Key Points
- Denmark published updated Positive Lists effective July 1, 2025
- 190 job titles are now eligible under the Higher Education list
- Skilled Workers list expanded to 65 occupations with labor shortages
Overview
Denmark has published its latest revisions to the Positive Lists for work-based residence permits, effective July 1, 2025. These lists define occupations experiencing labor shortages and serve as a central eligibility criterion for foreign nationals seeking employment-based permits in Denmark. The updates reflect the government’s ongoing efforts to match immigration policy with labor market demands and offer expanded opportunities for qualified international professionals.
The Positive List for People with a Higher Education now includes 190 occupations, with the government continuing its policy of maintaining job titles on the list for a minimum of two years. This stability ensures predictability for foreign professionals and employers planning long-term workforce strategies. The included occupations span diverse sectors, including engineering, healthcare, IT, education, and finance, reflecting sustained demand in critical knowledge-based fields.
The Positive List for Skilled Work has been expanded to include 65 occupations, identifying newly designated shortage roles that require technical or vocational training. These roles often support key sectors such as construction, manufacturing, and logistics, and the update signals a need to supplement Denmark’s workforce in these operational areas.
Eligibility under either list provides access to streamlined work permit processes and reduced requirements under the Fast-track and Pay Limit Schemes, making these updates especially relevant for employers and mobility professionals managing workforce planning in Denmark.
Looking Ahead
Employers and immigration stakeholders should assess whether newly added job titles align with their recruitment needs or active candidate profiles. Foreign nationals with qualifications matching any roles on the Positive Lists may benefit from expedited processing and fewer barriers to work authorization. These updates are a strong signal of Denmark’s commitment to attracting talent and maintaining long-term labor market resilience, particularly in sectors facing persistent staffing gaps.
