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DENMARK – AN ATTRACTIVE PLACE TO FIND WORK

By the Danish Minister for Foreign Af fairs Per Stig Møller and the Minister for Employment Claus Hjort Frederiksen

Minister for Foreign Affairs Per Stig Møller

Minister for Employment Claus Hjort Frederiksen

In recent times, Denmark has gained a reputation as an economic role model. Our strong economic growth and low unemployment has attracted Europe’s attention, which we are naturally pleased to see. The strong growth is generating opportunities for qualified foreign labour, and as a member of the EU, Denmark respects free movement of labour between member states. We value workers from other countries who can help maintain the positive developments in Denmark.

When Denmark opened its labour market to the new EU member states, no compromises were made concerning working conditions. This has given some workers the impression that it is difficult to get a job in Denmark, but it is easier than many might think. The Danish government works continuously on new initiatives to make it attractive for foreign nationals to seek work in Denmark. One of the initiatives already in place is the multi-language website http://www.workimport.dk which offers information on the many job opportunities in Denmark, as well as advice on searching for work. The website gives answers to frequently asked questions e.g. concerning work and residence permits, and can be used to apply for specific jobs. Danish embassies in the EU member states also provide employment-related information.

Denmark has a unique labour market. Collective bargaining between employers and trade unions is applied to many things, where other countries legislate instead. This ensures good salaries and a good working environment, and foreign workers and companies can also join Danish labour market organisations. In Denmark, wages and employment conditions are the same for foreign workers as for Danish workers. And there are further advantages – for example after just three months, foreign workers qualify for access to primary healthcare free of charge.

Job seekers from eastern Europe can stay in Denmark for a period of up to six months on a self-support basis. Once employment has been found, a work and residence permit is then normally required before starting work.

However this requirement is waived if the employer is one of the 2000 companies that have been approved in advance to employ eastern European labour.

Many foreign workers are impressed by the surprisingly informal tone of communication in Danish companies, as well as the culture of independence that is encouraged so that individuals can exert influence on how their work is done. Shifting jobs within a year requires a new work and residence permit, but this requirement does not apply after one year’s continuous work – the objective being to keep new staff for a reasonable length of time. Foreign workers will gain useful experience, which can benefit their homeland when they eventually return.

Denmark has a lot to offer. The country not only has good jobs with good working conditions and good salaries, but also offers something beyond work and wages – a rich variety of experiences for life.