The Positive List is one of the most-used routes to a work permit in Denmark. It is a list of occupations deemed to have labour shortages, making it easier for third-country nationals to obtain work permits.
Two lists — two target groups
Positive List for persons with higher education
Positions typically requiring at least a bachelor’s degree. Examples include:
- IT specialists (developers, security experts, data analysts).
- Doctors and nurses.
- Engineers in energy, construction, and production.
- Teachers in certain subjects and regions.
Positive List for skilled labour
Positions requiring vocational education or equivalent:
- Carpenters, bricklayers, blacksmiths, and other tradespeople.
- Chefs and restaurant staff.
- Care staff and social and health workers.
- Certain agricultural and horticultural positions.
How do you qualify?
To obtain a work permit via the Positive List you must:
- Have a concrete job offer from a Danish employer for a listed position.
- Have the qualifications required for the position (education, certifications, experience).
- Receive pay and employment terms matching customary Danish conditions — see the salary requirement.
- Submit the application to SIRI with documentation.
The list changes semi-annually
The Danish Agency for Labour Market and Recruitment updates the list on 1 January and 1 July based on current labour market needs. That means your position may be added or removed between updates. The date that applies to your case is the application date.
Processing and timing
Processing via the Positive List typically takes 1-3 months. For certified companies, the Fast-Track Scheme can be used for faster processing.
Alternative schemes if your position is not listed
- Pay Limit Scheme — independent of position, just requires high enough salary.
- The new collective-agreement-based scheme.
- Researcher and specialist scheme for highly specialised workers.
Need help assessing which scheme suits you best? Contact us.
Considering applying for a work permit?
We have more than 10 years of experience in Danish immigration law and have won more than 150 appeal cases at the Immigration Appeals Board. Get a non-binding first assessment of your case — we respond within 24 hours.