Pay Limit Scheme
Get help with residence and work permits under The Pay Limit Scheme.
Residence and work permit under Pay Limit Scheme
We advise on residence and work permits under The Pay Limit Scheme and help clarify conditions, salary requirements and the application process.
01The Pay Limit Schemes & Applicable 2026 Salary Thresholds
The Pay Limit Schemes are among Denmark’s most widely used work permit schemes for foreign workers who have received a job offer with a salary above the statutory minimum thresholds. The schemes grant the right to reside and work in Denmark without requiring a specific educational background or industry affiliation, provided that salary and employment conditions meet Danish standards.
There are two main tracks with distinct salary minimums established by the Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI):
Standard Pay Limit Scheme (DKK 514,000+ / year)
- Statutory annual salary threshold set by SIRI (~DKK 42,800+ / month)
- No restrictions on job category or required educational degrees
- Salary must be disbursed directly into a Danish bank account
- Applicable to all non-EU/EEA international candidates
Supplementary Pay Limit Scheme (DKK 414,000+ / year)
- Lower annual salary threshold (~DKK 34,500+ / month)
- The position must not be affected by any active collective labour dispute
- Specific vacancy advertising and employer registration criteria apply
- Access to expedited processing with SIRI
At NMD Law Group, we help both companies and employees ensure that contracts, pension contributions, holiday pay and fixed allowances are calculated entirely in accordance with SIRI’s calculation principles, so that the case can be approved without delays caused by requests for comments or refusals.
02What we can help you with
- Review of employment contract and salary in relation to the requirements of The Pay Limit Scheme
- Quality assurance of salary and employment terms according to SIRI's 2026 pay limit thresholds
- Identification of relevant documentation
- Guidance and handling of the application process
- Coordination with the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI)
- Advice on extension and changes to employment conditions
03Spot check cases and regulatory oversight
A residence and work permit may subsequently be subject to inspection by the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI). Inspection visits or subsequent case processing may create uncertainty, particularly if questions arise regarding the employment status or your work duties.
We assist in situations such as:
- SIRI conducts inspection visits to the workplace
- Applicant has not been employed for a period of time
- There are doubts about salary, working hours, or job responsibilities.
- Cases are brought regarding fines or violations
Our assistance includes:
- Legal handling of spot check cases
- Handling fines related to work and residence permits
- Assessment of the risk of revocation or lapse of authorization
- Legal dialogue with SIRI during and after the audit
- Preparation of statements and legal submissions
Spot check cases require swift and precise actions. Even minor documentation deficiencies or misunderstandings can have significant consequences for the permit you have. We always conduct a specific legal assessment and advise on the most appropriate strategy.
Questions? We have the answers.
Pay Limit Scheme for residence and work permits in Denmark if the salary meets the specified amount limit. The scheme is independent of education level and industry.
For the ordinary Pay Limit Scheme, the minimum requirement is DKK 514,000 per year (approx. DKK 42,833/month). For the supplementary Pay Limit Scheme, the threshold is DKK 414,000 per year (approx. DKK 34,500/month). The salary must be paid into a Danish bank account, and the employment must meet customary Danish standards.
Only the fixed basic salary, employer-paid pension contributions, and fixed holiday allowances can be included. Uncertain allowances such as bonuses, per diems, overtime pay, or commission cannot be included to meet SIRI's pay limit threshold.
The Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI) typically aims for a processing time of up to 1 month for Pay Limit Scheme applications. With legal quality assurance from NMD Law Group, we ensure that all requirements and supporting documents are complete from the outset to avoid delaying hearings.
Foreign workers with a specific job offer in Denmark, where the salary and employment conditions meet the applicable Danish requirements.
We assess your basis, review the employment contract, ensure correct documentation, and handle the application and dialogue with the authorities.
Yes. We also advise on the extension of residence and work permits, as well as changes in employment that may affect the permit. You can use the contact form on our website to book a consultation.
Book a case assessment
Briefly describe your case, and we will get back to you within 1-2 working days.
Write to us
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What our clients say
Our clients' experiences with legal advice from NMD Law Group.
We were going through a very stressful family reunification process and were afraid of getting a rejection. Our case was carefully reviewed and several important details we had overlooked were identified. A clear strategy was created, and we felt secure throughout the entire process. Our application was approved, and we can finally start our life together in Denmark.
I had received a fine related to my Working Holiday Visa and was worried it would affect my new residence permit. NMD Law Group analyzed both my previous and current permits and clearly explained the risks and the correct legal approach. Their professionalism and strategic guidance made all the difference.
Prices & Packages
All prices exclude fees charged by national and international authorities. Prices are also exclusive of VAT.
The package includes:
- Submission of an application to the Immigration Authorities
- Drafting cover letters and other necessary correspondence
- Representation at hearings and handling of requests and communication with the authorities
- Ongoing follow-up until the case is closed
- Assistance with applying for a return permit and residence card
**Includes accompanying family members, family reunification, permanent residence permits, students, Greenland, and extensions.
The package includes:
- Completing and submitting an appeal or request for reconsideration
- Drafting cover letters and other necessary correspondence
- Representation at hearings and handling of requests and communication with the authorities
- Ongoing follow-up until the case is closed
**Includes cases handled by SIRI, the Danish Immigration Service, the Immigration Appeals Board, the Repatriation Board, and the Ministry of Immigration and Integration.
Process
We start by clarifying your situation and choosing the right scheme. We then handle the application, documentation, and dialogue with the authorities and follow up until the case is closed.
Help for employers
We help companies apply for work permits, review employment contracts, and provide guidance on the process.
Expertise
We know the requirements, pitfalls, and assessment criteria - even when the case becomes "difficult." This means fewer errors, better documentation and a more secure process.
We are following the matter closely and will respond promptly
You don't have to chase the authorities yourself. We handle inquiries, hearings and additional document requirements while keeping you updated along the way.
Our areas of responsibility
We handle the dialogue with the authorities so you don't have to worry about your case.
We are ready to take care of you.
Hatice Kocer Aras
Hatice is a lawyer with experience from the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI) and many years of advising in immigration and asylum law. She is known for thoroughness, clear communication and a strong focus on the individual's legal certainty.
Nurdan Catalkaya
Nurdan is a founding legal partner with solid experience from working in the immigration system and advising clients in complex cases. She has a keen eye for detail and for what the authorities specifically emphasize in their assessment of cases.
Contact us today and get an assessment of your options.
