Denmark has announced updated wage statistics for foreign workers applying for jobs through the Positive List for Skilled Work. Starting February 20, 2025, these new wage requirements will be used to assess whether job offers for skilled foreign workers meet Denmark’s standards. This change impacts both first-time applications and applications for extension under the various schemes provided by the Danish government.
The Positive List includes jobs where there is a shortage of qualified professionals in Denmark. If you have been offered a job in one of these professions, you can apply for a Danish residence and work permit. However, it’s essential to understand how these new wage statistics will affect your application.
What Is the Positive List for Skilled Work?
The Positive List for Skilled Work is a list of professions in Denmark experiencing a shortage of qualified workers. To qualify for a Danish residence permit through this list, applicants must meet specific criteria, including offering a salary that aligns with Danish wage standards. The updated wage statistics play a critical role in this assessment.
Key Updates on the New Wage Statistics for Foreign Workers
The new wage statistics released by SIRI (The Danish Immigration Agency) will be applied starting February 20, 2025. Here’s how these updates will impact your application:
- Wage Alignment with Danish Standards
Your salary and employment terms must meet Denmark’s national standards. This includes your salary, holiday entitlements, and terms of notice, which cannot be inferior to the Danish standards for your professional field. - Salary Requirement for Positive List Jobs
To ensure your job offer meets Danish standards, SIRI will assess your salary offer based on updated statistics compiled by Statistics Denmark. All applications submitted on or after February 20, 2025 will be assessed with the new wage data. - No Inclusion of Uncertain Salary Income
Commissions or bonuses are generally not included in the salary calculation for the application. Only fixed salary and certain types of payments (like pension schemes and paid holiday allowance) will be considered. - Danish Bank Account Requirement
Most applications filed after January 1, 2021, require that the salary be paid into a Danish bank account. This adds another layer of compliance to the application process.
Salary and Employment Terms: Key Considerations
The new wage statistics also reinforce the importance of meeting salary standards. Here’s how SIRI evaluates applications:
- Collective Agreement Coverage: If your job is covered by a collective agreement, SIRI will usually assume your salary meets Danish standards.
- Salary Threshold: For applications not covered by a collective agreement, the salary will need to be assessed, with a benchmark of DKK 74,958.
Important Conditions for Residence Permits
In addition to meeting the wage requirements, there are other important conditions that must be met for approval under the Positive List for Skilled Work:
| Condition | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Employer’s Educational Obligations | Your employer must meet educational obligations regarding apprentice training. |
| Læreplads-AUB Coverage | Ensure your employer is covered by Læreplads-AUB (Employers’ Training Contribution). |
| Valid Job Offer | You must have a valid job offer in a skilled profession listed on the Positive List. |
How Will the New Wage Statistics Impact Your Application?
If you have a job offer in a skilled profession on the Positive List, it’s crucial to make sure that your salary meets the updated requirements. Here’s what you need to do to ensure your application is successful:
- Review Your Salary Offer: Make sure that the salary offered corresponds to the new wage statistics.
- Check Employer’s Compliance: Ensure your employer is covered by Læreplads-AUB to fulfill apprenticeship training obligations.
- Submit Your Application Before February 20, 2025: If your job offer is already valid but you want to be assessed under the previous wage statistics, submit your application before the new statistics take effect.
Preparing for the New Wage Statistics
Starting February 20, 2025, all applications for the Positive List for Skilled Work will be assessed using Denmark’s new wage statistics. These updated wage figures are a key part of ensuring that foreign workers are compensated fairly according to Danish standards.
If you plan to apply or renew your work and residence permit under the Positive List for Skilled Work, it’s essential to understand the new salary criteria and ensure that your employer meets the necessary requirements. By staying informed and preparing your application according to the new guidelines, you can streamline the process and increase your chances of success.
Stay up to date with the latest Denmark immigration changes, and make sure to check the updated Positive List and salary guidelines for a smooth transition to working in Denmark.
FAQs
Q1: What is the Positive List for Skilled Work?
A: It is a list of jobs in Denmark with a shortage of qualified professionals, where foreign workers can apply for a residence and work permit.
Q2: When will the new wage statistics come into effect?
A: The new wage statistics will apply to all applications submitted on or after February 20, 2025.
Q3: How will the new wage statistics affect my application?
A: Your salary must meet the updated wage statistics for it to align with Danish standards. Applications submitted after February 20, 2025, will be assessed based on these new figures.
Q4: What other conditions must my employer meet?
A: Your employer must fulfill apprenticeship training obligations and be covered by Læreplads-AUB (Employer Training Contribution).
