Looking to hire non-resident workers for a project in Denmark? If they contribute to the output of the project, or their visit surpasses 90 days, then you’ll need to apply for a work permit on their behalf. We work across construction, oil & gas, offshore and renewable energy industries and often have job vacancies in Denmark.
Join us as we explore why Denmark makes an ideal project location – plus what’s involved in the visa application process.
Why choose Denmark?
Denmark is an attractive destination for international workers because it offers strong employee benefits, competitive tax schemes, structured working conditions, and high demand across industries such as construction, offshore, oil & gas, and renewable energy.
While there’s no 13th or 14 month bonus as you would find in other European countries, like France, there are still many reasons candidates should be attracted to working in Denmark:
- Minimum wage is €700 per month
- 37.5-hour working week
- 25 days’ holiday, plus 1% holiday supplement
- 100% sick pay offered through the employer for 30 days
- Expat, highly skilled, and researcher tax schemes
The special expatriate scheme allows expats to apply for a flat tax rate of 27% on their gross salary for up to 84 months – providing this exceeds at least DKK 72,500 per year, and the worker meets certain other conditions.
Other advantages of their tax system include:
- Denmark income tax system: Progressive for personal income, with national taxes categorised as bottom and top tax.
- Property value tax: This applies to both Danish properties and those in another country. It totals 0.92% annually for properties up to DKK 3,040,000 and 3% for those that surpass this.
- Inheritance tax: This is usually charged regardless of the beneficiary country of residence, and can amount to 15%.
Which visa should you choose?
Denmark offers three main work permit options depending on salary level, qualifications, and labour market demand: the Fast Track Scheme, Pay Limit Scheme, and Positive List Scheme.
- Fast track scheme: This flexible visa is ideal for those who’ve received an offer from a company that’s certified by SIRI. It makes for easy hiring of those with special qualifications, and a quick job start.
- The Pay Limit Scheme: This visa is for those on a high income (earning DKK 448,000 per year or more).
- The positive list: This work permit is for those with a job offer where the profession is going through a shortage of qualified professionals in Denmark, for example engineers, doctors, medical consultants, and auditors.
What documents are required?
To apply for a Denmark work permit on behalf of a non-resident worker, employers must submit several supporting documents, including a valid passport, employment contract, health insurance, and proof of qualifications.
To apply for the visa on behalf of your contractor, this will involve the following paperwork:
- The worker’s passport (and a copy of it) – this must be valid and have at least two blank pages.
- Health insurance covering the full period of stay in Denmark.
- A completed power of attorney form that permits the employer to submit on the worker’s behalf.
- An employment contract or job offer (this cannot be older than 30 days).
- A diploma or academic qualification substantiating that the worker is certified for the specific role.
- Danish authorisation for the job (if required).
Conclusion
Denmark remains a highly attractive destination for international construction, offshore, renewable energy, and oil & gas projects. Its organised labour market, strong worker protections, and specialist visa schemes make it easier for businesses to mobilise skilled global talent.
However, navigating Danish immigration requirements can still be complex without the right support. From selecting the correct visa route to preparing compliant documentation, employers must ensure every stage of the process is managed correctly.
With experienced mobilisation support, companies can simplify international hiring, reduce delays, and ensure contractors are fully prepared to begin work in Denmark efficiently and compliantly.
Key Takeaways
- Non-resident workers staying longer than 90 days in Denmark usually require a work permit.
- Denmark offers strong employee benefits, competitive working conditions, and expatriate tax advantages.
- The three primary visa routes are the Fast Track Scheme, Pay Limit Scheme, and Positive List Scheme.
- Employers must prepare documents including passports, contracts, insurance, and qualifications.
- Proper visa planning helps avoid project delays and compliance risks.
Organise a work visa in Denmark with WRS
There’s a lot that goes into securing a visa in Denmark. Thankfully, you can reduce the time and effort involved by utilising our years of experience in the area.
When mobilising your team, we’ll handle the entire process. As we’re fully registered to operate in Denmark, we ensure contractors get paid in the necessary currency – and the payment process is simplified through our online timesheet portal.
Seeking support with global mobilisation in Denmark or elsewhere? Contact our team today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much money is required for a Denmark work visa?
The Denmark work visa application fee is typically around DKK 6,810 for most work permit schemes in 2026. Additional costs may apply for biometrics, document translation, health insurance, and embassy processing.
Applicants may also need sufficient funds to cover:
- Accommodation and living expenses in Denmark
- Travel costs
- Insurance
- Supporting documentation
The exact amount depends on the visa type, duration of stay, and whether family members are included in the application.
Is IELTS needed for Denmark?
No, IELTS is not always required for a Denmark work visa. Many Danish work permit schemes do not officially require IELTS if the employer accepts your English proficiency and the job role does not demand a language certificate.
However, IELTS may still be required for:
- Certain universities or study programs
- Regulated professions
- Residency or immigration applications
- Employers requesting proof of English skills
Which job is high demand in Denmark?
The most in-demand jobs in Denmark are in engineering, IT, healthcare, construction, green energy, and skilled trades due to ongoing labour shortages and major infrastructure and renewable energy projects.
About the Author
Apurva Agrawal is an SEO Specialist at Worldwide Recruitment Solutions (WRS), with three years of experience driving digital growth and visibility within the global recruitment sector.
This guide was developed in collaboration with and verified by Melissa Walsh, Marketing and Brand Manager at WRS, ensuring that all workforce data and service methodologies reflect WRS’s global standards and positioning.
Disclaimer: Worldwide Recruitment Solutions does not provide visa, immigration or taxation advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended and should not be relied upon for visa, immigration or taxation advice. You should consult with a qualified immigration professional or the official government website of the country you’re applying to for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
