Denmark is an attractive place. It has always been in the top ten list of the happiest countries in the world, and it has an assured high standard of living. A clean country with a healthy work-life balance and a trustworthy and egalitarian society. It is a dream of another kind of life for many talented professionals as well as students in India. But it is one thing to leave the colourful, noisy cosiness of India and enter the calm, peaceful Scandinavia of Denmark. Being ready to succeed does not mean having paperwork, but having a deep knowledge of the cultural and practical situation.
Visas, work, and the red tape
The initial and most important step is obtaining a legal right to reside in Denmark. In contrast to other countries, Denmark has a highly developed immigration policy, which is mainly oriented towards addressing particular labour market skills shortages.
The positive list
It is a list of professional areas where a shortage of qualified workers in Denmark is documented. When you are in a job on this list (IT, engineering, healthcare, and life sciences are some common ones), it is much easier. Your job offer will have to be according to the Danish standards regarding both salary and working conditions.
The pay limit scheme
It is a typical pathway for high-skilled workers. When you have a job offer with an annual salary that corresponds to or surpasses a certain limit. (Which is constantly revised and rather large). You can obtain a work permit in any area.
The fast-track scheme
When your future employer is registered under the Fast-Track Scheme by the Danish government, the process of applying for both your work and residence permit is made quicker.
Study route
Another gateway is having been admitted to a recognised Danish university. You will have to show an ability to cover expenses to maintain yourself (a large amount, tuition being free only in case of EU/EEA students). And cover tuition fees, which are high with non-EU students. Part-time work is permitted by a student permit.
You can not just go to Denmark and find a job. The job advert should precede the job offer, and your employer tends to be instrumental in sponsoring your application. All the applications are done at the Danish Agency of International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI).
The reality of daily life: Culture, costs and community
When the visa is obtained, the actual journey commences. The cultural transition between India and Denmark is deep and has to be adapted in a conscious way.
The cost of living shock
Denmark is very expensive, particularly in relation to India. Even the most basic food, a cup of coffee or an apartment will be more than you are accustomed to. As much as the salaries are equally high to compensate the initial financial expense of establishing your life is high. Finding accommodation, especially in places such as Copenhagen and Aarhus, is very competitive and expensive.
The Social Code: Janteloven
The Law of Jante is one of the most important aspects of Danish social interactions. It is an unspoken rule which underlines community, humility, and not believing that you are superior to another person. The showing of or flaunting of wealth is discouraged. This creates an egalitarian society and can be misunderstood as coldness by outsiders. Danes are hospitable, yet they tend to be closed when getting to know a person; it takes a long time to create a strong friendship.
Work-life balance is sacred
Leave the late working hours and the hustle culture that is prevalent in most Indian corporate cultures. Workday in Denmark is fairly terminated at 4 or 5 PM, and this time is strongly guarded by family, hobbies (fritid) and socialising.
The language barrier
Danes speak perfect English, but to go beyond the surface level to become a part of the community. To learn about the bureaucracy and to take up some jobs, one needs to speak Danish. To the immigrants, the government provides free classes in the Danish language (Danish Education), and taking up such classes is one of the investments you can make in your future in the country.
Weather and hygge
Danish weather is unpredictable, and there are winters which are long, dark and wet. The national medicine is hygge (hoo-ga). It is the idea of making cosy and warm happiness that can be achieved by lighting candles, having coffee with friends, and making the house warm. Hygge should be adopted in order to fight winter blues.
The practicalities of building your new life
The CPR Number: Here is thy golden ticket. Civil Registration System (CPR) number is a personal identification number which you need to get as soon as you arrive on the ground. You require it in all things: opening up a bank account, phones, health services, and taxes.
Banking: To open a bank account in Denmark, you need your CPR number and work contract. Banking is largely computerised and effective.
Taxes (SKAR): Denmark is a high-tax, high-welfare country. Your income tax is taken at the point of origin and in exchange, you receive universal healthcare, free education and a strong social safety net.
Driving: Within the first 14 days (with an International Driving Permit), you may use an Indian driving licence to drive. Then you probably have to replace it with a Danish licence or, in other instances, do a test.
Conclusion
It is not a change of address to immigrate to Denmark, but a complete change of lifestyle, as demonstrated in India. It provides a unique work-life balance, safety, and a clean environment at the cost of high taxes, high cost of living, and a high learning curve on the cultural front.
The most important thing to do during the transition is to come in with realistic expectations. Prepare to be patient, actively learn the language and social standards and accept the differences instead of struggling. To those who go through the trouble, Denmark will be a land of singular and most rewarding life, of silent, stable and happy existence, which to many is well worth the first effort. It is not about finding a new job, but a process of creating a new life.
You can also view these posts:
Getting Denmark’s passport
Things to know before immigrating to Denmark
Property prices in Denmark
