Recruitment of foreign nationals to be strengthened

IMPACT — MEDIUM

The Danish government passed a bill to strengthen its ability to recruit and retain foreign workers, which takes effect on April 1.

Key Points:

• Danish companies will be required to have only 10 full-time employees (decreased from 20) to qualify for the Fast-track Scheme.
• Employers will be able to hire foreign nationals under the new Supplementary Pay-limit Scheme for up to five years if:
  • The job has a gross base salary of at least 375,000 DKK per year (about US$54,000).
  • Gross unemployment does not exceed 3.75%.
  • The job was posted on Jobnet and EURES for at least two weeks.
• Foreign companies that intend to open a new branch in Denmark will be able to use the Start-up Scheme.
• Foreign students who graduate with at least a bachelor’s degree will no longer be eligible for the Establishment Card Scheme but will automatically receive a jobseeking permit valid for three years to live and work in the country.

Additional Information: Danish authorities plan to add occupations to the Positive List; all jobs on the list will remain there for at least two years.

BAL Analysis: Danish authorities intend to attract and retain more foreign talent by adjusting the requirements for the Fast-track Scheme, introducing the Supplementary Pay-limit Scheme and jobseeking permit, and amending the Start-up Scheme.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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