
How to Move to Denmark and Work as a Nurse
Article by: Peter Omollo Updated: 13-Mar-2025If you're a nurse dreaming of working in Denmark, this guide is for you. Denmark offers excellent job opportunities, competitive salaries, and a strong healthcare system, making it an attractive destination for international nurses. Learn about the requirements, the application process, and how to navigate language barriers. Whether it's securing a work visa or finding top employers, this step-by-step guide will help you make your move to Denmark and start a rewarding nursing career.

Are you a nurse dreaming of working in Denmark? The good news is that Denmark is urgently hiring international nurses, offering competitive salaries, free visa sponsorship, relocation support, and more. If you’ve been thinking about taking the leap to work in Denmark, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of how to move to Denmark as a nurse, the requirements you need to meet, and how to apply to the best employers directly, avoiding scams.
Why Choose Denmark?
Denmark is one of the top destinations for nurses worldwide, thanks to its attractive benefits and job opportunities. Here are some of the key reasons why you should consider moving to Denmark:
High Salary
Nurses in Denmark earn between $4,000 to $5,500 per month, making it a financially rewarding destination. With an increasing demand for healthcare professionals, salaries are competitive and reflect the urgent need for nurses in the country.
Work-Life Balance
Denmark is known for its excellent work-life balance. Nurses typically work a 37-hour workweek, with paid holidays and family-friendly policies. This allows you to enjoy a fulfilling career while maintaining a healthy personal life.
Healthcare & Education Benefits
Denmark offers free healthcare to its residents and access to free education, which adds an additional layer of value to working there. The country’s commitment to healthcare makes it a great place to advance your nursing career.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
In addition to your job benefits, Denmark offers a pathway to permanent residency and citizenship, allowing you to settle and work legally in Europe.
Requirements to Work in Denmark
Before you pack your bags, it's essential to understand the specific requirements to work as a nurse in Denmark. Here's what you need:
1. Nursing Qualification: You must be a registered nurse in your home country. Your nursing degree must be recognized by the Danish Patient Safety Authority (STPS).
2. Language Proficiency: To practice in Denmark, you’ll need to pass a Danish language test (PD3). While learning Danish can be challenging, it is crucial for securing a job and integrating into the workplace.
3. Authorization from the Danish Patient Safety Authority: To legally work as a nurse in Denmark, you must obtain authorization from the Danish Patient Safety Authority (STPS), which licenses healthcare professionals.
4. Work Visa & Job Sponsorship: Employers who hire foreign nurses are required to provide work visa sponsorship. This is essential for securing your role and legally living in Denmark.
The Step-by-Step Application Process
Once you are familiar with the requirements, it’s time to start applying. Here’s the process broken down:
Step 1: Get Your Nursing Degree Recognized: Your nursing degree must be evaluated and recognized by the Danish Patient Safety Authority (STPS). This is the first step before you can apply for a job.
Step 2: Register with the Danish Nursing Council: Next, you’ll need to register with the Danish Nursing Council or the Sigad system, which is part of the official healthcare registration process.
Step 3: Apply for a Work Visa: After securing a job offer from an approved employer, you can apply for a work visa. Employers hiring foreign nurses must provide sponsorship.
Step 4: Complete Language Requirements & Adaptation Period: As part of the process, you’ll need to complete the Danish language test (PD3) and may also need to go through an adaptation period, which involves practical training in the Danish healthcare system.
Step 5: Start Working: Once everything is in place, you’ll be ready to start working. Expect to earn between $4,000 and $5,500 per month, depending on your experience.
Pro Tip: Learn Danish Early
Language barriers are one of the biggest challenges for foreign nurses moving to Denmark. To improve your chances of getting hired, start learning Danish as early as possible. This will not only help with your language test but also make it easier to integrate into the Danish work culture.
Top Employers Hiring Nurses in Denmark
Denmark’s healthcare system is robust, with many top employers hiring international nurses. Here are a few of the top hospitals and healthcare companies looking for nurses:
1. Rigshospitalet in Copenhagen: Rigshospitalet is Denmark’s largest hospital and is currently hiring nurses from abroad. It is known for offering excellent relocation support.
2. Aarhus University Hospital: This hospital offers free adaptation programs and is a top choice for nurses looking to move to Denmark.
3. Odense University Hospital: Located in a nurse-friendly city, Odense University Hospital is a great option for those seeking a welcoming environment and competitive benefits.
4. Hoverstard Healthcare Services: Covering multiple hospitals in Denmark, Hoverstard Healthcare Services specializes in hiring international healthcare professionals.
5. V Hospital: Best known for its specialization in different medical fields, V Hospital is another great employer for nurses.
Top Recruitment Agencies for Nurses
If you're interested in applying through recruitment agencies, here are some of the top government-approved agencies that can help you relocate to Denmark for free:
1. WorkinDenmark.dk: This is the official Danish government recruitment portal for foreign job seekers, including nurses.
2. URS Denmark: A European job mobility platform, URS Denmark specializes in connecting nurses with job opportunities in Denmark.
3. Carestaff Denmark: Specializing in healthcare recruitment, Carestaff helps nurses find employment in hospitals across Denmark.
4. Agito Medical: Agito Medical focuses on hiring nurses for hospitals and elderly care facilities in Denmark.
5. Templar’s Medical: Templar’s Medical focuses on international nurse recruitment and provides assistance for nurses looking to move to Denmark.
How to Avoid Scams
While there are many legitimate opportunities to move to Denmark as a nurse, some scams target foreign applicants. To avoid scams, always apply directly through official hospital websites or government portals. Be cautious of agencies that ask for large upfront fees or make unrealistic promises.
Conclusion
Moving to Denmark as a nurse offers fantastic opportunities, from high salaries to a great work-life balance and a clear path to permanent residency. By following the steps outlined in this guide, learning Danish early, and applying through trusted agencies or directly to hospitals, you can increase your chances of successfully landing your dream nursing job in Denmark.
So, if you’re ready to make the move, start your nursing registration process today. Apply to the top hospitals and use government-approved agencies for free visa sponsorship. The Danish healthcare system is waiting for skilled nurses like you.
Still have questions? Comment below, and I’ll reply personally! Don’t forget to like and share this video with fellow nurses looking for European job opportunities. Let’s help more people achieve their dreams of working in Denmark!