Thousands of international students graduate from Danish universities every year, but only some stay in the country. Many are unaware of how straightforward the transition from study permit to work permit can actually be.
Step 1: Apply for the establishment card (job-seeking stay)
As a recent graduate from a Danish higher education programme, you can get up to 3 years of job-seeking stay (the establishment card) — without needing a concrete job offer. During this period you can:
- Work without hourly limits.
- Run a self-employed business.
- Prepare a proper work permit application.
The application is filed with SIRI before your study permit expires.
Step 2: Find a job that meets work permit requirements
While on the establishment card you can search for a job that qualifies you for a proper work permit. The most-used schemes are:
- Pay Limit Scheme — salary above a fixed threshold.
- Positive List — jobs with labour shortage.
- Fast-Track Scheme — for certified companies.
- The new collective-agreement-based scheme.
Step 3: Submit the work permit application
Once the job is in place, you apply for a work permit with SIRI. Key documents:
- Employment contract with salary breakdown.
- Documentation of qualifications (Danish education diploma).
- Employer details and CVR number.
- Valid passport.
Processing time is typically 1-3 months, and you can continue working on the establishment card meanwhile.
Should you worry about “gaps” in residence?
A common question is whether there can be time gaps between two permits. The answer is no — so it is important to file renewal or new applications well in advance, preferably 1-2 months before expiry.
What about the road to permanent residence?
Study time does not, as a rule, count fully toward the 8 years for permanent residence permit. But time under establishment card and work permit does count — so the sooner you transition to a work permit, the sooner you reach the threshold.
See our FAQ on work permits or contact us for sparring on your specific plan.
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.
