Denmark has a relatively flexible approach to remote work, although specific regulations may apply. Here’s a summary:
- No Explicit Right to Remote Work: While remote work is increasingly common, there’s no explicit legal right to work remotely in Denmark.
- Employer Discretion: The decision to allow remote work generally lies with the employer.
- Collective Bargaining Agreements: Many workplaces have collective bargaining agreements that address remote work arrangements, outlining rights and responsibilities for both employees and employers.
- Employee Agreements: Individual employment contracts may also include clauses related to remote work, such as eligibility criteria, responsibilities, and expectations.
- Focus on Employee Well-being: Danish labor laws emphasize the importance of a safe and healthy work environment, which includes considerations for remote workers.
Key Considerations for Remote Work in Denmark:
- Employer-Provided Equipment: Employers may be required to provide necessary equipment for remote work, such as computers, monitors, and ergonomic furniture.
- Home Office Safety: Employers may have some responsibility for ensuring a safe and healthy home work environment for their employees.
- Data Security: Employers must ensure the security of company data when employees work remotely.
- Equal Treatment: Remote workers should be treated equally to in-office employees in terms of opportunities, career development, and access to resources.
- Work-Life Balance: Employers are encouraged to promote a healthy work-life balance for remote workers, including setting clear boundaries and expectations regarding work hours.
This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. It’s essential to consult with your employer, your employment contract, and relevant collective bargaining agreements for the most accurate and up-to-date information on your specific rights and obligations regarding remote work in Denmark.
For foreigners working remotely in Denmark, there are some specific considerations regarding your work permit and tax status:
Work Permit Considerations:
- Initial Work Permit: If your initial work permit was granted based on employment with a specific Danish company, remote work arrangements may need to be addressed in your work permit application or subsequently.
- Changes to Work Arrangements: If you plan to work remotely from your home country or another location outside Denmark, you may need to inform the Danish Immigration Service (SIRI) about this change.
- Maintaining Residency: Depending on the terms of your residence permit, prolonged periods of remote work outside of Denmark may have implications for your residency status.
Can a foreigner work remotely in Denmark?
For foreigners working remotely in Denmark, there are some specific considerations regarding your work permit and tax status. This is a complex area with evolving regulations. Here’s a breakdown of the key considerations for foreigners working remotely for a company not based in Denmark while residing in Denmark.
If you are visiting Denmark legally as a tourist (meaning you have a valid tourist visa or are from a visa-exempt country and are within the 90-day visa-free limit), you generally cannot engage in any form of paid work, including remote work for a foreign company. However, immigration laws are complex and subject to change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice.
In any specific case, please consult an immigration lawyer before embarking on your working remote adventure.
We have listed a few considerations you should take into account if you decide to research the opportunity to work remotely in Denmark.
- Violation of Visa Conditions: Working while on a tourist visa is a direct violation of the visa conditions and can have serious consequences, including:
- Visa Cancellation: Your visa may be revoked, potentially resulting in deportation.
- Future Visa Denials: You may be denied future visa applications to Denmark and other Schengen countries.
- Legal Penalties: You may face fines or even criminal charges for working illegally in Denmark.
- Short-Term Business Trips: Brief business meetings or consultations while on a tourist visa may be permissible, but it’s crucial to ensure these activities are limited in scope and do not constitute full-time employment.
- Digital Nomad Visas: Some countries are starting to explore digital nomad visas that allow for short-term stays for remote work purposes. However, Denmark currently does not have a specific digital nomad visa.
Tax Residency
Your tax residency status can be complex when working remotely. If you maintain strong ties to Denmark (e.g., permanent residence, significant personal and professional connections), you may still be considered a tax resident of Denmark even while working remotely from another country.
Denmark has double taxation treaties with many countries to avoid double taxation. However, the specific rules can be complex and depend on your individual circumstances.
Determining your tax residency is paramount.
- Permanent Home: Where you spend most of your time.
- Center of Vital Interests: Where your family, social, and economic ties are strongest.
- Days Spent in Denmark: The number of days you spend in Denmark throughout the year.
Your tax residency determines which country you’ll pay taxes to on your income.
General advice when working remote in Denmark
It may sound obvious, but consulting with professionals on the matter of working remote is a must.
Consult with SIRI: It’s crucial to consult with the Danish Immigration Service (SIRI) to understand the specific requirements and implications of working remotely for your individual situation.
Seek Professional Advice: Consulting with an immigration lawyer or a tax advisor can provide you with personalized guidance and help you navigate the complexities of remote work while living in Denmark.
While remote work is becoming increasingly common, it’s crucial to understand the specific rules and regulations that apply to foreign workers in Denmark.
Consulting with relevant authorities and seeking professional advice is essential to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
If you intend to work remotely while in Denmark, even for a short period, it’s crucial to ensure you have the correct visa or work permit.
