Working in Denmark
For transparency, AI has been used during the generation of this content, with every care taken to verify its accuracy.
Average Salary
Denmark’s overall earnings level is high, with full-time employees taking home an average gross salary of around DKK 51,675 ($8,018) per month. This figure varies depending on sector and level of seniority – for example, those working in the engineering sector can expect a starting salary of DKK 45,100 – 47,400 ($6,998 – $7,354) per month, rising to roughly DKK 68,500 ($10,628) plus bonuses as they progress in their careers.
General information
Currency
Danish Krone (DKK)
Official language
Danish
Conversational languages
English German French Swedish Norwegian
Time zone
Winter period: Central European Time (UTC+01:00) Summer period: Central European Summer Time (UTC+02:00)
Common types of Employment or Contracting
Denmark offers options for both traditional employment and contracting.
Common types of employment
Common types of contracting
Already secured a job overseas?
If you have secured an assignment but are unsure of where to start with setting up as a Freelancer or B2B contractor, please feel free to reach out to our International team for assistance.
Living in Denmark
You can expect a high quality of life when living in Denmark, but it comes with a correspondingly high cost of living. Living in large cities like Copenhagen can be very expensive, while smaller cities such as Aarhus, Odense or Aalborg tend to be more affordable. The country is relatively diverse, with a growing international community drawn to its strong social safety net, excellent public services, and family-friendly policies.
- The average cost of a weekly grocery shop for a small family is DKK 2,000 – 2,300 ($310 - $357)
- Monthly rent costs around DKK 9,000 – 18,000 ($1,397 - $2,793) for a 2-bedroom apartment, depending on the city and neighbourhood
- Public nursery (from ages 0-3 years) can cost up to DKK 3,900 ($605) per month, and kindergarten (3-6 years) costs around DKK 2,317 ($359.58) without lunch or DKK 3,120 ($484.20) including lunch
- Fuel prices are approximately DKK 14.54 ($2.26) per litre of petrol and DKK 14.07 ($2.18) per litre of diesel
In Denmark, vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road. EU, EEA and Swiss nationals can usually use their existing driver’s licence, although those staying longer than 185 days may need to register it with Danish authorities. Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals must exchange their foreign licence for a Danish one, or pass Danish theory and practical tests if their licence isn’t recognised. Short-term visitors can drive with an international driving permit alongside their original licence for up to 90 days.
Weather in Denmark
Denmark has a temperate, coastal climate with mild summers and relatively cold, windy winters. In summer, daytime temperatures typically range between 18 - 23°C, occasionally reaching 25 - 28°C during warm spells. Winters are much colder, with average temperatures usually between -1 and 4°C, though cold snaps can bring lows of -5°C or below. Rain is common year-round, and winter months often feel colder due to strong winds.
Language and integration support
Denmark offers strong language and integration support for newcomers. Municipalities provide free Danish language courses at multiple levels, and non-formal programmes such as the Danish Red Cross’s Sprogland offer conversational practice in social settings. In addition, civic integration courses and free recognition of foreign qualifications help expats adapt to Danish society and work life.
For any translation needs - especially those required for work permit or visa applications - our dedicated Languages team is ready to support you. They provide accurate, timely translations and can guide you through the process to ensure all necessary documents meet the required standards.
Our services in Denmark
Across the globe, we support energy and engineering companies with the international recruitment and global mobilisation solutions they need to extend their capability and grow their businesses.
Find out about our international services
Global mobility
NRL Recruitment simplifies international employee relocation with seamless global mobility services. From visa assistance to cultural onboarding, we ensure your staff transitions smoothly across borders, minimising disruption and maximising productivity.
Payroll solutions
Managing payroll across multiple countries can be complex, but our payroll solutions make it simple. We handle accurate, compliant compensation for your global workforce, ensuring employees are paid correctly and on time, every time.
Global Employer of Record
With our global Employer of Record services, you can legally employ staff overseas without establishing local entities. We manage compliance, contracts, and HR administration, giving you the freedom to expand globally with confidence and ease.
International recruitment
Finding the right talent worldwide is effortless with our international recruitment solutions. We connect your business with top-tier professionals, managing the end-to-end hiring process so you can focus on growth and strategic priorities.
