Denmark Employment Guide

Paid Annual Leave in Denmark

Full-time employees in Denmark working a standard 5-day week are entitled to a minimum of 25 paid vacation days annually. This entitlement accrues at a rate of 2.08 days per month throughout the employment year. Part-time workers receive the same number of vacation days on a pro-rata basis, ensuring equitable treatment regardless of work schedule. For employees with contractual agreements exceeding the statutory minimum, the monthly accrual rate is calculated by dividing their total annual leave entitlement by 12. Danish labor regulations mandate that employees must utilize at least 20 days of their annual leave each year, promoting work-life balance and employee well-being.

National Public Holidays

Denmark observes 10 official public holidays nationwide. These non-working days are deeply embedded in Danish culture and provide valuable breaks throughout the year. The complete list includes:

1. New Year's Day (January 1st)
2. Palm Sunday
3. Maundy Thursday
4. Good Friday
5. Easter Monday
6. General Prayer Day
7. Ascension Day
8. Whit Monday
9. Christmas Day (December 25th)
10. Boxing Day (December 26th)

Many Danish companies, including SailGlobal, often extend these holidays when they fall close to weekends, creating longer break periods that enhance employee satisfaction and productivity.

Practical Implications for International Employers

Understanding Denmark's leave policies is crucial for multinational companies establishing operations there. SailGlobal's HR consulting experience shows that Danish employees highly value their vacation time, and companies that respect these norms typically see higher retention rates. The mandatory 20-day leave utilization prevents burnout and aligns with Denmark's strong emphasis on work-life balance—a key factor in the country's consistently high happiness rankings.