Denmark is well known as a socially liberal country, and minority groups are generally treated well. See below to learn more about diversity and inclusion in Denmark.

Accessibility in Denmark

Danish law prohibits the discrimination of people based on physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities. Denmark aims to be a world leader when it comes to amenities for the disabled, and has a program called “Accessibility for All” which aims to make it easier for disabled people to travel and participate in everyday life. The Danish government, along with private companies, has taken initiatives to improve accessibility for people with disabilities and ensure the equality of opportunities.

Denmark is largely accessible for those in wheelchairs and those with sensory disabilities. Most road crossings have audio cues to signal when it's safe to cross. All buses have a manual wheelchair ramp and wheelchair taxis are available.

Most metro and train stations are accessible via a lift or elevator and it’s possible to wheel a chair onto the train from the platform. Assistance can be provided at the train station if it is booked at least 12 hours in advance. Travel companions, such as assistants or guide dogs, can accompany disabled passengers on public transport at a reduced price.

Those unable to travel by public transport due disability can register for door-to-door transportation in a specially equipped minibus known as Movia Flexihandicap.

Companies are encouraged to employ people with disabilities, and there is a compensation system in Denmark that ensure employers are not faced with any extra expense when employing those with a disability.

Useful resources

www.accessdenmark.com lists Danish service providers that have had their facilities registered under accessibility. There’s information about restaurants, conference facilities, exhibition and meeting venues or museums and indoor attractions.

DBS Handicap Service: call +45 70 13 14 19 (24/7) to check whether a particular train station is accessible for wheelchair users.

Accessible taxi services (request wheelchair-friendly taxi when booking)

www.taxa.dk
www.dantaxi.dk

LGBTQ+ in Denmark

Denmark is one of the most socially liberal countries in the world and has some of the most progressive laws supporting the LGBTQ+ community. Same-sex sexual activity has been legal since 1933, and in 1989 Denmark became the first country in the world to legally recognise same-sex unions. Same-sex marriage has been possible since 2012. In 2014, Denmark became the first country to allow legal change of gender without a medical expert statement.

Copenhagen is well known as a gay-friendly city and is famous for its annual Pride event. There is a vibrant, open and tolerant gay scene, with gay people welcomed into straight bars and clubs. The old Latin Quarter of the city is the hub of the LGBTQ+ nightlife, but it’s a small due to the level of integration in Copenhagen.

Further reading

www.lgbt.dk
www.sabaah.dk

Gender equality in Denmark

Denmark is one of the world's most gender equal countries and Danish society values equal opportunities for women and girls. The country is ranked second in the EIGE Gender Equality Index, only just behind Sweden. Equality has long been a cornerstone of the Danish welfare state, and today the percentage of Danish women working outside the home is one of the highest in the world.

A gender pay gap remains, however, with men earning 12.7 percent more than women. The majority of leadership roles are held by men, earning them better pay.

Further reading

www.denmark.dk/society-and-business/gender-equality
www.kvinderaadet.dk/the-womens-council-in-denmark

Women in leadership in Denmark

Although most Danes believe that gender parity has been achieved, only 29 percent of leadership roles are taken by women, a fair bit lower than the EU average of 34 percent. Even in progressive Denmark, most homes have quite traditional gender roles, with mothers viewed at the primary caregiver and often also primarily responsible for most household chores.

The number of women holding board positions in Danish-listed companies is 22 percent, and there are just six female CEOs among the 131 listed companies.

In November 2022, Denmark re-elected Mette Frederiksen, their second female Prime Minister, and elected 79 female MPs, a record 44 percent of the total. Denmark is officially ruled by Queen Margrethe II, the country’s first female monarch in six centuries.

Further reading

www.diversityfactor.dk
www.spencerstuart.com – Nordic Spencer Stuart Board Index, a survey of diversity in the top 100 companies in Nordic countries (2020)
www.europeanwomenonboards.eu

Mental health awareness in Denmark

Expats can be at greater risk of mental health issues than the general population, especially depression and anxiety, which can be exacerbated by loneliness and the stress of living in new surroundings. International companies are becoming more aware of mental health issues, and many have adjusted their policies to provide better support. This includes ensuring that mental illness is well covered by the company’s chosen employee healthcare schemes, as well as promoting knowledge and decreasing stigma by holding in-house workshops.

In theory, Denmark offers free and equal access to psychiatric treatment for all residents, but in practice many Danes find that these services are hard to access, and many expats find them all but impossible to access due to long wait times and language barriers. The funding for the Danish mental health system is still below the EU average.

The general practitioner (GP) acts as the gatekeeper to all healthcare services, including psychiatric treatment. Many expats and international assignees working in Denmark seek the help of a private English-speaking therapists or psychiatrists instead. A good health insurer should be able to provide a list of options.

Useful resources

www.en-af-os.dk
www.psychologygroup.dk
www.psykologcenter1100.dk/english

Unconscious bias training in Denmark

Following a recent study that revealed that many people with a minority background feel discriminated against when in the workplace, the Municipality of Copenhagen launched a program to promote ethnic diversity in the labour market, including workshops and seminars where companies can learn more about these issues.

The concept of unconscious bias is an implicit set of often stereotyped ideas an individual carries about groups of people different to themselves. These ideas are not purposefully adopted but rather develop subtly over time, and people tend to hold unconscious biases about groups they never or rarely come into contact with.

Unconscious bias can profoundly affect both personal and work conditions. In the workplace, unchecked bias undermines vital aspects of the company, with negative effects on employee performance, retention and recruitment. In a bid to create a better work environment, many companies are beginning to institute unconscious bias training. There are also a number of online resources that can be used to improve self-awareness regarding bias.

Useful resources

implicit.harvard.edu
www.nonprofitready.org/unconscious-bias-training

Diversification of the workforce in Denmark

Most progressive companies in Denmark find that having a diverse workforce can be a strength rather than a challenge and understand that a mix of nationalities can promote creativity and innovation. Expats tend to find it easier when joining a company where there are other foreign nationalities within the workforce, making it easier to form social connections, compared to companies where there is a close-knit group of local staff. Expats moving to Denmark should make an effort to learn about Danish cultural etiquette and local business practices before starting work.

SpencerStuart conducted a survey of the top 25 companies in Denmark and found that they had on average 3.4 nationalities represented on their boards. Over half of board directors were foreign, and 36.5 percent non-Nordics.

Safety in Denmark

Denmark is one of the safest countries in the world to live in, and most expats find that the locals are very welcoming toward foreigners. Women have no reason to be concerned when moving here, it is easy to get around the major cities, the transport is safe and efficient, and the roads are lit up well at night. Of course, there is some petty crime, and it’s sensible to take normal precautions as in any country.

Calendar initiatives in Denmark

4 February – World Cancer Day
February – Winter Pride, Copenhagen
28 February – Rare Disease Day
March – TB Awareness Month
8 March – International Women’s Day
17 May – International Day Against Homophobia
19 May – Global Accessibility Awareness Day
August – Copenhagen Pride Parade
10 September – World Suicide Prevention Day
October – Breast Cancer Awareness Month
10 October –World Mental Health Day
14 November – World Diabetes Day
1 December – World AIDS Day

An archipelago of more than 400 islands, much of Denmark is surrounded by water – with the notable exception of the Jutland Peninsula, which shares a land border with Germany. The majority of residents live on one of Denmark's various islands, the largest of which is Zealand. Here, the thriving capital city of Copenhagen can be found. 

Living in Denmark as an expat

Denmark is rapidly increasing in popularity among expats, as the Danish government, industry and higher education institutions are all keen on greater internationalisation. Generally, Denmark is a high wage, tax and welfare economy.

The labour market is governed by the concept of 'flexicurity', which means that government policy and labour market legislation are guided by a high degree of market flexibility while providing substantial security through the welfare system. As a result, there is a relatively low rate of income inequality in Denmark. Despite many larger companies adopting English as their company language, expats working in the country may find it difficult to progress as well career-wise without at least some Danish.

Getting around Denmark is convenient and efficient. Denmark’s roads are in excellent condition and congestion isn't a major issue. There is also a comprehensive public transport system in Denmark comprising trains, buses and ferries, so expats who choose not to drive will have plenty of ways to get around.

Accommodation in Denmark is undeniably expensive, especially in Copenhagen. But housing comes in a variety of forms and is generally of exceptional standard. From city apartments to suburban houses, expats are sure to find something to suit their lifestyle and budget. 

Cost of living in Denmark

It must be said that the cost of living in Denmark is high. Copenhagen is one of the most expensive cities in the world where almost everything is expensive. Taxes are also high in the country, but these at least go towards excellent infrastructure, service delivery, universal healthcare and free education, so residents are generally happy to pay them.

Expat families and children 

A fantastic destination in which to raise a family, Denmark has excellent schools, healthcare and plenty to do for children big and small. Despite its small size, Denmark has much to offer expats in terms of culture, sport and outdoor life. Visitors are often surprised at how unpopulated some parts of the country are. Being a peninsula and a series of islands, there is no shortage of coastline, and water-based activities are very popular. Denmark is also in an ideal position for regional travel, with land and sea links to countries such as Germany, Sweden, Norway, Poland and the UK.

Climate in Denmark

A feature that can get some expats down is the long, frosty winters of Denmark when temperatures drop below freezing and the sun goes missing in action. That said, the summers are mild, with the average temperature being around 20°C (68°F).

Expats who manage to secure a good job in Denmark's competitive job market often find their stay in Denmark to be extremely comfortable. It's all too easy to fall in love with this Scandanavian country, and many expats stay on long past the end of their assignment. Denmark's beauty and high quality of life certainly offer good motivation to do so.

Fast facts

Population: About 5.8 million

Capital city: Copenhagen

Neighbouring countries: Most of the country is bordered by the North Sea. Denmark's only land border is Germany in the south.

Geography: Denmark is made up of a large landmass surrounded by around 400 islands. The geography of Denmark is primarily made up of flat plains and sandy coastline.

Political system: Unitary parliamentary constitutional monarchy

Major religions: Christianity

Main languages: Danish, but most of the population can also speak English.

Money: The Danish krone (DKK) is divided into 100 øre. The banking system is efficient and easy to use. ATMs are widely available.

Tipping: By law, all service charges (including gratuity) are included in the price billed, but additional tips can be given for good service.

Time: GMT+2 (+1 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October)

Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. Plugs have two round pins and some have an additional grounding pin.

Internet domain: .dk

International dialling code: +45

Emergency contacts: 112

Transport and driving: Cars drive on the right-hand side of the road. Denmark is well served by public transport systems including trains, buses and ferries.

Denmark is part of the Schengen Area. Citizens of certain countries, and those who've already been granted a valid and current visa to enter another Schengen country, may enter Denmark without a visa. EU citizens and holders of American, Australian and New Zealand passports are included in those that may freely enter Denmark without a visa for up to 90 days.

*Visa regulations are subject to change at short notice and expats are advised to contact their respective embassy or consulate for the latest details.

Denmark's strong economy makes it a desirable place to work, but expats looking for employment in Denmark will find that it comes with its fair set of challenges. Still, once they have overcome the hurdle of finding a job, expats should be able to get into the swing of things with relative ease.

Job market in Denmark

Most expats moving to Denmark do so with a job in hand, whether as the result of an intra-company transfer or after having been headhunted. These expats often take up positions in science, technology, research or higher education. Other strong sectors in Denmark that may be a source of employment for expats include agriculture, tourism and transport.

Many large companies in Denmark have put measures in place to recruit and retain highly skilled expats. Some have also adopted English as their company language, which makes life easier for expats.

Finding a job in Denmark

Networking is an established and necessary part of finding a job in Denmark. There is a high level of mobility in the job market, which is often facilitated through various networks. LinkedIn is a good way for expats to tap into a social network and get to know local companies. 

Online job portals and recruitment agencies are also good resources, though expats will have to find a way to stand out from hordes of other applicants.

Work culture in Denmark

Most Danish businesses are characterised by a relatively flat structure, and relations between different levels within an organisation are usually quite informal. The downside of this is that decision lines are less obvious and it might be difficult for expats to know who to talk to about particular issues.

Considerable importance is placed on discussion and reaching consensus; expats will be expected to make a positive contribution to discussions and decisions. Teamwork and co-operation are valued in all sorts of businesses, and employees are expected to be motivated and committed to doing their best.

Public education in Denmark

Language in Denmark

Food in Denmark

Denmark has a mild, temperate climate with short summers and long winters during which temperatures can drop below freezing.

The summer months are between June and August with the warmest month being July. Temperatures are usually mild with the average being around 20°C (68°F).

Winter runs from December to March with temperatures hovering around 0°C (32°F). Frost and snow are common during winter, so it's best to bundle up with warm clothes to avoid a chill. 

Strong winds blow throughout Denmark on a near-constant basis; these winds are utilised in Denmark's wind power industry and produce nearly half of the country's electricity.

Healthcare in Denmark is of an incredibly high standard with numerous medical facilities to choose from throughout the country. 

Denmark operates under a universal healthcare scheme, which all residents have equal access to. Most use public healthcare facilities because they are of such a high standard, but private hospitals do exist for those who prefer private care. 

Most of the Danish population speaks English, so expats should have no problem finding an English-speaking doctor.

Public healthcare in Denmark

There are plenty of excellent public healthcare facilities to choose from in Denmark. In order to access healthcare at these facilities, a public health insurance card (also known as a yellow card) must be produced.

If using public healthcare, expats will have to select a general practitioner to oversee all their non-emergency medical needs. Patients who wish to see a specialist must first get a referral from their GP. 

Private healthcare in Denmark

Because of the high standard of public healthcare, there are only a small number of private healthcare facilities in Denmark. That said, their popularity has increased in recent years and the number is growing. This growth is mostly down to an increasing number of employers offering their employees private health insurance, which enables the use of private healthcare facilities and bypasses the waiting periods often associated with public healthcare systems. Expats should enquire with their Danish employer about their health insurance policy. 

Health insurance in Denmark

Anyone working in Denmark is entitled to apply for a public health insurance card, known as a yellow card. To do so, expats will need a CPR number, which is obtained by registering at one's local International Citizen Service centre. The CPR number and yellow card can be applied for concurrently.

Pharmacies in Denmark

Throughout Denmark, it's easy to find pharmacies, some of which are open 24 hours a day. Denmark’s regulations regarding medicines are strict, so expats may need a prescription for certain medicine they could get over the counter at home.

Emergency services in Denmark

The emergency number in Denmark is 112. This service has operators who speak English, so expats can call an ambulance without having to speak Danish. 

Denmark is an expensive expat destination and the cost of living is high, even by European standards. Eating out, utilities and petrol are especially pricey. Luckily, salaries are relatively high and go some way to balance out the high cost of goods and services in Denmark.

Copenhagen, Denmark’s capital, is one of the most expensive cities in the world and ranked 11th out of 227 cities in Mercer’s 2022 Cost of Living Survey. Life outside of Copenhagen is not quite as expensive, but is far from cheap.

The good news for expats in Denmark is that they can expect a high quality of life, which tends to make up for the high cost of living.

Cost of accommodation in Denmark

Accommodation will account for a large percentage of expats’ monthly expenses in Denmark. Expats should consider the location of their housing carefully, as this can often affect the price. In particular, Copenhagen's small size, along with its popularity, means that accommodation is scarce and expensive.

The cost of utilities is not usually included in the rental price, so it's important to budget for this additional expense. When searching for somewhere to live, the cost of the initial deposit will be up to the equivalent of three months' rent, and some landlords will ask for an additional three months of rent to be paid upfront and in advance.

Cost of transport in Denmark

Transport in Denmark can be affordable if commuters use trains and buses, but can also be very expensive if they make use of taxis on a regular basis. Petrol is also notoriously pricey, as is the cost of buying a car. On the other hand, cycling and walking are popular and cost-effective ways of travelling.

Cost of food in Denmark

Groceries tend to be on the expensive side in Denmark, and expats may experience 'sticker shock' the first time they venture into a Danish grocery store. That said, with careful budgeting, it's possible to minimise costs. Buying locally produced, seasonal goods and avoiding imports as much as possible can bring down expenses.

Cost of schooling in Denmark

The cost of education in Denmark is very low, as tuition is completely free. While it's all too easy to rule out public school as an option due to the language barrier, expat parents should consider the fact that there is a robust support programme for non-Danish students. There are even some public schools that offer the International Baccalaureate in English or teach the curricula of France or Germany in each country's language.

For those who decide to opt for private education, schooling in Denmark can be very expensive, with international schools fees being particularly exorbitant. These schools offer a wider range of curricula than that found in public schools and may be the best fit for families planning to stay in Denmark for the short term only.

Accommodation in Denmark comes in a variety of forms and is generally of an exceptional standard. From city apartments to suburban houses, expats are sure to find something to suit their lifestyle and budget. Most newcomers to Denmark rent their accommodation rather than buy. 

Types of accommodation in Denmark

Expats in Denmark can choose from apartments or suburban houses. Most accommodation in Danish cities comprises of apartment blocks, and is best suited for single professional expats or young couples. Houses are more common in the suburbs, most of which have gardens. Suburban houses are usually the best option for those expats with children. 

New arrivals in Denmark who want to live in the city should look out for apartments in beautiful historical buildings. These can be a real find for those lucky enough, as the apartments are generally of a high standard. 

Finding accommodation in Denmark

Expats looking for accommodation in Denmark should read the listings in local newspapers and online property postings. A more convenient, but also more expensive, option is to enlist the help of a real-estate agent. Estate agents will have the most extensive list of available housing and can also arrange viewings for prospective tenants. 

It is also a good idea to speak to other expats already living in Denmark to find out how they went about finding accommodation. It’s quite common for expats to take over the lease of other departing expats.

Renting accommodation in Denmark

Signing a lease

Once expats have found a rental to their liking, they will need to sign a tenancy agreement. Expats should ensure that they read their lease carefully before signing and should negotiate any terms they are unhappy with.

Deposits

Once the lease is signed, expats will need to pay a deposit of up to three months’ rent. Tenants will also typically have to pay three months of rent upfront and in advance. 

Utilities

Utilities are usually an additional charge on top of rent. Heating and water are usually paid to the landlord while electricity is typically paid directly to the supplying company.

Business culture in Denmark

Family