Updates from Denmark Positive Lists: Foreign Workers' Path Will Be Easier in 2026
The jobs that are eligible for simpler work visas have been modified in Denmark's Positive Lists for 2026. This is what foreign workers should know and why it's important.
Denmark just updated its Positive Lists for jobs in high demand. These amendments took effect on January 1, 2026. If you are a competent worker or a recent graduate looking to relocate, this could be a good opportunity. Lists assist cover vacancies in the labor market, making it easier for foreigners to obtain employment and residency permits.
As of this update, the Positive List for People with Higher Education presently comprises around 180 jobs.
The Positive List for Skilled Work has approximately 54 jobs.
These results differed somewhat from previously released figures because officials fixed inaccuracies after the January 1 release.
What Are Positive Lists
Positive Lists are official lists of employment that Denmark requires right now. They are divided into two categories: one for persons with higher education (such as degrees) and one for skilled crafts.
These lists are updated twice every year to reflect current shortages. If your employment is on the list, you are eligible for a special Positive List permission. This permission allows you to live and work in Denmark without the normal trouble of demonstrating that no locals are available for the position.
Changes in the Higher Education Positive List
This list has shrunk from 187 to 180 jobs. A few were removed to accommodate changing demands, while new ones popped up. Notable additions:
Roles include Business Intelligence Manager, Movie, TV and Animation Designer, and Communication Officer.
These trends hint to increased demand for digital, media, and data roles. Denmark seeks experts capable of crunching figures, creating content, and managing digital communications
Full List of Jobs on the Positive List (As of January 1, 2026)
Here's the entire 180-job roster. I've organized them loosely by field for easy scanning
IT and Technology (high demand here):
IT Architect, Project Manager
Roles include software developer, systems developer, and IT security consultant.
Database Architect
Data Warehouse Specialist
Business Intelligence Manager (New)
Bioinformatician
Roles include Cloud Architect, DevOps Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, and Engineering and Science.
Engineering fields include chemical, civil, electrical, mechanical, and information technology.
Biologist
Physicist
Geologist
Geophysicist
Hydrologist
Job titles include meteorologist, pharmacist, physician, and dentist.
Nurse (specialised roles)
Business and management:
Head of Finances and experienced IT Consultant
Experienced Management Consultant, International Sales Manager, Communication Officer (new), Supply Chain Manager, Procurement Manager, Risk Manager, and Creative/Media Specialist.
Movie, TV, and Animation Designer (New)
Director (film, theatrical)
Screenwriter
Art Director and Graphic Designer (Advanced)
Health and Research:
As a research scientist or clinical researcher,
Medical Doctor (Various Specialties)
Veterinarian
Optometrist
Other Key Roles:
Career options include actuary, economist, auditor, and higher education teacher with a STEM focus.
Architect
The following is an updated list of Landscape Architects and Surveyors, as per official Danish sources. The categories include 25+ IT positions, 30+ engineering/science, 20+ health, and the remainder in business/media/education. Check nyidanmark.dk for precise matches to your abilities.)
Updates on the Skilled Work Positive List
The skilled workers list was reduced from 65 to 54 jobs. It focuses on hands-on trades, where Denmark lacks sufficient locals.
Key changes: Some construction and manufacturing jobs have been eliminated, but welding, machining, and healthcare support remain critical shortages.
What Does This Mean for Your Denmark Move?
These changes illustrate that Denmark values tech-savvy graduates and dependable tradespeople. Numbers have reduced significantly, so competition may heat up, but additions such as animation design indicate creative booms.
If your qualifications match, apply immediately through SIRI (Denmark's immigration service). Salaries are competitive, typically exceeding 500,000 DKK per year for advertised positions, and you'll like the bike-friendly cities, hygge vibes, and work-life balance.
Planning a job search in Scandinavia? According to these rankings, Denmark is one of the most welcoming countries in Europe for skilled migrants.
