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There have never been more foreign workers in Denmark than there are today. More than 330,000 full-time positions are currently held by international employees, contributing a staggering DKK 360 billion to Denmark’s GDP.

This makes it more important than ever for Denmark, as a nation, to be the best possible host – and there is room for improvement.

This is the conclusion of a large-scale survey conducted by Copenhagen Capacity, involving more than 2,100 highly educated individuals from over 100 countries.

Although 43% of respondents plan to extend their stay in Denmark, the total length of time they remain in the country is shorter than before. After five years, half have returned home, and this proportion has increased over the past decade. Therefore, a long-term strategy is needed to retain international workers, stresses Asbjørn Overgaard, CEO of Copenhagen Capacity:

“Denmark benefits greatly from international talent, so we must do everything we can to create the best possible conditions for those who come here. That’s why we’re highlighting a number of specific initiatives that can improve – and extend – the stays of international workers.”

Copenhagen Capacity recommends the following:

• Enhance job market accessibility: Increased support for international job seekers through targeted assistance programmes and job portals with relevant positions.
  
  
• Support for international students: Better career counselling and resources for closer integration.
  
  
• Improved inclusion and sense of belonging: Onboarding programmes and social and cultural experiences tailored to international employees.
  
  
• Support for spouses, partners and family: Improved job opportunities for partners/spouses and better integration of children into the education system.

You can read the full report with insights and recommendations from the Expat Survey 2025 here.