Denmark's Pay Limit Scheme: Salary Threshold, Costs, and How to Apply

If you have a job offer in Denmark, the Pay Limit Scheme may be your clearest route to a residence and work permit. Applications are processed by the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI). Below is a plain walkthrough of the key requirements and the 8-step process.

Who Qualifies

The scheme is open to people who have been offered a job in Denmark with a salary of DKK 552,000 or higher. There is no requirement to work in a specific sector - the salary level is the qualifying condition.

If you will not be residing in Denmark - for example, if you are a commuter - you apply only for a work permit, not a residence permit. Commuters skip the case order ID, pay no fee, and start directly at step 3.

Costs and Processing Times

The processing fee is DKK 6,810. This applies to residence permit applicants; commuters applying only for a work permit do not pay a fee.

The normal processing time is 1 month. If SIRI needs further information to assess your case, the processing time can extend to up to 3 months.

The 8-Step Application Process

Steps 1-3: Preparation and documents Read the conditions for a residence permit before you begin. Gather your documents using SIRI's checklist. If your documents are not written in English, Norwegian, Swedish, or Danish, they must be translated by a professional translator before you submit. If SIRI needs to assess a company's ability to pay your salary, additional company documentation may be required.

Steps 4-5: The application form Completing the online form takes about 30 minutes and involves 2 persons - you and your employer each complete a separate part. You can choose between two forms:

• AR1: you and your employer each complete separate sections; your employer goes first, then you complete your part.
• AR6: you grant your employer power of attorney to apply entirely on your behalf.

If you do not have MitID, you can submit AR1 by signing a sworn declaration by hand and attaching it to the application. Using the online form is mandatory except under specific circumstances.

Steps 6-7: Submit and record biometrics Once submitted, you can view your application for 30 days from your last login. You must have your biometric features recorded - a facial photo and fingerprints - no later than 14 days after submitting your application. These are stored on the microchip in your residence card. If you do not agree to have biometrics recorded, your application will be rejected without review.

If you are outside Denmark, you can have biometrics taken at a Danish diplomatic mission or application centre. If you are already in Denmark legally, you can attend a SIRI branch office. Commuters applying only for a work permit do not need biometrics.

Step 8: Wait for a decision Your application is complete once you have created a case order ID, paid the fee, submitted the form, and had your biometrics recorded. SIRI will contact you or your employer if further information is needed. Once a decision is made, your residence card is sent to the address registered in the Civil Registration System (CPR). Your name must be on your mailbox or the card may be returned to SIRI.

Documents and Power of Attorney

SIRI provides a checklist for all applicants. If you work in the hospitality or food service sector - hotels or restaurants - there is a separate checklist, as these applications typically require more documentation.

If your employer handles the application on your behalf, a valid power of attorney must be included. It must state who is giving the power of attorney, who is receiving it, and carry a date and signature. If a third party represents both you and your employer, two separate power of attorney documents are required. SIRI provides approved templates.

Where to Apply

All applications go through SIRI's online system. The relevant forms are AR1 and AR6. SIRI's official guidance is available at nyidanmark.dk, where you will also find the document checklist, biometrics information, and approved power of attorney templates. Browse open roles in Denmark at NewLuxJob to find positions that may qualify.