In a major move to attract skilled professionals from around the world, Denmark has updated its Positive List as of April 2025, adding a broad range of high-demand occupations across sectors such as healthcare, IT, engineering, education, and skilled trades. This update streamlines the process for foreign professionals to obtain a fast-tracked work and residence permit in Denmark.
Compared to other immigration destinations like the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand, Denmark’s system is now among the most accessible and efficient in Europe.
While many countries are tightening immigration policies, Denmark offers a transparent, efficient, and family-friendly immigration process, especially for those working in professions listed on the Positive List. Key benefits include:
Faster visa processing for in-demand roles
Outstanding work-life balance
Free healthcare and education
Family reunification options
The Positive List is an official register of occupations experiencing labor shortages in Denmark. If you receive a job offer in one of these roles, you can apply for a residence and work permit under the Positive List Scheme.
There are two categories:
Positive List for Higher Education – Jobs requiring a university degree
Positive List for Skilled Work – Technical, vocational, or trade-based jobs
The update introduces many new roles across diverse fields. Notable additions under the Skilled Work category include:
Healthcare & Personal Care:
Social and Health Care Assistants (homes & institutions)
Audiology Assistant
Engineering & Technical Roles:
Construction Technicians
Medico Technicians
Agricultural Technicians
Production Technologists
Trades & Skilled Labor:
Carpenters
Bricklayers
Auto Mechanics
Electricians
Industrial Technicians
Tailors
Administrative & Business Roles:
Bookkeepers
Sales Consultants
Legal Secretaries
Import/Export Specialists
Real Estate Agents & Administrators
Service Sector:
Chefs
Hairdressers
Office Assistants
Agriculture & Environment:
Farmers
Greenkeepers
Landscape Gardeners
Agricultural Assistants
The complete updated list is available on Denmark’s official immigration portal.
If your job offer matches one of the listed roles, you can apply through one of the following visa schemes:
Positive List Scheme
Valid for up to 4 years
Offers a pathway to permanent residency
Fast-Track Scheme (for certified employers)
Expedited processing
Allows multiple entries and quicker start dates
Pay Limit Scheme
For high-income jobs not on the Positive List
Requires a minimum salary of DKK 375,000/year (~€50,000)
Researcher Visa
For academic professionals
Includes relocation support and family residence permits
Denmark has introduced a minimum salary threshold of DKK 375,000 annually for most foreign work permits. This measure ensures fair compensation and aligns wages with Danish labor standards.
Yes, Denmark supports family reunification:
Spouses or registered partners can apply for residence permits
Children under 18 are also eligible
Spouses are typically allowed to work
This makes Denmark not only a career destination but a viable long-term home for families.
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