IMPACT – MEDIUM

Denmark has implemented a host of changes that will affect employers sponsoring non-EU/EEA foreign workers.

The following changes took effect Jan. 1:

  • The minimum salary for non-EU/EEA workers under the Pay Limit and Fast-track schemes has increased. The new salary minimum is DKK 436,000 per year (about US$64,800 or €58,345). The new minimum applies to all applications filed on or after Jan. 1, and represents a 2.1% increase over the 2019 minimum of DKK 426,985 per year. For work permit extensions, employers may continue to use salaries from the initial application.
  • A new Positive List has taken effect, identifying jobs for which there is a labor shortage. Officials added 18 jobs and removed 35 jobs from the list. Among those added were research and development manager, architect, hospital doctor and web developer. Among those removed were IT manager, IT engineer, finance manager and marketing manager. An overview of all of the changes to the Positive List is available here.
  • Immigration fees have been reduced. The fee for work permits under the Pay Limit, Fast-track and Positive List schemes is now DKK 2,990. The application fee for family members who are accompanying employees is DKK 1,470.

Analysis & Comments: Employers should review the changes and make sure they are meeting new salary thresholds. Employers are reminded that applicants can only apply for a work permit through the Positive List Scheme if their job appears on the new version of the list, which will remain in effect through June 30. The reduced immigration fees are a welcome development. A full list of the new fees is available here.

Source: Deloitte. Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (“DTTL”), its global network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL (also referred to as “Deloitte Global”) and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL does not provide services to clients. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more. Deloitte Legal means the legal practices of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited member firms or their affiliates that provide legal services. For legal, regulatory and other reasons, not all member firms provide legal services. This communication contains general information only, and none of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, its member firms or their related entities (collectively, the “Deloitte network”) is, by means of this communication, rendering professional advice or services. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your finances or your business, you should consult a qualified professional adviser. No entity in the Deloitte network shall be responsible for any loss whatsoever sustained by any person who relies on this communication. © 2020. For information, contact Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited.