Finding work in the cultural sector in Denmark
Would you like to work in the cultural sector in Denmark? Here you can find practical tips on where to look for jobs, how to apply and what to be aware of when working across Öresund.
Be proactive
Competition for jobs in the cultural sector is intense, and opportunities often need to be created rather than found. Permanent employment is becoming less common, while freelance work is increasing. Find out what is required to work as a freelancer in your field.
Build a broad professional network and take the initiative to contact potential employers directly.
Search broadly
Companies and organisations in the cultural sector often advertise vacancies on their own websites and social media channels. Make sure to check them regularly.
You can also send an unsolicited application.
Useful websites for your job search:
Find cultural sector jobs at jobscenen.dk
Search for musician jobs at jobindex.dk
Apply proactively
It is common in Denmark to send an unsolicited application, uopfordret ansøgning. Many positions are filled without being advertised, so consider contacting an employer even if they do not currently have any vacancies.
In professions with frequent customer contact, you can also visit the workplace in person with an up-to-date CV and a short cover letter.
CV and application
A strong CV and application can improve your chances of finding work in Denmark. Tailor your application to the position, explain why you are interested in the job and keep your CV clear and easy to read.
Check the employment conditions
The Danish and Swedish labour markets are similar in many ways, but there are also important differences.
Collective agreements are less common in Denmark than in Sweden. Your employment conditions may therefore be agreed individually between you and your employer.
Work permits
The rules for living and working in Denmark depend on your citizenship.
If you are a Nordic citizen, you are free to move to Denmark to live and work.
If you are a citizen of another EU/EEA country, you can stay in Denmark for up to 6 months while looking for work.
If you are a citizen of a country outside the EU/EEA, your right to a residence permit and work permit depends on a number of factors.
Read about residence and work permits in Denmark at newtodenmark.dk
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Opera singer Klara Ek has the entire Öresund region as her workplace
Klara Ek is a freelance opera singer, living in Copenhagen and with experience of working both in Sweden and Denmark.
New brochure - Work as a cultural worker in Denmark
In our new brochure, we have collected information relevant to cultural workers who often travel to several countries for different short assignments. If you travel often on assignments between Sweden and Denmark, it is not always clear in what country you are supposed to pay taxes, have social insurance or a-kassa, or where you earn your pension.
