Understanding Employee Leave Policies in Denmark

Denmark offers a comprehensive framework of employee leave rights that balances work-life integration with employer needs. As an international HR professional, understanding these regulations is crucial for managing a Danish workforce effectively.

Annual Leave Entitlements

Full-time employees in Denmark are entitled to five weeks of paid vacation annually, accumulating at a rate of 2.08 days per month of employment. Employers contribute to a holiday account system (FerieKonto), with employees typically receiving approximately 12.5% of their salary as holiday pay. Unused vacation days can be carried forward to the next holiday year, with a maximum transfer allowance of four weeks.

Maternity Leave Provisions

Danish maternity benefits include four weeks of prenatal leave and ten weeks following childbirth. The Danish Public Benefits Administration (Udbetaling Danmark) manages these benefits, requiring employees to meet specific criteria including recent employment history and minimum working hours. For 2024, full-time employees can receive up to 4,695 DKK weekly before taxes, with many collective agreements offering full salary coverage during leave periods.

Paternity Leave Rights

Fathers in Denmark receive two weeks of paid paternity leave following childbirth, with eligibility requirements mirroring those for maternity benefits. This policy supports family bonding and shared parental responsibilities.

Parental Leave Framework

For children born after August 2, 2022, Danish parents each qualify for 32 weeks of parental leave, extendable under certain conditions. The revised Parental Leave Act introduces flexible scheduling options and transferable weeks between parents, with special provisions for single parents. SailGlobal's compliance experts can help navigate these complex regulations to ensure proper implementation.

Sick Leave Regulations

Danish employees maintain salary continuity during illness, typically receiving full pay under the Salaried Employees Act. The system allows for up to 22 weeks of sick pay, after which municipal authorities reassess eligibility based on previous earnings and working patterns.

Public Holidays in Denmark

Denmark observes several national holidays when most employees receive paid time off. Those working during these periods qualify for additional compensation.

Holiday	2025 Date
New Year's Day	January 1
Maundy Thursday	April 17
Good Friday	April 18
Easter Sunday	April 20
Easter Monday	April 21
Ascension Day	May 29
Pentecost	June 8
Whit Monday	June 9
Christmas Day	December 25
Boxing Day	December 26

Additional observance days may affect business operations, including Constitution Day (June 5) and Christmas Eve (December 24).

Additional Leave Categories

Since January 2023, employees can take five days of unpaid care leave annually. Other unpaid leave arrangements can be negotiated through collective agreements or direct employer discussions.

Navigating Compliance with SailGlobal

Managing Danish leave policies requires precise calculation and compliance monitoring. SailGlobal's expertise ensures accurate administration of paid leave entitlements while maintaining regulatory compliance. Our solutions help international employers avoid penalties and maintain positive employee relations.

Danish Employee Leave Policies: Complete Guide for International Employers