioritise Danish applicants over those from overseas. However, there are a number of

things you can do as an international worker to strengthen your application.

Firstly, make sure you've researched the company you're applying to and tailor your CV and

cover letter to the organisation. Showing knowledge of, and enthusiasm for the specific

company will help you to stand out - as will possessing relevant work experience.

You may also benefit from broadening your horizons. If you're willing to commute, or use

your skills in positions you haven't previously considered, you'll open yourself up to more job

opportunities. For example, applying for a job in a sector experiencing skills shortages can

improve your chances of securing work.

Finally, it's important to note that social media tools, particularly LinkedIn, are big in

Denmark. You can use them to build connections and show off your most relevant skills and

experience, and you're more likely to find a job if your online presence is polished.

Summer jobs

There are plenty of opportunities for seasonal work in Denmark's tourist sector in the bars,

hotels and clubs of Copenhagen and other cities. There's no official application process for

these kinds of roles, so try approaching establishments directly to discover opportunities.

You could also spend a summer working as an au pair. In return for providing a family with

childcare and completing household tasks, you'll receive a weekly allowance, be coveredwith medical insurance and provided with rent-free accommodation. Learn more about

applying for the au pair residence permit.

Alternatively, if you're able to financially support yourself you could partake in some form of

voluntary work.

Internships

The majority of Danish internships are based in Copenhagen, home to many large

companies.

If you are a non-EU citizen who requires a visa to enter Denmark, it is possible to obtain a

residence and work permit in order to take up an internship of up to 18 months, subject to

certain conditions and depending on the job sector you are interested in.

Language requirements

Danish is the country's official language, but it's not the only one you'll hear - the majority of

Denmark's population speak English as a second language, with many also having a grasp of

German, French and Swedish.

Job applications are primarily made in Danish or English, but check with your chosen

organisation for any specific language requirements.

While you'll be able to enter the workforce without fluent Danish under your belt, learning

the language will be essential for integrating with the locals, immersing yourself in Danish

culture and getting the most out of the experience of working in Denmark. In doing so, you'll

also be demonstrating commitment to your employers.

There are plenty of ways to learn Danish - you could learn the language online, via classes in

your home country or once you've arrived in the country.

What's it like to work in Denmark?

The Danish workforce operates on a standard working week of 37 hours, Monday to Friday.

However, with most employers this is flexible and can be adjusted to suit an employee's

needs. You'll be entitled to five weeks' annual leave and the country celebrates eleven public

holidays including:

• New Year's Day

• Maundy Thursday

• Good Friday

• Easter Sunday

• Easter Monday

• Prayer Day

• Ascension Day

• Whit Sunday

• Whit Monday

• Christmas Day• Second day of Christmas (26 December).

Workplaces typically have a flat hierarchy, meaning all employees are encouraged to

contribute ideas and take part in decision-making. It's normal to raise any issues you may

have with your CEO, for instance.

Denmark doesn't have a statutory minimum wage. Salaries are negotiated between

individuals and their employers.

The country adheres to a progressive tax system. While salaries are generally high, working

in Denmark you'll be charged a much higher rate of tax than most European countries. Bear

in mind this system is designed to allow for free public services, such as healthcare and

education.

In line with higher salaries and tax rates, you'll find that living costs - including

accommodation, food and public transport - are also fairly high. Factor this into your

research and budgeting if you're planning to make the move to Denmark.

To know more about the work permits and visa process and everything in between,

consult EU helpers.