Denmark’s Positive Lists for Skilled Work and Higher Education jobs offer 162 new opportunities for foreign workers starting January 1, 2025. Learn about eligibility, application steps, and benefits.
Denmark Updates Positive Lists: 162 Jobs Open for Foreign Workers in 2025
Denmark’s updated Positive Lists for Skilled Work and Higher Education jobs, effective from January 1, 2025, offer exciting opportunities for foreign professionals. These lists highlight labor shortages in specific professions and create a pathway for highly educated individuals to obtain residence and work permits in Denmark. Whether you have a skilled profession or a university-level qualification, Denmark welcomes foreign talent to meet its growing employment needs.
What is the Positive List?
The Positive List is a dynamic scheme designed to attract skilled labor and university-qualified professionals to Denmark. This list is updated biannually—on January 1 and July 1—by the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI). It consists of two categories:
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Skilled Work | Occupations requiring practical skills in shortage sectors. |
| Higher Education | Jobs requiring a university degree, in high-demand fields. |
Foreign workers whose job is listed on the Positive List may apply for a work and residence permit, provided they meet the educational and professional requirements for the role.
Key Changes in the January 2025 Update
The January 2025 update introduces some notable changes:
- Skilled Work: The number of job titles under the Skilled Work category has been reduced to 48 due to fewer labor shortages in these professions.
- Higher Education: The Higher Education category has expanded to include 162 job titles, reflecting the growing demand for educated professionals in specific fields.
Eligibility Criteria for Foreign Workers
To qualify for a work and residence permit under the Positive List, foreign workers must meet certain requirements:
- Relevant Education: Your qualifications must match the specific job title listed. For higher education jobs, a university degree in the relevant field is required.
- Employment Duration: Work permits are typically granted for up to four years, depending on the duration of the employment contract.
Salary Standards and Employment Conditions
Effective January 1, 2025, Denmark has introduced updated salary requirements for foreign workers applying for positions not covered by collective agreements or employer organizations. To be eligible for a residence and work permit, your job must offer a minimum salary of approximately DKK 71,000 per month, ensuring that foreign workers are compensated fairly in line with Danish standards.
Benefits of the Positive List Scheme
The Positive List scheme plays a vital role in addressing Denmark’s labor shortages. For foreign workers, it offers a streamlined process for obtaining work and residence permits while enjoying competitive salaries and employment benefits. This initiative supports both the Danish economy and the integration of international professionals.
How to Apply for a Residence and Work Permit in Denmark
To successfully apply for a residence and work permit under Denmark’s Positive List, follow these steps:
- Secure a Job Offer
Ensure that your job is on the Positive List for Skilled Work or Higher Education. Verify that your qualifications align with the job requirements. - Prepare Required Documents
Gather the following essential documents:- Valid passport
- Educational qualifications
- Employment contract/job offer letter
- Relevant work experience proof
- Salary confirmation, if applicable
- Complete the Application Form
Visit SIRI’s official website and select the application form for the Positive List category. - Submit Your Application
Apply online via SIRI’s digital portal or at a Danish embassy/consulate in your home country. - Attend Biometrics Appointment
Schedule and attend an appointment to submit your biometrics (fingerprints and photo). - Wait for Processing
Residence and work permit processing times may vary, so check for updates on SIRI’s website. - Receive Your Permit
Once approved, collect your residence and work permit, allowing you to live and work in Denmark under the Positive List scheme.
Final Thoughts
Denmark’s updates to the Positive Lists in January 2025 open new doors for foreign professionals, especially those with higher education degrees. With competitive salaries and a simplified permit process, Denmark remains an attractive destination for skilled talent. This initiative not only supports Denmark’s economic growth but also fosters the integration of international workers into its workforce.
By addressing labor shortages with a diverse range of opportunities, Denmark is positioning itself as a global hub for skilled professionals seeking career growth and quality living standards.
