Tips when you are looking for work in the cultural sector in Denmark
Are you keen to explore the job opportunities on the other side of the Sound? The way to apply for jobs in Denmark is not very different from what it’s like in Sweden. We’ve put together a few tips below that can be useful to bear in mind.
This information is for EU-citizens only
Be proactive
Competition for jobs in the cultural sector is intense, and opportunities often need to be created rather than found. Employment is becoming less common while freelance work is increasing, so find out what is required to work as a freelancer in your field. Build a broad professional network and don’t hesitate to reach out directly to potential employers.
Search widely
Many companies and organisations in the cultural sector post job openings directly on their websites. Make it a habit to visit these sites regularly, follow them on social media, and consider sending an open application even if no vacancies are advertised.
Tips on websites in the cultural sector that can be worth visiting:
jobscenen.dk -- vacancies in the field of culture
dmf.dk- Danish Musicians’ Union
At our information center in Malmö you can also meet employment consultants who can offer you guidance on the Danish labour market.
Apply proactively
A common approach in Denmark is to send an unsolicited job application — or uopfordret ansøgning. Many positions are filled without ever being advertised. If there’s a workplace or role you’ve always dreamed of, it’s worth sending an application even when no vacancies are posted. In professions with frequent customer contact, you can even drop by in person with an updated CV and a short introduction letter in hand.
Tips for your CV
There’s plenty of advice available on how to write an effective job application and CV. The general rules are simple: explain why you want the specific job, keep your text concise, and include a clear, detailed CV. Danish websites such as Jobindex.dk offer useful guidance on career choices and application writing. You can also get personal advice and support for your job search at Øresunddirekt’s Information Center.
Examine the conditions of employment
The Danish and Swedish labour markets do differ somewhat, but it can be difficult to appreciate how different they are. It’s important to bear in mind that there are fewer workplaces with collective bargaining agreements in Denmark, instead it’s often the case that an individual agreement is negotiated between you and your prospective employer.
More information regarding conditions of employment
Work permits
If you come from a Nordic country, you are free to travel to Denmark to live or work. If you are a citizen of another EU/EEA country, you are free to remain in Denmark for six months to look for work. If you are a citizen of a country outside the EU/EEA, there are several factors that determine whether you are entitled to a residence permit and work permit in Denmark.
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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.
