Denmark Skilled Worker Jobs 2026 – Positive List Expansion Announced

Denmark, one of Europe’s most innovation-driven nations, has released its July Positive List update, offering expanded immigration opportunities to foreign professionals and skilled workers.

The Positive List is Denmark’s fast-track residence and work permit scheme for occupations experiencing local labor shortages. In this latest update, over 40 new occupations have been added across two main categories: the Higher Education Positive List and the Skilled Work Positive List.

Occupations:

The Higher Education Positive List is for foreign nationals who hold a university degree and have relevant work experience. In the July update, 28 new roles were added, increasing the total to 190 occupations.

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New Additions:

• Head of Finances / Logistics
• Hardware Developers
• Movie, TV & Animation Designers
• Business Intelligence Managers
• Management Consultants
• IT Engineers
• Communication Officers

Note: No occupations were removed from this list in the July update.

Skilled Work Occupations:

The Skilled Work Positive List is for people with vocational or technical qualifications, including tradespeople and technicians. The list has grown from 48 to 65 occupations with the addition of 17 new roles.

Jobs Include:

• Blacksmiths
• Electricity Distribution Technicians
• Service Technicians
• Electronics Mechanics

Removed Occupations:

• IT Supporters
• Webmasters
• Secretaries
• Finance Assistants
• Welders

If your job was removed, you may still be eligible to apply through other visa schemes.

Benefits:

If your job is listed on either Positive List, you can apply for a residence and work permit in Denmark through a simplified process with generally faster processing and fewer barriers.

• Fast-Track Visa Processing
  • Quicker approval for residence and work permits compared to standard applications.
• No Labor Market Test Required
  • Employers do not need to prove they couldn’t find a local employee for the job.
• Wide Range of Eligible Occupations
  • Expansion to 65 occupations now includes more trades and technical roles.
• High Visa Approval Rate
  • Applications under the Positive List often receive favorable decisions.
• Long-Term Residence Permits
  • Permits granted for up to 4 years, with the possibility of renewal.
• Eligibility to Bring Family
  • Spouse/partner and children under 18 can be included in your application.
• Full Work Rights for Spouses
  • Spouses can work full-time in Denmark without restrictions.
• Access to Public Services
  • Approved applicants receive a CPR number, enabling access to healthcare, education, and social benefits.
• Pathway to Permanent Residency
  • Time spent in Denmark under a Positive List permit counts toward permanent residence eligibility.
• Inclusive of Skilled Trades
  • Welcomes non-degree holders in technical and vocational fields (e.g., electricians, blacksmiths, mechanics).
• Simplified Online Application
  • Digital submission through SIRI’s official portal with clear instructions.
• Opportunity to Build a Career in Denmark
  • Work in one of Europe’s most stable, innovative, and worker-friendly economies.
• English-Friendly Work Environment
  • Many Danish companies operate in English, easing language barriers.

How to Apply for Denmark Skilled Worker Jobs 2026?

Step 1: Get a Job Offer

You must receive a formal job offer from a Danish employer for a position listed on the Positive List. The job must:

• Be full-time (minimum 30 hours/week)
• Offer a salary in line with Danish labor standards
• Be confirmed with a signed contract

View the latest job lists here:
https://www.nyidanmark.dk/pl-PL/You-want-to-apply/Work/The-Positive-Lists

Step 2: Gather the Required Documents

Prepare the following:

• Valid passport
• Signed employment contract
• Educational certificates (translated and notarized if needed)
• Updated CV
• Proof of accommodation in Denmark
• Completed visa application form (available via SIRI’s website)

Step 3: Submit Your Application Online

Use the official Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI) portal:

https://www.nyidanmark.dk/en-GB/Contact-us/Contact-SIRI

When applying, choose the appropriate category:

• Higher Education Positive List
• Skilled Work Positive List

You can apply from your home country or from within Denmark (if you hold a valid visa or permit)

Step 4: Include Your Family in the Application

You can apply for residence permits for your spouse or cohabiting partner and children under 18.

Required for family members:

• Passports
• Marriage and/or birth certificates
• Proof of health insurance
• Evidence of financial support (you must demonstrate you can support your family during the initial period)

Spouses of Positive List workers are allowed to work full-time without restrictions in Denmark.

Step 5: Wait for Processing

• Standard processing time is 1 to 3 months
• Approval may arrive before your residence card is issued
• Residence permits are typically valid for up to 4 years and can be extended

Step 6: Register Upon Arrival

Once you enter Denmark:

• Register at your local Citizen Service (Borgerservice) within 5 days
• Obtain your CPR number (personal registration number)
• Receive your health card and tax ID

Children can enroll in school, and adults can access healthcare and public services after registration.

Conclusion:

Denmark’s July Positive List update offers more opportunities than ever for skilled and educated foreigners to build a career—and a life—in one of Europe’s most welcoming countries. Whether you’re in tech, engineering, media, or a skilled trade, this could be your pathway to Danish residency.

Official Website for Updates and Applications:
🔗 www.nyidanmark.dk

Frequently Asked Questions: