Denmark is launching a new employment-based immigration pathway – the Collective Agreement Scheme – effective 1 January 2027. Indian citizens are among the 16 eligible nationalities under this scheme, approved by the Danish Parliament in September 2026.
The scheme introduces a minimum annual salary requirement of DKK 322,000 – significantly lower than the existing Pay Limit Scheme threshold of DKK 552,000 – potentially opening Denmark’s job market to a wider pool of international professionals.
What is the Collective Agreement Scheme?
The new pathway allows eligible foreign nationals to live and work in Denmark under an approved Danish employer, provided the role is covered by a qualifying collective agreement – a formal arrangement between employers and trade unions governing wages and employment conditions.
Who is Eligible?
The scheme is open to citizens of 16 countries, including:
India, United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Japan, Singapore, China, Brazil, Malaysia, Montenegro, Serbia, North Macedonia, Albania, Ukraine, Moldova
Eligibility is based on citizenship, not country of residence.
Minimum Salary Requirement
| Detail | Amount |
|---|---|
| Minimum Annual Salary | DKK 322,000 |
| Approximate Monthly | DKK 26,833 |
| Existing Pay Limit Scheme | DKK 552,000 |
Note: Meeting the salary threshold alone is not sufficient. The role must also be covered by an approved collective agreement.
Employer Requirements
Danish employers must obtain certification from SIRI (Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration) before sponsoring applicants. Key conditions:
- Valid SIRI certification required
- Job must fall under an approved collective agreement
- Full-time employment conditions must be met
- Employer subject to ongoing compliance monitoring
- Trade unions will also review employment terms
Application Timeline
- Early December 2026 – Employers can begin applying for SIRI certification
- 1 January 2027 – Scheme goes live; work permit applications open
What This Means for Indian Professionals
This scheme creates an additional route for Indian professionals to pursue employment in Denmark at a lower salary bar than previously required. However, it remains an employer-sponsored pathway – a confirmed job offer from a SIRI-certified employer is mandatory.
Indian applicants should verify final eligibility criteria and detailed requirements directly with SIRI or a certified immigration consultant before applying.
Planning to explore work opportunities in Europe?
Connect with Hodophiles Xplore Visas for guidance on international work permits and migration pathways.
