Denmark Introduces Work Permit Exemption for Conferences and Business Events
Overview
Denmark has announced a new immigration measure aimed at simplifying short-term business mobility for international events. Under the updated rules, certain foreign nationals may now work in Denmark without a work permit when supporting conferences, trade fairs, and similar business events. All provided specific conditions are met.
This exemption is designed to reduce administrative burdens for event organisers and international service providers, while maintaining oversight and compliance.
What Has Changed?
Under the new exemption, foreign nationals may engage in short-term work activities in Denmark without applying for a work permit, as long as their role is directly linked to qualifying events.
Key highlights include:
The exemption applies to closed indoor conferences, trade fairs, and business events
Individuals must be part of an international event team
Employment must be with a foreign employer or service provider
Work activities must be temporary and event-specific
Duration and Scope of the Exemption
The exemption allows eligible individuals to work in Denmark for up to 10 working days per event, within a defined time frame.
It does not permit:
Any work outside these parameters may still require a standard Danish work permit.
Who Benefits Most From This Change?
This update is particularly relevant for:
International conference organisers
Event production teams
Technical staff, speakers, exhibitors, and support personnel
Global mobility and HR teams coordinating short-term assignments
Companies operating across borders in the events and business services sector will benefit from reduced processing time and administrative complexity.
Compliance Considerations
Despite the exemption, employers and travellers should remain cautious:
Immigration authorities may still request documentation proving eligibility
Individuals must comply with entry, visa, and stay rules applicable to their nationality
Activities must strictly align with the permitted scope of the exemption
Failure to meet the criteria could result in compliance breaches or entry refusals.
What Employers Should Do Next
To stay compliant and avoid disruption, organisations should:
Confirm whether the event qualifies under the exemption
Clearly define the role and duration of each assignee
Retain documentation supporting eligibility
Seek immigration guidance if activities fall outside the exemption scope
Early planning remains essential, particularly for large or multi-day international events.
Key Takeaway
Denmarkâs new work permit exemption marks a positive step toward facilitating international business events and short-term mobility. While the change simplifies entry for eligible professionals, careful planning and compliance checks remain critical.
Employers should review upcoming travel plans and ensure the exemption is applied correctly to avoid unexpected immigration issues.
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About Anywr
Anywr is a French international group specializing in international mobility and workforce solutions.
Founded in 2012, Anywr operates in 12 countries across 4 continents. Our mission is to support companies in addressing their Human Resources challenges. We respond to your needs in terms of international mobility, particularly in terms of immigration policies, relocation, the implementation of mobility policies and EOR.
Do you have a mobility project for your teams? Contact us!