Denmark's Positive Lists Updated for 2026: Key Changes for Foreign Workers
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January 30, 2026 — COPENHAGEN — Denmark has implemented significant updates to its Positive Lists for immigration and work permits, with revised lists taking effect on January 1, 2026, and a crucial adjustment issued on January 19, 2026. The changes reflect the latest labor market analysis by the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI) and impact how non-EU/EEA nationals can obtain Danish work and residence permits.
What Are Denmark's Positive Lists 2026?
The Denmark Positive Lists are official registers of occupations experiencing verified shortages where streamlined immigration pathways are available. Managed by SIRI, the system consists of two distinct categories:
Positive List for People with a Higher Education (university-level qualifications, typically bachelor's degree or higher)
Positive List for Skilled Work (vocational training, skilled trades, and associate professional roles)
These lists are updated biannually on January 1 and July 1, with interim adjustments possible for acute shortages. Inclusion on either list allows qualified non-EU/EEA nationals with a relevant job offer to apply for a combined Danish residence and work permit, typically valid for up to four years and tied to specific employment.
January 2026 Positive Lists Update: The Numbers
List Type | July 2025 Count | Jan 1, 2026 Count | Jan 19, 2026 (Final) | Change Since July 2025 |
Higher Education | 187 job titles | 183 job titles | 180 job titles | -7 job titles |
Skilled Work | 65 job titles | 57 job titles | 54 job titles | -11 job titles |
The January 19 adjustment corrected minor errors in the underlying shortage occupation data. "While the total number of titles has decreased, this reflects a more precise matching of verified shortages rather than reduced immigration pathways," noted immigration policy analyst Mikael Jensen. "Denmark continues to target specific high-need areas with strategic immigration solutions."
Notable Additions to the 2026 Positive Lists
Despite the overall reduction, several important occupations have been added or confirmed on the current lists:
Higher Education List Additions:
Business Intelligence Manager (DISCO-08: 242100) – Valid until at least mid-2026
Movie-, TV- and Animation Designer (DISCO-08: 216600) – Valid until mid-2027
Communication Officer/Consultant (DISCO-08: 264200/243200) – Valid into late 2026
Sectors with Strong Representation:
Information Technology (software developers, systems analysts)
Engineering (civil, mechanical, electrical engineers)
Healthcare (physicians, specialized nurses)
Education (certain academic specialists)
Creative Industries (designers, animators)
Impact on Current and Prospective Applicants
For Existing Permit Holders:
No immediate effect – Current Positive List permit holders remain protected
Renewal possible if general conditions continue to be met (ongoing employment, salary requirements, residence rules)
Job title removal from lists does NOT affect already-issued permits
For New Applicants:
Must match exact job title on the January 19, 2026 adjusted lists
Applications submitted between January 1-18 for subsequently removed titles will be contacted directly by SIRI
Salary requirements must meet Danish standards (assessed via Statistics Denmark wage statistics)
Skilled Work applicants must note updated Q3 2025 wage statistics apply from February 1, 2026
Application Timeline and Process
text
Important Dates for 2026 Applicants:
├── January 1, 2026 → Initial Positive Lists published
├── January 19, 2026 → Corrected lists take effect
├── February 1, 2026 → New wage statistics apply (Skilled Work)
├── March 2026 → Typical 1-month processing begins
└── July 1, 2026 → Next scheduled updateStep-by-Step Application Guide:
Secure Job Offer matching exact Positive List title
Verify Current List on official New to Denmark website
Submit Application via SIRI (forms AR1/AR6)
Pay Updated Fees (2026 rates apply)
Provide Biometrics at application center
Await Decision (~1 month typical processing)
Related 2026 Danish Immigration Updates
The Positive Lists revision coincides with other immigration changes:
Increased application fees across SIRI case types
Adjusted salary thresholds for certain permit categories
Enhanced language requirements in some family reunification cases
Digitalization initiatives for application processing
Comparative Context: Denmark vs. Neighboring Countries
While Denmark tightens some occupational categories, neighboring countries maintain their own shortage lists. Sweden, for instance, continues to offer pathways for various professions through its established immigration system. Readers interested in Nordic comparisons can explore our detailed guide to Sweden's immigration categories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: My job was on the January 1 list but removed January 19. Can I still apply?
A: No. Only titles on the January 19 adjusted list are eligible. SIRI will contact applicants who submitted between January 1-18 for removed titles.
Q: How long are permits typically valid?
A: Up to 4 years, tied to your specific employment. Renewal requires continued eligibility.
Q: Can family members join Positive List permit holders?
A: Yes, family reunification is generally possible for spouses/partners and minor children.
Q: What happens if I change jobs?
A: You must apply for a new permit matching a current Positive List title with the new employer.
Q: Where can I check exact education requirements?
A: Each title on the official lists includes specific education level requirements.
Expert Analysis and Future Outlook
"The reduction in list sizes indicates Denmark's labor market is stabilizing in some sectors but continues to experience acute shortages in others," observed Dr. Helena Sørensen, labor economist at Copenhagen University. "The addition of specialized digital and creative roles shows Denmark's evolving economic priorities."
The next scheduled update to the Denmark Positive Lists 2026 will occur on July 1, 2026, with potential interim adjustments if acute shortages emerge.
Essential Resources and Next Steps
Verify Current Lists: Official Positive Lists Page
SIRI Contact: Danish Agency for International Recruitment
Application Portal: New to Denmark Application System
For continuous updates on global immigration policies, subscribe to our newsletter. This article will be updated as new information becomes available. Last verified: January 30, 2026.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information only. Immigration policies change frequently. Always consult official Danish authorities or qualified immigration advisors for specific cases. All DISCO codes, list counts, and validity periods are sourced from official Danish authorities as of January 30, 2026.
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