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Researcher Scheme (Forskerordningen)
VisasDenmarkResearcher Scheme (Forskerordningen)
DenmarkDenmark•Europe
Open

Researcher Scheme (Forskerordningen)

Working Holiday

At a Glance

Processing Time

1 month

Application Fee

Free

Stay Duration

7 years

Renewable

No

Job Offer

Not Required

Dependents

Not Specified

PR Pathway

No

Remote Work

Not Required

Overview

The Researcher Scheme is designed to facilitate the entry of international researchers into the Danish academic and corporate sectors. It is specifically tailored for individuals who have been offered a position where research is the primary function, whether at a university, a public research institution, or a private company. The scheme ensures that Denmark remains competitive in the global knowledge economy by making it straightforward for institutions to hire the best minds from around the world, provided the research role is genuine and the employment conditions meet national standards.

Applicants under this scheme must possess at least a Master's degree and demonstrate that their presence in Denmark is fundamentally tied to a research project. Unlike some other work permits, this scheme focuses on the nature of the work rather than a specific salary threshold, though the salary must still align with Danish professional standards. The permit is typically granted for the duration of the employment contract, and it provides the researcher with the right to work in Denmark and, in many cases, the ability to bring family members along, ensuring a stable environment for their research activities.

Requirements

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Must have an employment agreement with a company or research institute in Denmark.

Must have research-related reasons for the position; the job must be closely linked to the individual and the main purpose of the stay must be research.

Salary and terms of employment (holiday, notice, etc.) must correspond to Danish standards.

Must have completed an educational program at the level of a Master's degree.

Must be able to support oneself and any accompanying family members.

Must not be a recipient of benefits under the Active Social Policy Act.

KEY CRITERIA

Education

master or higher

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Copy of all pages of the applicant's passport.

Employment contract or job offer detailing all terms of employment.

Documentation of educational qualifications (Master's degree or higher).

Receipt of payment for the application fee.

Biometric data (facial photo and fingerprints) recorded at a Danish diplomatic mission or designated center.

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

  • Reduced flat tax rate of 27% plus 8% labour market contribution (32.84% total)
  • Significant increase in net take-home pay compared to standard progressive tax rates
  • Simplified tax administration for the duration of the scheme

Worth Knowing

  • Strict eligibility criteria regarding previous tax residency in Denmark
  • Loss of eligibility if salary falls below the threshold or employment conditions change
  • No tax deductions allowed under this special scheme

Application Process

1

Secure a job offer from a Danish research institution or company

2

Employer submits the application to the Danish Tax Agency (Skattestyrelsen)

3

Applicant provides necessary documentation including degree certificates

4

Receive decision from the Danish Tax Agency

Ready to see if the Researcher Scheme (Forskerordningen) is your path?

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