The Supplementary Pay Limit Scheme

Work permit under the Supplementary Pay Limit Scheme

The Supplementary Pay Limit Scheme allows companies to hire employees from countries outside the EU/EEA at a lower salary than under the ordinary Pay Limit Scheme. In return, there are more requirements – including for advertising the position and for unemployment in Denmark.

The pay limit in 2026

In 2026 the salary must be at least DKK 446,000 per year (approx. DKK 37,167 per month). As under the Pay Limit Scheme, cash salary, fixed allowances, pension contributions and paid holiday count – but not benefits in kind such as free housing or meals.

Requirements for a permit

• You have been offered a full-time job (37-40 hours per week) with an annual salary of at least DKK 446,000
• The position has been advertised on Jobnet and EURES for at least 2 weeks within the 6 months before the application
• The seasonally adjusted gross unemployment rate in Denmark must not exceed an average of 3.75% in the three months before the application
• The company must not have received fines of DKK 3,000 or more within the last 2 years
• Salary and terms of employment meet Danish standards
• The salary is paid into a Danish bank account in your name no later than 180 days after the permit is granted
• If the position requires Danish authorisation, you must have it

The job advertisement is what most often goes wrong

Many applications under the Supplementary Pay Limit Scheme fail on the advertising requirement. The position must be advertised on both Jobnet and EURES, in the right period and with a description that matches the position applied for. We review the advertisement with you before the application is submitted.

Fee, processing time and family

The fee is DKK 6,810 in 2026. Normal processing time is 2 months and up to 5 months. The permit can be granted for up to 5 years. Spouses, partners and children under 18 can apply for residence as accompanying family members.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between the Pay Limit Scheme and the Supplementary Pay Limit Scheme?

The supplementary scheme has a lower salary requirement (DKK 446,000 versus DKK 552,000 in 2026), but in return requires advertising on Jobnet and EURES, full-time employment and that unemployment in Denmark does not exceed 3.75%.

How long must the position have been advertised?

At least 2 weeks on both Jobnet and the EURES portal within the 6 months before the application is submitted.

What happens if unemployment rises above 3.75%?

Then no permits can be granted under the Supplementary Pay Limit Scheme until unemployment is below the limit again. We check the current level before you apply.

Last updated September 2026. Source: nyidanmark.dk – The Supplementary Pay Limit Scheme. Amounts and rules change regularly – we always check the current requirements in your case.