The local culture in Denmark is a mix of influences, from Scandinavian to European and beyond. While life in Denmark can take some time to get used to for new arrivals, it’s one of the happiest nations on earth, and expats will soon find themselves feeling at home.

Language in Denmark

English proficiency in Denmark is exceptionally high, and some large companies even adopt English as their company language. Many services are, at least in part, available in English.

It is therefore perfectly possible to get by in Denmark without learning Danish, but there are several good arguments for learning the language.

All foreign residents are entitled to free or subsidised Danish language teaching provided by their local municipality. Expats can connect and integrate with their community more easily if they make at least some effort with the language. It can also be quite stressful for expats to not understand what is going on around them. Some familiarity with the language can alleviate this.

Hygge in Denmark

A key part of culture in Denmark is the concept of hygge (pronounced ‘hooger’). While there is no direct translation of the word into English, it involves being warm, cosy and relaxed, for example, with good food and friends in front of the fireplace. Although difficult to define, hygge is important because its pursuit is considered by many to be a fundamental part of Danish culture.

Food in Denmark

From the ubiquitous hot dog stands to the New Nordic food of Noma, food and drink play a big part in Danish life. One of the most characteristic dishes is the Danish open sandwich, smørrebrød, usually made with rye bread and topped with meat or fish and accompaniments. These are typically eaten with a knife and fork.

LGBTQ+ in Denmark

Denmark was the first country in the world to recognise same-sex partnerships and is also ranked as one of the safest countries in Europe for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Expats moving to the country will find a tolerant society and a thriving LGBTQ+ scene, particularly in major cities such as Copenhagen. There are also many LGBTQ+-friendly nightlife spots that expats can enjoy.

Read Diversity and Inclusion in Denmark to learn more about LGBTQ+ rights in the country.

Women in Denmark

The Danish society values equality, and women are treated equally, even though they still hold traditional roles in the household. Expat women moving to Denmark can expect a safe and welcoming society.

Read Diversity and Inclusion in Denmark to learn more about women’s rights in the country.

The weather in Denmark is marked by a mild climate that is tempered by the warm Gulf Stream. The country has short summers and long winters, during which temperatures can drop below freezing.

Denmark has four distinct seasons. The summer months are between June and August, with the warmest month being July. Temperatures are usually mild, averaging around 68°F (20°C).

Winter runs from December to March, with temperatures hovering around 32°F (0°C). Frost and snow are common during winter, so it's best to bundle up with warm clothes to avoid a chill.

Spring typically occurs from April to May, and these are generally the mildest months of the year. Autumn (September to November) is typically the wettest and most overcast time of the year. 

Strong winds blow throughout Denmark on a near-constant basis; these winds are utilised in Denmark's wind power industry and produce nearly half of the country's electricity.  

Healthcare in Denmark is among the best in the world, with numerous top-notch medical facilities to choose from throughout the country. 

Denmark operates under a universal healthcare scheme. Most people use public healthcare facilities because they are of such a high standard, but private hospitals can be useful for skipping the waiting list.

Most of the Danish population speaks English, so you should have no problem finding an English-speaking doctor.

Public healthcare in Denmark

Each municipality across Denmark is responsible for administrating primary healthcare and social services. Public healthcare covers a wide range of services, including all primary, specialist, hospital, and preventative care.

As a public healthcare user, you'll need to select a general practitioner to oversee all your non-emergency medical needs. If you wish to see a specialist, a GP referral is required. 

Denmark has plenty of excellent public healthcare facilities. To access healthcare at these facilities, simply produce your public health insurance card (also known as a yellow card).

Useful links

• Visit the Danish Ministry of Interior Health to learn more about public healthcare in the country. 

Private healthcare in Denmark

Thanks to the high standard of public healthcare, Denmark only has a few private healthcare facilities. That said, their popularity has increased recently, and the number is growing. This growth is mainly down to an increasing number of employers offering their employees private health insurance, enabling the use of private healthcare facilities to bypass the waiting periods often associated with public healthcare systems. 

Health insurance in Denmark

Anyone working in Denmark is entitled to apply for a public health insurance card, known as a yellow card. To do so, you will need a CPR number, which you can obtain by registering at the local International Citizen Service (ICS) centre. The CPR number and yellow card can be applied for concurrently.

EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access state healthcare during a short-term visit. UK citizens have access to the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which replaced the EHIC for UK citizens post-Brexit.

Pharmacies and medicines in Denmark

Throughout Denmark, pharmacies (apotek) are easy to find, including 24-hour branches. Denmark’s regulations regarding medicines are strict, so you may find you require a prescription for a medication you could get over the counter at home. In addition, some over-the-counter medications can only be sold at pharmacies in Denmark. 

Vaccines for Denmark

Expats travelling to Denmark will usually not need any mandatory vaccines to enter the country. Routine vaccinations (including those for mumps, measles, rubella, polio, tetanus, and typhus) are recommended, as are annual flu vaccinations. 

Emergency medical services in Denmark

The emergency number in Denmark is 112. This service has operators who speak English, so expats who are non-Danish speakers can easily call an ambulance. Denmark's emergency services are quick and efficient.

Accommodation in Denmark comes in various forms and is generally of an exceptional standard. From city apartments to suburban houses, expats are sure to find something to suit their lifestyle and budget. 

Most newcomers to Denmark rent their accommodation rather than buy. The rental market is highly competitive, especially in Copenhagen, so expats should be prepared to make an application as soon as they find something they like.

Types of accommodation in Denmark

Expats in Denmark can choose from apartments or suburban houses. Most accommodation in Danish cities comprises apartment blocks and is best suited for single professional expats or young couples. Freestanding houses are more common in the suburbs. These are usually the best option for expats with children. 

New arrivals in Denmark who want to live in the city should look out for apartments in beautiful historical buildings. These can be a real find for those lucky enough, as the apartments are of a high standard. 

Rækkehus are private single-family homes where the outer walls of the property are linked to one another. There are also værelse available – these are shared rooms in a house. This type of house is favoured by students looking to save on their rental costs and build relationships with locals and those in similar situations. 

Furnished vs unfurnished

Most rental properties in Denmark will come largely unfurnished, with only the basics, such as a fridge, freezer, oven and hob, supplied. It's also possible to find long-term fully furnished rental accommodation, but this will generally attract a higher rental cost and more competition, as these apartments are typically sought after. Expats who will only be in the country for the short term often opt for this option to avoid the cost of buying or shipping furniture. 

Short lets

Thanks to the proliferation of platforms such as Airbnb, short-term rentals have become more popular worldwide. Short lets are fully furnished accommodation options that offer expats an opportunity to experience a neighbourhood before committing to a long-term lease. They are also great for those who will only be in the country for the short term, as they are more affordable than hotels and usually also include utilities in the quoted price. 

Useful links

• Airbnb
• Vrbo
• Sublet

Finding accommodation in Denmark

Expats looking for accommodation in Denmark should browse online property postings and enlist the help of reliable real estate agents. Estate agents will have an extensive list of available housing and can also arrange viewings for prospective tenants. Some people will be lucky enough to have a relocation agency working on their behalf, who will research short and long-term accommodation options, negotiate on your behalf and help with moving in and setting up utilities.

It is also a good idea to speak to other expats already living in Denmark to find out how they went about finding accommodation. It’s quite common for expats to take over the lease of other departing expats.

Useful links

• BoligPortal and Boligsiden are among the most popular property portals in Denmark. 

Renting accommodation in Denmark

Rental properties in major cities such as Copenhagen tend to be highly sought after, so competition will be tough. Expats are advised to ensure they have key documentation ready when beginning the house hunt. 

Leases

Once expats have found a rental they like, they will need to sign a tenancy agreement. Lease agreements in Denmark are typically for 12 months, but expats can negotiate shorter or longer contracts with their landlords. 

The lease is provided in Danish and English, but only the Danish version will be legally recognised. Expats should have a Danish-speaking friend or real estate agent go through it. It's important to read the lease carefully before signing.

Deposits

Once the lease is signed, expats will need to pay a deposit of up to three months’ rent as well as an additional three months of advance rent. The pre-paid rent can be used to account for the remaining rental costs when the lease is terminated, and the deposit is usually returned at the end of the lease if there is no significant damage to the property. 

Termination of the lease

Expats who would like to terminate their lease before its stipulated expiration date must give their landlord notice at least three months before their intended departure date. They must do a thorough inspection of the property with the landlord upon moving out to avoid being unfairly charged for damages to the property beyond normal wear and tear. 

Utilities in Denmark

Utilities may be an additional charge on top of rent, or landlords may request that tenants pay a fixed prepayment (conto) as part of their rent to cover utilities. To access all utility services, expats must ensure they have their CPR number. 

Electricity and gas

Denmark operates a deregulated electricity market where customers can choose their own electricity suppliers. Ørsted is the largest electricity and gas supplier in Denmark, and customers can switch between electricity and gas suppliers at no cost. New arrivals can pick between a fixed or variable rate when deciding on their electricity suppliers. 

Expats are advised to contact their electricity suppliers at least two months in advance to ensure they are connected on their moving-in date. The latest new arrivals can reach out to their electricity suppliers is at least 14 working days before moving in. 

Water

Much of the drinking water in Denmark comes from groundwater sources. Water supply across the country is managed by individual municipalities and usage is monitored through meters. The meters are read annually and residents are then refunded if they used less than their initial payment, or they are asked to pay more if their usage was higher. 

Bins and recycling

Recycling and efficient waste management are an integral part of the Danish society. Local municipalities oversee waste management. Municipalities are responsible for providing waste bins and collecting rubbish weekly. Residents should separate waste at the source. Most buildings will have separate rubbish bins for different materials such as glass, paper, plastic and electronic waste. 

There are also recycling centres available throughout the country where residents can take their sorted recyclables. Denmark also has a recycling system for bottles and cans known as the "pant" system. This involves paying a deposit when purchasing a recyclable bottle or can, which residents can then get back when returning the bottle or can back to a reverse vending machine at a supermarket.

Internet

Denmark offers modern connectivity options, including fibre optic, wireless, and cable. Most internet service providers offer reliable connections and some offer bundled options that allow users to combine their phone, internet, and TV connections. This often works out to be the most economical option. Similar to other utilities, expats must have their CPR number before applying for internet contracts.

Useful links

• To compare electricity prices across different suppliers in Denmark, visit Elpris. 
• The Danish Ministry of Environment's Environmental Protection Agency has more on waste management and recycling. 
• Kviknet and Lebara are some of the most popular internet service providers in Denmark. 

Business culture in Denmark

Denmark is an egalitarian society, which is evident in its business culture. The country has one of the world's lowest levels of income inequality, gender equality is promoted, and the welfare of the team is seen as more important than the individual.

Hierarchy

Most Danish businesses are characterised by a relatively flat structure, and relations between different levels within an organisation are usually informal. This means that decision lines are sometimes less obvious. 

Great importance is placed on discussion and reaching consensus; team members are expected to make a positive contribution to discussions and decisions. In line with this, Danes generally avoid conflict and confrontation. It’s best to remain even-tempered and not display anger in meetings or public settings.

Family

Denmark is well known as a socially liberal country where minority groups are generally welcomed and treated well. The country has eminently accessible infrastructure, a thriving LGBTQ+ community, and empowered and powerful women. 

Read on to learn more about diversity and inclusion in Denmark.

Accessibility in Denmark

Denmark’s accessibility standards are protected by law, which prohibits discrimination based on physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities. Denmark aims to be a world leader when it comes to amenities for people with disabilities and has a programme called ‘Accessibility for All’, which aims to make it easier for them to travel and participate in everyday life.

Denmark is largely accessible for people who use a wheelchair or have sensory disabilities. Most road crossings have audio cues to signal when it’s safe to cross. All buses have a manual wheelchair ramp, and wheelchair taxis are also available.

Most metro and train stations are accessible via a lift or elevator, and it’s possible to wheel a chair onto the train from the platform. Assistance can be provided at the train station if you book at least 12 hours in advance, and this is especially important if you're departing from a major station during rush hour. Travel companions, such as assistants or guide dogs, can accompany people with disabilities on public transport at a reduced price.

People who can't travel by public transport due to their disability can register for door-to-door transport in a specially equipped minibus known as Movia Flexihandicap.

Unlike many European countries, Denmark doesn’t use a quota system for employing disabled people; instead, it favours an inclusive and active labour market approach with wage subsidies and special assistance measures. Companies are encouraged to employ people with disabilities, and there is a compensation system in Denmark that ensures employers are not faced with any extra expense when employing them.

Useful resources

DBS Handicap Service: call +45 70 13 14 19 (24/7) to check whether a particular train station is accessible for wheelchair users.
Access Denmark 
Taxa
Dantaxi
VisitDenmark Accessibility Guide 
Accessible Copenhagen: A Guide For Disabled Travelers 
DSB Disability Services

LGBTQ+ in Denmark

The LGBTQ+ community in Denmark enjoys some of the most progressive laws in the world. Same-sex sexual activity has been legal since 1933, and in 1989, Denmark became the first country in the world to legally recognise same-sex unions. Same-sex marriage has been possible since 2012. In 2014, Denmark became the first country to allow legal gender change without a medical expert statement.

Copenhagen is well known as a gay-friendly city and is famous for its annual Pride event in August. Copenhagen Winter Pride also takes place each February, featuring debates, workshops, live comedy, podcast recordings, film screenings, concerts, and LGBTQ+ history tours around the city.

The old Latin Quarter of the city is the hub of LGBTQ+ nightlife, but it’s smaller than you might expect due to the level of integration in Copenhagen. Vesterbro is another neighbourhood with many LGBTQ+-friendly establishments.

Further reading

LGBTQ+ Denmark
Sabaah: Advocacy Group For Ethnic Minority LGBTQ+ People
Copenhagen Pride Official Website

Gender equality in Denmark

Denmark’s approach to gender equality ranks among the best in the world, with Danish society highly valuing equal opportunities for women and girls. The country is tied for second with the Netherlands in the European Institute for Gender Equality’s Gender Equality Index of 2024, just behind Sweden. 

Equality has long been a cornerstone of the Danish welfare state, and today, the percentage of Danish women working outside the home is one of the highest in the world.

A gender pay gap remains, with men earning approximately 13 percent more than women, mirroring the EU average. 

In 2024, Denmark ratified the ILO Convention against Violence and Harassment in the World of Work, strengthening protections in the workplace.

Further reading

Denmark.dk: Gender Equality
The Women’s Council Denmark
European Institute for Gender Equality – Denmark
UN Women – Denmark Commitments

Women in leadership in Denmark

When it comes to women in leadership, Denmark presents an interesting paradox. Most Danes believe that gender parity has been mostly achieved, but only 35 percent of the current government and 43 percent of parliament seats are held by women. On the other hand, in 2022, Denmark re-elected Mette Frederiksen, their second female Prime Minister, who first took office in 2019 at the age of 41, becoming the youngest Prime Minister in Danish history. Denmark was also officially ruled by Queen Margrethe II for 52 years before her abdication in 2024.

Denmark ranks 23rd globally for women’s representation in corporate leadership. It's worth noting that this represents a disconnect from Denmark's otherwise progressive gender equality measures. This disconnect between political representation and corporate leadership is a pattern seen across the Nordic countries.

Despite Denmark's progressive reputation, gender roles in households show some persistent traditional patterns. Statistics show that mothers took 244 days of parental leave compared to fathers' 62 days for babies born in late 2022, although this represents a notable shift from previous years. While this is less pronounced than it used to be, it results in many Danish women facing a ‘double shift’ of professional and domestic responsibilities.

Further reading

Nordic Spencer Stuart Board Index
Female Force 2025 
Danish-UK Female Leadership Group 

Mental health awareness in Denmark

Mental health awareness in Denmark is growing, especially regarding the challenges faced by expats, who can be at greater risk of issues like depression and anxiety.

Studies examining expat mental health in Denmark have identified several key challenges, including feelings of loneliness and isolation, language barriers, and anxiety or depression. The Copenhagen Post reported that expats face average waiting times of two to six months for specialist treatment, creating additional barriers to addressing these issues.

International companies are becoming more aware of mental health issues, and many have adjusted their policies to provide better support.

In theory, Denmark offers free and equal access to psychiatric treatment for all residents. In practice, public mental health services face significant capacity challenges, with reports showing that only one public psychotherapist had no waiting list in 2023, while others had waiting times of up to 52 weeks (one year).

The general practitioner (GP) acts as the gatekeeper to all healthcare services, including psychiatric treatment. Many expats and international assignees working in Denmark seek the help of a private English-speaking therapist or psychiatrist instead. A good health insurer should be able to provide you with a list of options and resources.

Useful resources

The Copenhagen Post: How Expats Can Navigate Mental Health Challenges in Copenhagen

Unconscious bias training in Denmark

Unconscious bias training across Denmark has gained significant traction following recent studies revealing that many people with minority backgrounds face workplace discrimination, even in a progressive country like Denmark. 

A report by the Danish Institute for Human Rights found that more than four in five people with an ethnic minority background have experienced illegal discrimination. The Municipality of Copenhagen has launched programmes to promote ethnic diversity in the labour market, including workshops and seminars where companies learn more about these issues.

The concept of unconscious bias is an implicit set of often stereotyped ideas we carry about groups of people different from ourselves. These ideas are not purposefully adopted but rather develop subtly over time, and we tend to hold unconscious biases about groups we never or rarely come into contact with.

Unconscious bias can profoundly affect both personal and work conditions. In the workplace, unchecked bias undermines important aspects of the company, negatively affecting employee performance, retention, and recruitment. It can affect how companies hire, interact with colleagues, and make business decisions.

In a bid to create a better work environment, many companies are beginning to institute unconscious bias training. Organisations like the Living Institute provide specialised training for employees, leaders, and teams across Denmark. There are also several online resources that you can use to improve self-awareness regarding bias.

Useful resources

Project Implicit 
NonprofitReady's Free Unconscious Bias Training 
Living Institute: Unconscious Bias Training 
Harvard Online: Outsmarting Implicit Bias

Diversification of the workforce in Denmark

Workforce diversification in Denmark continues to expand, with public administration, education and health sectors employing the highest number of international employees. Most progressive companies in Denmark find that having a diverse workforce can be a strength rather than a challenge and understand that a mix of nationalities and perspectives can promote creativity and innovation.

If you’re an expat, it's usually simpler to join a company that already has other additional nationalities within the workforce. This makes it easier to form social connections than in companies with a close-knit group of local staff. As of 2024, the largest immigrant groups in the Danish workforce come from Poland, Ukraine, and Romania. 

The Danish government has recently presented new initiatives aimed at improving business framework conditions and enabling international talents to flourish, including updating the Positive List for People with a Higher Education to include 162 job titles in 2025, up from 72 previously.

Safety in Denmark

Denmark’s safety record is impressive by all standards. Denmark is one of the safest countries in the world to live in, and most expats find that the locals are very welcoming toward foreigners. If you’re a woman, you have no reason to be concerned when moving here; it is easy to get around the major cities, the transport is safe and efficient, and the roads are lit up well at night. Of course, there is some petty crime, and it’s sensible to take normal precautions as in any country.

Useful resources

UK Government Safety and Security Advice for Denmark 
US Denmark Travel Advisory

Calendar initiatives in Denmark

4 February – World Cancer Day 
February – Winter Pride, Copenhagen 
28 February – Rare Disease Day 
March – TB Awareness Month 
8 March – International Women’s Day 
17 May – International Day Against Homophobia 
19 May – Global Accessibility Awareness Day 
August – Copenhagen Pride Parade 
10 September – World Suicide Prevention Day 
October – Breast Cancer Awareness Month 
10 October –World Mental Health Day 
14 November – World Diabetes Day 
1 December – World AIDS Day

An archipelago of more than 400 islands, much of Denmark is surrounded by water – with the 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 gaining popularity among expats, as the Danish government, industry and higher education institutions are all keen on greater internationalisation. Generally, Denmark is a high-wage, high-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, Denmark has one of the world’s lowest rates of income inequality.

English is widely spoken, and many larger companies have adopted English as their company language. That said, expats working in the country will have an easier career path if they’re able to speak some Danish.

Getting around in 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 pricey, 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

The cost of living in Denmark is high, but so is the quality of life of those who live here. Copenhagen is one of the priciest cities in the world.

Taxes are also high in the country, but they go towards exceptional infrastructure, service delivery, universal healthcare and free education, so residents are largely 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 most public schools is Danish, which may make it difficult for older expat children to adapt. There are also international schools sprinkled throughout the country, some of which are public.

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, Denmark has 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. Still, winters are the ideal time to learn about hygge, a sense of cosiness and warmth that locals enjoy. Once the winter is past, the summers are mild and pleasant, 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: 6 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.

*Visa regulations are subject to change at short notice, and expats are advised to contact their respective embassy or consulate for the latest details.

Expats looking to work in Denmark will find a strong economy with a desirable work culture. That said, it can be challenging to find work in the country. Still, once expats have overcome the hurdle of finding a job, they should be able to get into the swing of things with relative ease.

Job market in Denmark

Most expats moving to Denmark do so with a job in hand, whether as the result of an intra-company transfer or after having been headhunted. These expats often take up positions in science, technology, finance, or business. 

Other strong sectors in Denmark that may be a source of employment for expats include tourism, healthcare, and transport. Expats with qualifications and experience in these fields typically have an easier time finding a job in Denmark. 

Many large companies in Denmark have put measures in place to recruit and retain highly skilled expats. Some have also adopted English as their company language, which makes life easier for expats.

Finding a job in Denmark

Networking is an established and necessary part of finding a job in Denmark. There is a high level of mobility in the job market, which is typically facilitated through various networks. LinkedIn is a good way for expats to tap into a social network and get to know local companies. 

Online job portals and recruitment agencies are also good resources, though expats will have to find a way to stand out from many other applicants.

Useful links

• Work in Denmark
• JobNet

Work culture in Denmark

Most Danish businesses are characterised by a flat structure, and relations between different levels within an organisation are usually quite informal. The downside of this is that decision lines are less obvious, and it might be difficult for expats to know who to talk to about particular issues.

Considerable importance is placed on discussion and reaching consensus. Teamwork and cooperation are valued in all sorts of businesses, and employees are expected to be motivated and committed to doing their best.

Business Culture in Denmark

Public schools in Denmark

All municipalities in Denmark provide free education for all children. Parents can enrol their children at any municipal school that has space, which can either be in their neighbourhood or another school in their municipality or a neighbouring municipality.

Children can enter nursery school from as early as nine months old, and most are enrolled in public kindergartens by age three. Schooling is compulsory from ages 6 to 16 and a trade or academic approach must be chosen at the end of their primary school years. 

Not many expat children speak Danish when they arrive in Denmark, but this is not a barrier to enrolment in a municipal school. Non-Danish-speaking children are either placed in a reception class with other non-Danish-speaking pupils or are placed in a regular Danish-speaking class but are given extra support in the language.

Useful links

• Danish Ministry of Children and Education

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Private schools in Denmark

Most parents opt to send their children to their local municipal school, but some pick a private school. Private schools in Denmark are self-governing institutions, required to provide education to the standards of municipal schools. 

The government partly funds them. There are many types of private schools and some are based on a specific philosophy, pedagogical line or religious belief.

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International schools in Denmark

There is a growing number of both public and private international schools in Denmark. International education is recognised as a key factor in attracting and retaining expats. Most international schools in Denmark are in and around Copenhagen, but the rest of the country also has good coverage. Many of these schools have English as their primary language, while others teach primarily in German or French. The International Baccalaureate is the most commonly offered curriculum at these schools.

Useful links

• International Primary and Elementary Schools
• International Upper Secondary Schools

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Special-needs education in Denmark

Denmark's Ministry of Education practices inclusive education and strives to ensure that all children with special educational needs are kept in mainstream schools with additional support. Children will be offered differentiated teaching and supplemental training in collaboration with the school's resource centre. 

Children will first need to be assessed by the interdisciplinary support (Den Tværfaglige Support) team, and the assigned psychologist will make recommendations in partnership with the parents. This will result in children either being placed in special needs schools, offered additional support or retained in a mainstream classroom. 

Useful links

• Interdisciplinary Support

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Tutors in Denmark

Tutoring is a useful tool for expat children moving to Denmark. Tutors can help expat children learn Danish or maintain proficiency in their mother tongue. Tutoring is also helpful in adjusting to a new curriculum and assisting with challenging subjects such as mathematics and science. There are several tutoring companies available in Denmark, but parents can also reach out to their children's schools for a recommended list of tutors. 

Useful links

• TutorChase
• TeacherOn
• Spires Online Tutors