The Danish government is set to unveil a landmark plan on Monday that will simplify the process of obtaining a work permit in Denmark for individuals from 16 non-EU countries.
According to local media outlets, the initiative is designed to address labor shortages and promote international workforce participation by lowering the salary threshold under the Pay Limit Scheme (PLS).
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Major Changes to Denmark’s Work Permit System
Denmark’s new work permit policy includes lowering income thresholds for applicants from 16 non-EU nations, expanding eligible employment sectors, and enforcing collective bargaining agreements to ensure fair labor conditions. These changes aim to simplify access and help resolve labor gaps in lower-income fields.
1. Pay Limit Scheme Income Threshold to Be Reduced
A key component of the reform is a major revision of Denmark’s Pay Limit Scheme—a popular pathway for non-EU citizens seeking employment in Denmark. Currently, applicants must have a job offer with an annual salary of at least $81,381 to qualify.
Under the new proposal, the minimum salary requirement will be reduced to $47,496.91 per year. This adjustment will open doors to more industries and positions for skilled international professionals.
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2. Which Nations Are Affected?
The revised income threshold will apply exclusively to nationals of the following 16 non-EU countries:
- United Kingdom
- United States
- Singapore
- Japan
- Canada
- China
- Australia
- Brazil
- India
- Montenegro
- Malaysia
- Serbia
- Albania
- North Macedonia
- Moldova
- Ukraine
It’s important to note that EU citizens already enjoy the freedom to work in Denmark without a permit, so this policy is tailored to attract skilled talent from outside the EU.
3. Changes to the Supplementary Pay Limit Scheme
In addition to the core Pay Limit Scheme, Denmark operates a Supplementary Pay Limit Scheme for industries facing acute labor shortages. Currently, the minimum income requirement under this program is $65,679 annually. The new plan reduces that threshold to $47,478.20.
4. Employee Protections and Employer Conditions
To prevent exploitation and wage dumping, employers participating in the new scheme will be required to sign a collective bargaining agreement with a Danish trade union if one isn’t already in place.
Additionally, the updated program requires foreign workers to carry valid identification while working in Denmark.
Simplified Process for International Workers
To qualify under the revised Pay Limit Scheme, applicants must secure a job offer from a Danish employer that meets the new salary requirement. Upon arrival, permit holders will be required to carry proper ID.
Modest Projections, Big Expectations
The Danish government estimates that the changes will attract approximately 550 additional foreign workers. While modest compared to the existing international workforce of over 400,000, industry leaders expect actual figures to grow significantly.
Employer associations welcome the reform as a positive move toward resolving workforce shortages and boosting Denmark’s global competitiveness.
What This Means for International Workers
If you’re a skilled worker from one of the eligible non-EU nations, this could be your chance to live and work in Denmark with fewer financial barriers. The revised plan offers more accessible income criteria while clearly outlining employer responsibilities.
In summary, Denmark is making its labor market more open and responsive by aligning immigration rules with workforce needs. This move goes beyond statistics—it reflects a strategic effort to ensure long-term economic growth and fair job access. If Denmark is on your radar, now could be the ideal time to explore new opportunities.
