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05 Jan

Denmark to allow some foreigners to work in the country without residence or work permits

Denmark is making it easier for some foreign workers to work in the country. On November 17, Denmark implemented new regulations enabling certain foreign nationals to work within its borders for short durations without the need for a residence and work permit.To qualify for this exemption, applicants must be employed by a foreign company affiliated with a Danish establishment, and the Danish company should have a workforce of at least 50 employees. This rule is specifically applicable to individuals engaged in management or high/intermediate-level knowledge work.

Apart from this category, the Danish Immigration Service has outlined other groups of foreign nationals, excluding EU/EEA or Nordic citizens, who may be exempt from the mandatory work permit based on their professional field or specific circumstances. These exemptions cover various scenarios:

General Exemptions: This includes foreign diplomats and their families, household staff, as well as staff on international trains, vehicles, and Danish commercial ships adhering to specific port and shipyard visit limits.

Guest Teachers (Up to Five Days): Teachers operating under the Ministry of Higher Education and Science or the Ministry of Culture institutions, teaching for a duration of up to five days within 180 days, won't require a work permit.

Artists, Musicians, Performers, and Essential Staff: Those playing a significant role in a public artistic event lasting less than 14 days, along with necessary supporting staff, may qualify for exemption.

Board Members (Up to 40 Days):  Board members performing their professional duties in Denmark for a maximum of 40 days within a calendar year are not required to obtain a work permit.

Professionals with Special Work Assignments (Up to 90 Days): Professionals, including researchers and foreign company representatives on business trips, can perform specific tasks without a work permit for a stay of up to 90 days.

However, citizens of countries with a visa requirement still need a visitor’s visa. Additionally, individuals holding a work permit for a specific job but seeking to teach at a specific institution or work at another company must apply for a permit for sideline employment.

In September, the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI) announced a change in their application processing, utilizing income information from the Confederation of Danish Employers to assess if the offered position aligns with Danish salary standards.