Background information

In 2023, Copenhagen Municipality adopted a proposal to improve the conditions for international citizens living and working in the city. The proposal focuses on attracting, receiving, and retaining international talent, particularly in sectors facing labour shortages. While not a law, this is a municipal policy that aligns with the national legal reforms introduced in 2023, which support the recruitment of foreign workers, including faster processing of work and residence permits for highly skilled employees.

The policy is expected to strengthen Copenhagen’s position as an attractive city for international talent, contributing to growth in both the private and public sectors. The initiative will also make it easier for international citizens to integrate into the labour market and society. Going forward, the policy will serve as a model for how Copenhagen can attract and retain workforce and address the needs within the labour market.

Content of measure

The measure targets international citizens who are either already residing in Copenhagen or planning to stay after completing their education. It places special emphasis on those with competencies relevant to areas where demand for labour is particularly high, including IT, life sciences, healthcare and the green transition. Both skilled workers and international students are included in the scope of the initiative. Among its core elements are efforts to reduce administrative hurdles when settling in the city, such as securing housing, opening a bank account, or accessing information about available support. Furthermore, it promotes coordination across public actors and increases visibility of existing services through digital and physical platforms. The measure also highlights the importance of family inclusion, with specific attention to job opportunities for accompanying spouses and integration pathways for children, including access to international schools and leisure activities. Altogether, the policy supports long-term settlement and aims to ensure that international talent can thrive professionally and socially in the city.

Use of measure

No information yet.

Target groups

Workers	Businesses	Citizens
Does not apply to workers	Does not apply to businesses	Migrants or refugees

Actors and funding

Actors	Funding
National government Trade unions Employers' organisations Company / Companies Other social actors (e.g. NGOs) Local / regional government	No special funding required

Social partners

Social partners' role in designing the measure and form of involvement:

	Trade unions	Employers' organisations
Role	Consulted	Consulted
Form	Any other form of consultation, institutionalised (as stable working groups or committees) or informal	Any other form of consultation, institutionalised (as stable working groups or committees) or informal

Social partners' role in the implementation, monitoring and assessment phase:

• Unknown
• Main level of involvement: Regional or local level

Involvement

Social partner organisations, including trade unions and employer associations, were consulted during the design phase of the measure. Their involvement was requested by the municipal authorities. Key organisations involved in the consultation included Akademikerne, Dansk Metal, FOA, and Dansk Industri. These organisations provided input on the challenges and opportunities of integrating international workers into Copenhagen's workforce. Their contributions helped shape the final proposal, ensuring it aligns with the needs of both employees and employers.

Views and reactions

No information

Sources

• 11 April 2025: Forslag til bedre vilkår for internationale borgere (www.kk.dk)
• 11 April 2025: Medlemsforslag om bedre vilkår for internationale borgere (www.kk.dk)