In a significant policy shift aimed at enhancing migration control and safeguarding the integrity of its education system, Denmark has officially ended work and post-study job search rights for foreign students enrolled in non-state-approved higher education programmes. The new regulations, which took effect on May 2, 2025, also restrict the ability of these students to bring accompanying family members into the country.
The move, announced by the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI) and reported by News, is part of Denmark’s broader strategy to ensure that residence permits are granted solely to foreign nationals whose primary and genuine purpose is education. According to Danish authorities, the aim is to prevent misuse of student residence permits for labor exploitation or irregular migration.
Key Changes Introduced as of May 2, 2025
Under the revised immigration rules:
Foreign students enrolled in non-state-recognised higher education programmes are no longer eligible for limited work permits during their studies.
These students will also be denied the right to remain in Denmark for six months after graduation to search for a job—a benefit that was previously available.
Accompanying family members (spouses or children) of affected students are no longer permitted to join them in Denmark.
These changes apply exclusively to third-country nationals—those coming from outside the European Union and European Economic Area.
Grandfather Clause Protects Existing Students
In an important clarification, SIRI confirmed that students who submitted their applications before May 2, 2025, will not be affected by the new restrictions. This means that:
Students already enrolled in a non-approved programme who applied for or received a residence permit prior to May 2 will retain their work rights.
They will still be eligible for a six-month job search stay following the completion of their studies.
These students will also retain the right to be accompanied by family members.
Furthermore, permit extensions for these individuals will be considered under the old rules.
This provision is designed to ensure fairness and prevent retroactive policy enforcement for students who made educational and financial commitments under the previous legal framework.
Background: Denmark's Migration and Education Reforms
Denmark is home to a growing number of international students, many of whom pursue degree programmes in both public and private institutions. However, in recent years, concerns have been raised regarding the misuse of study permits by certain groups of students, especially those enrolled in non-approved institutions.
Reports have highlighted that some foreign students, particularly from countries such as Nepal, have been exploited in low-wage and irregular employment in Denmark. In some instances, these students were allegedly using their residence permits for purposes other than education, including overstaying in the Schengen Area or working under illegal conditions.
In response to such concerns, the Danish government has taken steps to tighten controls, ensure only legitimate educational programmes qualify for immigration benefits, and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
Why These Changes Matter
This policy change sends a strong signal that Denmark is committed to:
Prioritising high-quality, state-approved education for foreign students.
Preventing abuse of immigration channels through loosely regulated academic programmes.
Upholding labor standards and preventing the exploitation of international students.
Ensuring that international study pathways lead to meaningful educational and career outcomes, not informal labor markets.
While the decision may create challenges for some prospective students, especially those considering alternative education routes or private institutions not accredited by the state, it is also intended to promote transparency and accountability in Denmark’s international education sector.
Impact on Prospective Students
Students planning to study in Denmark are now strongly advised to:
Verify whether their chosen programme is state-approved and recognised by Danish authorities.
Ensure they meet the new eligibility criteria before applying for a student visa or residence permit.
Be aware that attending a non-approved institution will no longer provide access to work permits, post-study stay, or family reunification rights.
The Danish government is expected to maintain a regularly updated list of approved higher education programmes. Prospective international students should consult the official SIRI website or reach out to their chosen institution to confirm the programme’s status.
A Step Toward Responsible International Education
While the policy revision may be seen as restrictive, it reflects a growing trend across Europe toward responsible international student mobility—where the goals of education, economic contribution, and migration integrity are balanced.
Denmark continues to welcome international students into its education system, particularly those committed to academic excellence and enrolled in government-recognised programmes. However, the latest reform makes it clear that study pathways must not be used as a backdoor to low-skilled employment or to bypass normal immigration channels.
