FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Recruitment & Process

What’s the timeframe of the whole process?

Depending on your availability and other external factors (such as processes at the hospitals or holidays), the recruitment process usually takes 3–5 months, excluding the 5-month online language course. This includes profile presentation, interviews, and a personal visit to Denmark before signing a letter of intent.

Do I have to pay Medicolink anything?

No. The recruitment process, language course, and personal visits are fully financed by the Danish hospital or dental clinic. You only invest your time and commitment.

How much does the personal visit cost?

If you are a specialist, the hospital covers all costs for you and your spouse, including flights and accommodation. In case you are a dentist, the clinic usually covers 50% of the costs.

Who will help me with the relocation and the authorization? How much time does it take?

Our Integration Team will guide you through the whole process. The exact timeline depends on how quickly you can collect the necessary documents, which can vary by country. Once everything is in place, the official authorization process usually takes up to 3 months, but in our experience, it often moves along more quickly in reality.

Do I have a trial period?

No, doctors receive a full permanent contract from day one with no trial period. The resignation period is 3 months for doctors and 6 months for the hospital.

Language & Integration

Do I have to speak Danish?

You don’t need to speak Danish when you apply. However, Danish is essential for working in the healthcare sector and for settling into daily life in Denmark. That is why learning the language is a key part of your relocation process. Depending on your future employer you will either join our intensive online language course designed specifically for medical professionals, or take part in on-site lessons provided by the hospital. Your recruiter will guide you through all the details and help you understand which course applies to your specific offer.

Why do I have to learn Danish if they speak English well?

Learning Danish is essential because hospitals require at least a B2 level, and the 5-month course is a valuable investment in your career. Beyond meeting professional requirements, speaking Danish massively helps with integration – it makes everyday life easier, strengthens cultural understanding, and helps you build meaningful connections in your new environment. The 1,000 EUR monthly support helps cover this period, but it’s not a salary replacement. We can also connect you with past candidates to share their experiences.

What do I need for the language course?

The course is fully online, so no relocation is needed. You just need solid English skills (B2 level), as it’s the bridge language. We provide all materials, and you’ll receive up to €1,000 per month in financial support during the 5-month course. Please note that the program is intensive and will be your full-time commitment during these months.

What’s the duration of the language course?

The language course lasts 5 months, plus 3-4 weeks of medical language teaching but can be extended based on your progress and needs.

How many classes are in the course?

You’ll have online language lessons five times a week, Monday to Friday, usually in the mornings to early afternoons.

Will we have one-on-one or group sessions?

Our language courses are held in small groups of 2-6 learners for effective learning. One-on-one sessions can be arranged if extra support is needed.

What happens if I don’t pass the language course?

We closely monitor your progress throughout the course, and our language teachers quickly identify if you’re falling behind – long before it impacts your success. This allows us to provide extra support and personalized guidance to keep you on track. In the rare case you don’t pass the midway or final test, you’ll  receive extra support from us, and have the chance to retake the failed part alongside your professional exam.

Can I continue learning Danish after starting work in Denmark?

Yes, further learning of Danish is mandatory for specialists, and optional for dentists. You can join free Danish courses like “Danish for the Labour Market”, a beginner’s program with up to 250 hours of tuition. After completing it, you will advance to higher-level courses ending with a state exam, tailored to your skill level.

How fast will I be able to integrate into Danish society as a foreigner? 

Danes are generally very tolerant and welcoming to newcomers, making integration smoother than many expect. As a foreign medical professional, you’ll find that people trust and respect your skills regardless of your background. Social life often centers around clubs, associations, and local communities, providing plenty of opportunities to meet new people and build meaningful connections – helping you feel at home sooner.Válasz

Work & Career

Are salaries for Danish doctors similar to those for foreign doctors?

Yes, salaries for all doctors in Denmark – Danish and foreign – are set by the Collective Agreement and are equal. Specialists earn a guaranteed minimum gross annual salary of around 120 000 EUR, including pension and extra shift benefits.

What are the tax rates in Denmark?

In Denmark, income tax typically ranges from 39% to 43%, including health and social contributions. Although taxes are higher than in many European countries, they fund excellent public services like free healthcare, education, and social security, contributing to a high quality of life.

How are holidays arranged in Denmark?

Doctors in Denmark are entitled to 6 weeks of paid holiday annually. Employees earn 2.08 holiday days per month worked.

How does the “37-hour a week” work schedule function?

In Denmark, doctors have a balanced 37-hour average workweek calculated over a 14-week period. This means you won’t necessarily work exactly 37 hours each week, but your total hours over 14 weeks should average out to 37 hours per week.

What kind of career progression can foreign doctors expect in Denmark?

There are good opportunities to advance once you’re confident in Danish. Most start as “Afdelingslæge” (specialist) and can progress to “Overlæge” (consultant) after gaining about five years of experience post-residency. Career growth depends on your skills and motivation – like Antonio, one of our psychiatrists, who advanced to a clinical lecturer at a university hospital.

Family & Life in Denmark

Where will I live in Denmark? Flat or house with a garden?

It depends on your preference and budget – both apartments and houses with gardens are available in most towns where we have positions.

What is the weather like? Is it always raining?

Denmark has a mild climate with four distinct seasons, offering something special year-round. Summers are bright and pleasant with average temperatures around 20°C, perfect for outdoor activities, while winters are cool and cozy without being too harsh. It doesn’t rain all the time, but the weather can change quickly – so having a jacket and umbrella handy means you’re always ready to enjoy the day!

What social services are available for me and my family in Denmark? Do I have to pay or are they free?

As an EU citizen working in Denmark, you and your family have the same rights as Danish nationals to social benefits, including free healthcare and education. These services are covered by EU laws ensuring equal treatment and freedom of movement.

What healthcare services can I access in Denmark?

Every resident in Denmark has access to comprehensive healthcare, including GP and specialist treatments (with referral), certain dental care, physiotherapy, chiropractic services, psychotherapy, prescription medicines, and maternity care. This ensures quality healthcare for you and your family.

What does “spouse employment assistance” mean? Will you guarantee a job for my spouse?

While Medicolink arranges positions for physicians, dentists, and nurses, we can’t guarantee jobs for spouses. That said, we do our best to support your spouse’s job search. Many hospitals and local job centers offer help as well. Job hunting usually starts during the Danish language course in Denmark, as speaking Danish is often essential. This is why we provide the opportunity for spouses of professionals studying with us to take part in our intensive online language course – free of charge!

Can my children start Danish school or kindergarten without speaking Danish?

Yes, schools offer reception classes that combine language learning with regular lessons, helping children transition to regular classes in 8–9 months. Kindergarten and nursery kids usually pick up Danish quickly without special classes.

What is the education like in Denmark for children?

Danish children grow up with a strong focus on independence, trust, and emotional well-being. In kindergartens, learning happens through play, nature, and social interaction – not structured lessons. At school, the emphasis is on practical knowledge, collaboration, and project work rather than traditional frontal teaching. Children are encouraged to think critically, express opinions, and learn by doing. The goal is to raise confident, well-rounded individuals in a stress-free, supportive environment.