The pension system in Denmark is a universal one, wherein it covers the entire population. Anyone who lives in Denmark, be it a Danish person or a foreigner, is entitled to a pension at retirement as it is not dependent on the contributions made to the pension scheme.
The pension age in the country is 65 years but by 2022, this age will gradually be increased to 67 years and by 2030, the pension age will increase to 68 years. This increase in pension age is due to high life expectancy and the fact that most people continue working even after attaining the age of pension.
Public Pensions in Denmark
The public pension system in Denmark comprises of two types. The first type is the universal pension that is paid to people when they reach the age of pension. This pension is paid regardless of the person’s contribution as long as the person meets the qualifying criteria.
To receive the universal pension, a person should have resided in Denmark from the ages of 15 to 65, for a period of 40 years. In case a person has lived for less than 40 years in the country, the pension amount is proportionately reduced.
The second type of pension in Denmark is the social disability pension and is provided to a person based on social and medical factors. If a person cannot work to their full capacity due to social and/or health reasons, they receive at least 40% of the average income and also have access to healthcare and housing benefits.
Occupational Pension
This type of pension covers nearly 90% of the existing workforce in the country and is dependent on the collective bargaining agreement that the company signs with the employees. Usually, this pension is sector-wise though many companies in Denmark also have a company-wide pension scheme; however, the latter is not very popular.
In this pension, the company and the employer contribute to the pension scheme, with employees contributing approximately 9% to 17% of their salary, amounting to one-third of the total contribution. The balance two-thirds is contributed by the employer.
Personal Pension in Denmark
Pension companies in Denmark float personal pension schemes. These are private saving schemes and participating in them is voluntary. Here, the entire contribution is funded by the person and agreement between the pension company and the person determines how much benefit they will receive on attaining the age of pension.
The pension can be taken as a life annuity, phased withdrawal, or lump sum. Part of the pension is exempted from tax.
Labor Market Supplementary Pension (ATP)
The ATP is the biggest supplementary pension scheme in Denmark and the payout is dependent on the contribution made by the person. When a person works for more years and they delay their retirement, they will receive more pension payout at the time of retirement.
Anyone who works for more than nine hours a week and is aged between 16 and 65 has to contribute to this pension scheme. In addition, employers also make a contribution, which is two-thirds of the amount.
How Much is the State Pension in Denmark?
In case you are wondering how much is the state pension in Denmark, you will be surprised to learn that the amount is dependent on the number of years you worked in the country, the contributions you have made to the pension, and the additional income you have.
The state pension in Denmark comprises of a basic amount and supplementary amount. The average pension in Denmark (basic amount) is approximately DKK6,237 per month. This translates to DKK74,844 per annum and it is roughly about 18% of the average earned income that a person draws. It is prudent to remember that if the earned income is more than DKK322,500 per year, the basic pension is reduced.
On the other hand, the average pension supplement for a single pensioner is about DKK6,728 per month, amounting to DKK80,736 annually. However, this amount is usually less as it takes into account the personal income, occupational pension, public pension, and ATP.
The full pension supplement is reduced by 30.9% if a person’s earned income is more than DKK71,200 per annum. In case the person lives with a partner or spouse who receives a pension then the amount of the full pension supplement is reduced by 16% if the total income of the couple is more than DKK142,800.
How to Claim Pension in Denmark
Pension is not automatically paid in Denmark. You have to apply for it once you reach the eligible age to receive a pension. It is common for people to apply for pension six months prior to reaching retirement age.
You can have to apply on the Udbetaling Danmark website for the pension. You can fill out the form and submit it online. You will be informed when your form is accepted and the date of the disbursement of pension.
You can also apply for a pension in Denmark as a foreigner. In case you have lived or worked for a minimum of three years in Denmark between the ages of 15 and 65, you can apply for a pension on reaching retirement age.
Pension in Denmark for foreigners is dependent on the number of years the person has worked in the country. You are entitled to full pension only if you have worked for 40 years in Denmark. If the number of working years is less, the pension will be proportionately reduced.
In Conclusion
The pension system in Denmark is one of the best in the world. The Udbetaling Danmark periodically adjusts the pension amount so that a person receives the correct amount for the previous year. This ensures that pensioners always get the right amount each year. Of course, at times, pensioners receive too much and they have to pay it back. However, a person pays back only if they receive over DKK249 for the previous year. Otherwise, it is not necessary to pay back.
Now you know everything about pension in Denmark. What do you think about this pension system?
Hello,
What percentage, if any is contributed to a state pension scheme provision in % of salary or fixed amount?
Thanks,
Hi Alex,
On most contracts in the private sector, the payment corresponds to 12 percent of your salary.
Here, your employer pays 2/3, and you yourself 1/3.
In the public sector, the pension contribution rate is typically higher.
Is the pension deduction taken from your tax? I work internationally but pay tax in Denmark. Will I be able to claim pension for the years I have paid tax?
I am an official resident in Denmark, as per the government advice.
Hi Thomas,
Thank you for your comment.
I would recommend that you contact your employer and ask if they pay into retirement, which they should do.
Hi, My name is Rory Bennett and I have been on pension in Denmark for 2 years now. I was told that the pension laws would change this year by Ældre Sagen. In the 2 years I received my pension I also worked full time. My pension was reduced by 4000kr per month which I knew beforehand. I was told by Ældre Sagen that I would be able to work full-time and collect my pension without a reduction in my pension. This was discussed for 2 years and is ready to be signed into law. Was I given the correct information by Ældre Sagen or is this just talk ? Thank you, Rory Bennett
Hi Rory,
Regarding your inquiry about working full-time while receiving a pension in Denmark, the rules as of 2023 indicate that your pension benefits may be reduced if your income from personal employment exceeds a certain limit. Specifically, you can earn up to DKK 25,400 per year before tax without impacting your pension benefits. Earnings beyond this threshold can result in a reduction of your pension by 64% of the excess amount.
It’s important to note that these regulations are subject to change, and staying informed about any new reforms or legislative updates is advisable.
Best regards,
Kristian Ole Rørbye
Hi Kristian,
I found your guide helpful.
I would like to clarify the following:
You wrote:
“Pension in Denmark for foreigners is dependent on the number of years the person has worked in the country.” Is this correct? Is it not how many years resident in the country?
Hey Philip!
I’m glad you found the guide helpful! Let’s clear up your question about pensions in Denmark.
You’re right to seek clarification. The pension in Denmark is indeed influenced by the number of years you’ve lived there, not just by the years you’ve worked. To be eligible for the full Danish state pension (folkepension), you need to have lived in Denmark for a minimum of 40 years from the age of 15 to the pension age. If you’ve lived in Denmark for fewer years, the pension amount is reduced proportionally.
So, it’s about residency, not just employment. Thanks for pointing that out, and I hope this clears things up!
If you have more questions or need further information, feel free to ask.