Seasonal Work in Denmark 2025: The Ultimate Guide for Migrant Workers

Written by the editorial team at Travvilo.com

In 2025, Denmark continues to offer diverse seasonal job opportunities for migrants, students, and backpackers seeking short-term employment. From strawberry fields in Jutland to greenhouse work in Zealand, the country remains a popular destination for those willing to work hard, earn decent wages, and experience Danish life up close. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—based on government guidelines, real worker stories, and updated 2025 data.

🇩🇰 Why Choose Denmark for Seasonal Work in 2025?

Denmark boasts fair labor practices, union protection, and transparent work contracts. Its agriculture and horticulture industries heavily rely on foreign labor during spring and summer months. In addition to good pay (typically €13–€16/hour), workers benefit from well-regulated housing, work-life balance, and safe working conditions.

📊 2025 Seasonal Work Statistics and Regional Differences

• Estimated seasonal workers in Denmark (2024): ~18,000
• Peak sectors: Agriculture (berry picking, vegetable harvesting), horticulture (greenhouses), tourism (summer resorts)
• Top locations: Southern Jutland, Funen Island, Midtjylland, and North Zealand
• Busy season: April through September

👥 Migrant Experiences from the Field

Radu from Romania shared his experience working on a strawberry farm near Odense: "It was physically exhausting, especially during the heatwaves. But the employer provided shared housing and we were paid every Friday. The work is hard, but the community we built made it worthwhile."

Elena from Bulgaria has been returning for seasonal greenhouse work: "You get into a rhythm. You pick, clean, pack. After a few weeks, Denmark feels less foreign. The work may be repetitive, but it’s reliable income."

🏛️ Work Permits and Legal Framework

Citizens from the EU/EEA can work freely in Denmark. However, non-EU citizens must apply for a seasonal work permit via the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI). In 2025, digital applications and biometric appointment booking are streamlined.

Application Checklist:

1. Signed job contract from a Danish employer
2. Proof of accommodation during employment
3. Valid passport
4. Application fee (approx. DKK 2,700)
5. Processing time: 2–3 weeks

💶 Wages, Work Conditions & Living Costs

Minimum wage isn’t fixed by law in Denmark but is usually governed by collective agreements. Seasonal workers typically earn:

• Hourly wage: €13–€16/hour
• Overtime pay: 150% of regular rate
• Housing: Often employer-provided (€200–€400/month)

Most farms are located in rural areas, so expenses are limited to groceries and phone bills. Supermarkets like Rema 1000 and Netto are budget-friendly for workers.

🏡 Housing, Healthcare & Worker Rights

Seasonal workers are often housed in dorm-style accommodation provided by the employer. Danish law mandates basic living standards: heating, hot water, lockable doors. Workers are entitled to register for a temporary CPR number (civil registration) to access emergency healthcare.

Unions such as 3F (Fagligt Fælles Forbund) support foreign workers in case of disputes. It’s highly recommended to join a union upon arrival.

⚠️ Common Issues and How to Avoid Them

• Misleading contracts: Always demand a written agreement in English or your native language.
• Overcrowded housing: Ask for housing pictures before you arrive.
• Wage theft: Keep records of hours worked and payment slips.

💡 Tips for Success as a Seasonal Worker in Denmark

• Learn basic Danish greetings—they go a long way in rural communities
• Bring weather-appropriate gear—Denmark’s spring and early summer can be cold and wet
• Respect the recycling culture—waste sorting is serious business in Denmark
• Use apps like Rejseplanen to plan transport between farm sites

✅ Final Thoughts

Seasonal work in Denmark can be physically demanding, but it is equally rewarding. It offers migrants a unique chance to earn well, live safely, and experience Scandinavian culture firsthand. Whether you’re working for one season or planning to return annually, understanding the system and respecting local customs will make your experience smoother and more enriching.