Can students work off-campus in Denmark?
Yes, international students can work off-campus in Denmark while studying, but there are clear rules you must follow. Denmark allows students to take part-time jobs to support their living expenses and gain work experience.
If you are planning to study in Denmark, understanding work regulations is very important to stay compliant with your residence permit.
Who Is Allowed to Work in Denmark as a Student?
If you are a non-EU/EEA student with a Danish residence permit for higher education, you are allowed to work:
-
Up to 20 hours per week during the academic year (September to May)
-
Full-time during June, July, and August
EU/EEA and Swiss students can work in Denmark without hourly restrictions, but they must register with Danish authorities.
Can Students Work Off-Campus in Denmark?
Yes. Students are allowed to work both:
-
On-campus (university jobs, research assistant, library assistant)
-
Off-campus (restaurants, retail, offices, warehouses, startups, etc.)
There is no restriction that limits students only to campus jobs. However, the weekly hour limit must be respected.
If you work more than the permitted hours, your residence permit can be cancelled.
What Types of Off-Campus Jobs Are Common?
International students in Denmark usually find jobs in:
-
Cafés and restaurants
-
Supermarkets and retail stores
-
Delivery services
-
Customer service roles
-
Cleaning and hospitality
-
Office or internship roles (for advanced students)
In cities like Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Odense, job opportunities are generally higher compared to smaller towns.
Do Students Need a Work Permit?
If you already have a Danish student residence permit, you do not need a separate work permit for part-time work.
Your work rights are automatically included in your student residence card.
However, you must:
-
Have a CPR number (Civil Registration Number)
-
Get a tax card
-
Open a Danish bank account
-
Sign a proper employment contract
How Much Can Students Earn in Denmark?
Denmark does not have a fixed national minimum wage. Salaries depend on the sector and collective agreements.
On average, students earn:
-
DKK 110–140 per hour for part-time jobs
-
Monthly income depends on hours worked
Even though Denmark has a high cost of living, part-time work can help cover:
-
Rent
-
Groceries
-
Transportation
-
Personal expenses
What Happens If You Work More Than Allowed?
If you exceed 20 hours per week during the academic year:
-
Danish authorities may issue a warning
-
Your residence permit may be revoked
-
Future visa extensions could be affected
Always track your work hours carefully.
Can Students Stay and Work After Graduation?
Yes. After completing your degree in Denmark, you can apply for a job-seeking residence permit extension. This allows you to stay in Denmark to find full-time employment.
Once you secure a job, you can switch to a Danish work permit scheme.
Is It Easy to Find Off-Campus Jobs in Denmark?
Finding a job depends on:
-
Your location
-
Danish language skills
-
Your experience
-
The job market condition
While many jobs are available in English, learning basic Danish significantly increases your chances.
Networking, university career services, and online job portals are helpful resources.
Key Takeaways
-
Yes, international students can work off-campus in Denmark
-
20 hours per week allowed during study months
-
Full-time allowed in summer (June–August)
-
No separate work permit required
-
Strictly follow visa rules
Working while studying in Denmark is a great way to gain international experience, improve your CV, and manage your living costs.
If you are planning to study in Denmark, understanding work rules is essential for a smooth and successful student life.
