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COUNTRY

Denmark

This content is for informational purposes only. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this content. It is not legal advice and shall not be relied on as such.

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Currency

kr (DKK)

Work Hours

37/week

Denmark is a northern European country spread across more than 400 islands, about 70 of which are inhabited, and a small peninsula on the European mainland, directly north of Germany. It is west of Sweden and separated from Norway to the north by the Skagerrak strait. Despite its small size and population, Denmark is well known for its high degree of political and economic freedom, high quality of life, and robust economy. It has been a member of the EU since 1973, although it continues to use the Danish krone as its currency, rather than the euro. Denmark is a major exporter of meat, fish, dairy, and other agricultural products. It also has highly developed chemical, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology industries and is a world leader in renewable energy. Trade and transport are also important parts of the Danish economy; Denmark is one of the largest shipping operators in the world.

An employment contract in Denmark should be written. Employees must receive a written statement of the material terms of their employment within one month of beginning work. It must contain both parties’ addresses, salary, workplace location, employee benefits, work hours, start date, notice period, and end date if the contract is for temporary work.

The standard workweek in Denmark is 37 hours per week, five days a week. Employees are required to be given at least one full day of rest throughout the week. The average workweek is capped at 48 hours over a four-month period. Danish law does not limit overtime or require overtime pay.

The employment contract or a collective bargaining agreement sets an employee’s sick leave in Denmark as well as sick pay. Salaried employees receive 30 days of sick leave fully paid by their employer. If the sick leave is for more than 14 days, the employer can require the employee to provide a doctor's certificate. If the sick leave lasts for 120 days, the employee can terminate the employment contract.

Female employees receive 28 weeks of maternity leave in Denmark and must take at least two weeks before the due date. Male employees and co-parents receive 24 weeks of leave after birth. Single parents are entitled to 46 weeks of leave.

Denmark does not have a national minimum wage. Collective bargaining agreements set minimum wages in many industries. Bonuses are common.

Employees receive 25 days of paid annual leave in Denmark, which can be used as it is accrued.

In Denmark, the public holidays are:

  • New Year's Day

  • Maundy Thursday

  • Good Friday

  • Easter Monday

  • Labor Day / May Day

  • Great Prayer Day

  • Ascension Day

  • Constitution Day

  • Whit Monday

  • Christmas Day

  • 2nd Christmas Day

Denmark provides universal healthcare.

The termination notice period in Denmark is one to six months, depending on an employee's years of service. The employer must provide written notice. Salaried employees receive up to three months' severance pay, depending on years of service.

  • Local Laws & Regulations

    We understand that local laws and regulations change and sourcing an accurate reference guide is not easy. Our data is researched and verified by our team of local international Employment Attorneys, HR and Benefit Professionals and Tax Accountants through our Atlas team and consultants, to ensure information up-to-date and accurate.

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