The Danish Immigration Service states that they will issue a residence permit if the visitor has close relatives in Denmark or if he is granted asylum. This permit usually will allow the foreigner to work. The initial permit is temporary and may be extended. In time, the visitor can apply for a permanent permit.
Americans wishing to work in Denmark must obtain a work permit. Denmark grants work permits based on workforce considerations to grant its own citizens ample opportunity to find employment first.
Several plans are available to help qualified persons obtain residence and work permits in Denmark. Americans who fit certain categories will find an easier time obtaining work and residence permits. For example, employees of a corporation can be stationed in the Danish subsidiary, parent or sister company of the corporation. Researchers, athletes, religious workers and trainees also have a fast track for work and residence permits.
For example, there is a so-called "Positive List" of employment areas in which there is a present shortage of Danish citizens to fill them. Examples of these professions include construction, information technology and telecommunications, management, academics, social and religious work, healthcare positions, shipping, storage and sales. The list is periodically updated and job seekers should check with the immigration service to see if they qualify.
Likewise, if a Danish employer offers someone a job with annual compensation above DKK 375,000, about $73,500, per year, he will obtain a work permit more easily. There must be a job contract in writing, and some positions, such as doctors, require Danish National Board of Health authorization.
People that undergo an evaluation based on a point system may be granted a green card, which is a three-year residence permit for the purpose of finding work in Denmark. Points are assessed based on education, language skills, professional experience, age and adaptability. In addition, card holders must be able to support themselves for the first year in Denmark and have health insurance coverage until they are covered by the Danish national health insurance.
Entrepreneurs are welcome to start a business in Denmark as long as there is Danish business interest in the enterprise. Self-employed people must provide sufficient documentation that they have enough financial resources to run the business, and that they themselves are integral to establishing the business. Exceptions to this are restaurants and retail shops. If the business changes considerably or is closed and a new one started, a new residence and work permit are required.
Diplomats, some performing artists, some citizens of Turkey and certain people in the transportation profession are exempt form the work and residence permit requirements.
