Denmark has updated its wage requirements for foreign workers under the Positive List for Skilled Work, effective February 20, 2025.
The government wants to ensure foreign professionals are fairly compensated, and the new wage thresholds align with Danish standards.
The Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI) will now review work permit applications based on these updated requirements.
This process ensures the country maintains fair pay practices and complies with local labor standards for foreign professionals.
Changes to Positive List and Job Classifications
The Positive List identifies jobs with skill shortages, giving qualified foreign professionals the opportunity to apply for work and residence permits.
Denmark revises this list twice a year, on January 1st and July 1st, to reflect changes in the labor market.
Starting in February 2025, SIRI will review applications under the new wage standards, while applications submitted before that date will follow the previous criteria.
This allows the government to adjust the process while ensuring fairness for foreign workers.
Simplified Salary Verification Process
Each job on the Positive List now includes a classification code, which helps simplify salary assessments for foreign workers and employers.
For positions covered by collective agreements, the verification process becomes easier, but employers must ensure compliance with Denmark’s minimum wage standards for positions without agreements.
Foreign workers must meet salary requirements and employment conditions to qualify for the work permit process.
Employer Responsibilities and Benefits
Employers must provide essential benefits, such as paid holidays and pension contributions, according to Danish labor regulations.
The new rules also require employers to deposit salaries into Danish bank accounts, excluding uncertain pay components like bonuses or commissions.
Additional Visa Options for Foreign Workers
Denmark offers several other visa programs, including the Highly Educated Positive List, Pay Limit Scheme, Fast Track, and Researcher’s Scheme.
These alternative programs create more opportunities for skilled professionals to apply for work permits based on their qualifications and experience.
Employer Compliance and Work Permits
Employers hiring foreign workers under the Positive List must comply with Denmark’s apprenticeship training requirements under the Læreplads-AUB program.
Before submitting work permit applications, employers must ensure they meet these legal obligations to prevent delays in the process.
Verifying Salary and Legal Compliance for Applicants
Foreign job seekers must ensure that their job positions meet the new salary requirements and confirm that their employers comply with the updated regulations.
This process ensures applicants can secure legal employment and work permits in Denmark while adhering to the revised standards.
