DENMARK – New work permit scheme for certified employers with collective agreements.

August 8, 2025

By: Hannah In-Chan, Director, Newland Chase Advisory

This new work permit scheme is a welcome development, offering greater flexibility and efficiency for Danish companies with Collective Agreements looking to access international talent.

The Danish authorities have announced the launch of a new work permit scheme aimed at simplifying the employment of international workers by Danish companies operating under collective agreements. The scheme, due to take effect in January 2026, is designed to expedite onboarding processes and enhance employer access to global talent.

One of the key features of the scheme is that eligible foreign employees may commence employment immediately after submitting a work permit application and providing biometric data, thereby significantly reducing hiring and onboarding delays.

Work permits will be granted for up to three years, with the possibility of renewal upon meeting eligibility requirements. Accompanying family members may also be eligible to reside in Denmark under this scheme.

Eligibility criteria for sponsoring companies and international employees.

For sponsoring companies.

To qualify under the new scheme, Danish companies must obtain certification from the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI). Certification is initially valid for three years and may be renewed in four-year intervals thereafter. Employers must meet the following criteria:

• Operational in Denmark for a minimum of two years
• Submission of annual financial reports in accordance with Danish legislation
• Provision of a certificate from the Danish Business Authority confirming:
  • Full compliance with tax obligations
  • No criminal convictions
  • No ongoing bankruptcy proceedings
• Submission of a sworn declaration confirming adherence to an applicable collective agreement
• Demonstration of trade union access or employee representation
• No fines within the past two years for underpayment of foreign workers
• A minimum of 10 full-time employees employed in Denmark
• No unresolved legal labor disputes
• No outstanding workplace safety violations
• No more than two immigration-related violations within the previous 12 months
• Notification of the relevant trade union regarding new hires and salary details, typically via assigned trade union representatives

For international employees.

To be eligible under the scheme, foreign nationals must meet the following requirements:

• Hold citizenship from one of the following countries: Albania, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, India, Japan, Malaysia, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Singapore, Ukraine, United Kingdom, United States of America
• Be offered a full-time position covered by an applicable collective agreement
• Receive a minimum annual salary of DKK 300,000
• Have their salary paid into a Danish bank account

Newland Chase will continue to monitor developments and provide further updates. Contact us today for support with your corporate immigration program.

This immigration update is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal or scenario-specific advice. Furthermore, it is important to note that immigration announcements are subject to sudden and unexpected changes. Readers are encouraged to reach out to Newland Chase for any case- or company-specific assessments.