Moving to Denmark

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 expats moving to Denmark reside on one of the country'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 being proficient in 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 priciest cities in the world to live in. Taxes are also high in the country, but these at least go towards exceptional infrastructure, service delivery, universal healthcare and free education, so residents are by and large happy to pay them.

Families and children in Denmark

A fantastic destination in which to raise a family, Denmark has excellent schools, healthcare and plenty to do for children big and small. While education in Denmark is often provided at no cost, the language of instruction in public schools is Danish, which may make it difficult for older expat children to adapt. As such, there are also international schools sprinkled throughout the country. 

Despite its small size, Denmark has much to offer expats in terms of culture, sport and outdoor life. Visitors may be 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 68°F (20°C).

Expats who are moving to Denmark and manage to secure a stable job in the country's competitive job market often find their stay in Denmark extremely comfortable. It's all too easy to fall in love with this Scandinavian 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 5.9 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.