How easy is finding jobs in Denmark for foreigners? What are the most in-demand jobs in Denmark for foreigners in 2023? And what are the immigration pathways and requirements for working in Denmark as a foreigner? This article will answer these questions and provide valuable tips and resources for finding your dream job in Denmark.
Denmark is a small but prosperous country in Northern Europe, known for its high quality of life, social welfare system, and environmental sustainability. Denmark is also a popular destination for foreigners who want to work and live in a stable and innovative society. According to the World Happiness Report 2021, Denmark is the second happiest country after Finland.
The Danish Labor Market
High flexibility, mobility, and social security characterizes the Danish labor market. This means that employers can easily hire and fire workers according to their needs, they can change jobs and careers easily, and both parties are protected by a comprehensive welfare system that provides unemployment benefits, health care, education, and pension.
The Danish labor market is also highly competitive and dynamic, constantly demanding skilled and qualified workers in various sectors. According to the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI), the unemployment rate in Denmark was 4.5% in November 2021, below the EU average of 7.1%. The employment rate was 75.8%, above the EU average of 66.9%.
Due to digitalization, automation, globalization, the aging population, and climate change, the Danish labor market is expected to face some challenges and opportunities in the coming years. These factors will create new demands for skills and competencies, as well as new job opportunities and occupations.
According to SIRI, every six months, they publish two lists of professions experiencing a shortage of qualified workers in Denmark: one for people with higher education and one for skilled workers. These lists are based on the labor market balance received from the Danish Agency for Labor Market and Recruitment (STAR), which analyzes the supply and demand of labor in different sectors and regions.
The Most In-Demand Jobs in Denmark for Foreigners in 2023
Based on the Positive Lists published by SIRI, we can identify some of the most in-demand jobs in Denmark for foreigners :
Various engineers: civil, mechatronics, electrical, mechanical, environmental, and electronics engineers are among the most sought-after professionals in Denmark, especially in sectors such as construction, energy, manufacturing, transportation, and IT. Engineers need a professional bachelor’s or master’s degree in their field of expertise, relevant work experience, and language skills.
Software developers and other IT-related jobs: software developers, web developers, IT consultants, IT architects, data analysts, and data scientists are also highly demanded in Denmark, as digitalization and innovation drive the growth of many industries and services. Software developers and other IT professionals need a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree in computer science or related fields, as well as proficiency in programming languages and tools such as Java, Python, C#, SQL, HTML/CSS/JavaScript, etc.
Life science: biologists, chemists, pharmacists, biotechnologists, and bioengineers are also in high demand in Denmark, especially in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, biomedicine, food, and agriculture. Life science professionals need a master’s degree or a Ph.D.
Health care: doctors, nurses, dentists, veterinarians, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists are among the most needed workers in Denmark, as the aging population and the COVID-19 pandemic have increased the pressure on the healthcare system. Healthcare professionals need to have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in their field of practice.
Teaching and education: teachers, lecturers, researchers, and Ph.D. students are also sought-after in Denmark, especially in social sciences, humanities, natural sciences, engineering, and IT.
Business and finance: managers, accountants, auditors, financial analysts, and business consultants are also in demand in Denmark, especially in sectors such as banking, insurance, accounting, and consulting. Business and finance professionals need to have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in their field of specialization.
Metalworking and mechanical engineering: welders, metalworkers, machinists, and mechanics are also needed in Denmark, especially in sectors such as manufacturing, construction, and transportation. Metalworking and mechanical engineering workers need vocational education or training in their field of work.
Different Immigration Pathways to Denmark
If you are looking for jobs in Denmark for foreigners, there are several immigration pathways that you can consider. These include:
The Pay Limit Scheme
This scheme is designed for highly skilled workers with a job offer in Denmark and a salary meeting specific minimum requirements. The minimum salary requirement for the Pay Limit Scheme in 2023 is expected to be around DKK 436,000 per year.
The Positive List
This scheme is for workers with a job offer in Denmark in a field with a shortage of skilled workers. The Positive List is updated regularly and includes occupations such as engineers, IT specialists, and healthcare professionals.
The Start-Up Visa
This scheme is for entrepreneurs who want to start a business in Denmark. To be eligible, you must have a business plan approved by a Danish business incubator and be able to support yourself financially for the first year of your stay.
By exploring these opportunities and immigration pathways, you may be able to find a fulfilling career and a high quality of life in Denmark.