Denmark: Eligibility and Guidelines for Students and Recent Graduates
Dreaming of an internship in Denmark but uncertain about your eligibility? Piktalent is here to assist you! Denmark, famous for its Nordic charm and innovative society, is a prominent destination for international students and recent graduates pursuing internships. The country offers numerous opportunities across various sectors, from life sciences and information technology to green energy and architecture. The Danish government, in its bid to foster a more skilled and diverse workforce, even funds certain internship programs.
Prepare yourself for an exciting internship opportunity in Denmark with our comprehensive guide. Gain insights into eligibility requirements and guidelines, ensuring you’re fully equipped for a successful experience.
Academic Internships
for those keen on academic or research-oriented careers. For instance, the University of Copenhagen has internships across various faculties, allowing students to gain research experience.
Voluntary Internships
are not compulsory and are undertaken by choice. They can be pursued by individuals at any stage of their education or career. Voluntary internships offer flexibility in terms of duration.
Summer Internships
to students during their summer break, providing an opportunity to gain practical experience during the vacation period.
Industrial Researcher – Internship Scheme (IRIS)
for individuals interested in scientific research, supports graduate students, PhD students, and post-doctoral researchers from all around the world in gaining real-world industry experience in Danish companies.
Professional Internships
targeted towards individuals who have completed their studies and are seeking practical work experience in their chosen field.
International Internships
for international students or professionals, providing them with a cross-cultural work experience and exposure to a global working environment.
Denmark offers a diverse range of internships tailored to individual needs and circumstances. Keep in mind that internships can differ across industries, companies, and educational institutions. To explore specific internship opportunities in your desired field or location, thorough research and consultation with career services or internship coordinators are recommended.
In Denmark, the minimum wage for internships varies based on the internship duration and whether it is classified as voluntary. If a voluntary internship extends beyond three months, interns are entitled to receive at least the statutory minimum wage. As of September 2021, the minimum wage in Denmark ranged from €9.46 to €12.04 (110 DKK – 140 DKK) per hour, applicable to various industries and sectors.
Eligibility Requirements for Internships in Denmark
For Danish Citizens and EU Citizens
If you are a Danish citizen or a citizen of another EU member state, you are entitled to live, work, and intern in Denmark without any special permissions or documents. However, if you plan to stay for over six months, you must obtain a certificate of registration from the State Administration.
To be eligible for an internship, you typically need to be enrolled in a relevant degree program or be a recent graduate. Different internship programs may have varying criteria depending on the industry and the nature of the internship. As such, it’s crucial to check specific requirements with the program or company in question.
For Non-EU Citizens
Non-EU citizens wishing to intern in Denmark need to apply for a work permit, specifically the ‘Pay Limit Scheme’ or the ‘Positive List Scheme’, depending on their circumstances and qualifications. Generally, an internship in Denmark is considered a form of employment, so non-EU citizens are required to have a work permit, even for unpaid internships.
To qualify for an internship as a non-EU student, you need to be enrolled in a higher education program. The internship must also be related to your studies.
Explore our comprehensive section on documentation for students and employees in Denmark, conveniently located in the right column.
Guidelines for Internships in Denmark
Discover these helpful guidelines to assist you in locating and securing an internship opportunity in Denmark:
Research and explore: Begin by researching different industries, companies, and educational institutions. Piktalent can help you find an internship.
Network: Build connections through networking events, online platforms, and professional associations to discover hidden internship opportunities.
CV and cover letter: Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight relevant skills, experiences, and academic achievements.
Language skills: Danish language skills are beneficial, but many internships are available in English.
Apply in advance: Internship applications should be submitted well in advance, as the selection process can take time.
- Visa and work permit: Depending on your nationality and the duration of your internship, you may need to obtain a visa or work permit.
Denmark Cultural Considerations
When participating in an internship in Denmark, it’s important to understand and respect the cultural norms and practices of the country. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Hygge
Embrace the Danish concept of "hygge," which refers to creating a cozy and comfortable atmosphere.
Equality and gender equality
In Denmark, men and women are treated equally in all aspects of life, including the workplace.
Informality
Danish culture is generally informal and egalitarian. People address each other by first names, even in professional settings.
Piktalent Services for Denmark
We can provide a range of services to make the internship experience unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions
While proficiency in Danish can be advantageous, many internships, particularly in larger companies and startups, operate in English. It’s always advisable to check the language requirements for each specific internship.
Non-EU citizens typically need a work permit to intern in Denmark. This can be obtained by applying for either the ‘Pay Limit Scheme’ or the ‘Positive List Scheme’. The application must usually be submitted in your home country before traveling to Denmark.
It depends on the internship. Some are paid, while others are unpaid. However, even unpaid internships can often offer valuable work experience, skills development, and networking opportunities.
The duration of internships can vary widely, from a few weeks to several months. Academic internships may align with a semester calendar, while corporate internships might be more flexible.
A training agreement, often referred to as an “internship contract” or “learning agreement,” is generally required for internships in Denmark. This agreement outlines the terms and conditions of the internship, including the responsibilities of both the intern and the host organization. It serves as a legal document that ensures a mutual understanding and protection for both parties involved.
The training agreement typically covers aspects such as the duration of the internship, working hours, tasks and responsibilities, compensation (if applicable), and any other relevant details. It’s important to consult with the host organization or educational institution to obtain the necessary training agreement template and ensure compliance with the Danish regulations.
As an EU citizen, you can work without any restrictions while interning. Non-EU citizens must check their visa or work permit conditions, as there may be restrictions on additional work.
Denmark offers a wide range of internships across various sectors. Some popular sectors include IT, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, logistics, and public administration.
If you are a citizen of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, you should apply for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) in your home country before you go to Denmark. If you come from a non-EU/EEA country, you should buy health insurance covering you for the first six weeks in Denmark. After that, you are covered by the Danish health insurance system.
EU citizens can stay in Denmark under EU free movement rules. Non-EU citizens would need to check their visa conditions or apply for a different type of visa or residence permit.
It’s possible, but it would depend on the employer and the terms of your internship. If you’re from outside the EU, you would also need to ensure you have the correct work permit.
Yes, you can do more than one internship, provided it aligns with your study program (if you’re a student) or work permit conditions (for non-EU citizens).
Yes. For non-EU citizens, an internship is generally considered as work, even if it is unpaid. Therefore, a work permit is usually required. It’s crucial to check the latest visa information on the official Danish government website.
The education level required can vary by internship. Some might require you to be currently enrolled in a degree program or to have completed a certain level of education.
Yes, many companies have begun offering remote internships due to the global shift towards remote work. The availability of these would depend on the company and the nature of the work.
