Ansættelse

Ansættelse is the Danish term for the employment relationship between an employer and an employee, whereby the employee performs work in exchange for remuneration and is subject to the employer’s direction within agreed terms. The concept covers both permanent and temporary positions and can be formalized by an employment contract (ansættelseskontrakt) or governed by collective agreements and company policies.

Common forms include fastansættelse (permanent employment), midlertidig ansættelse (temporary), vik aransættelse (temporary fill-in), and prøvetidsansættelse (probationary). A contract typically sets out the start date, job title and duties, working hours, salary, and notice provisions. In practice, written contracts are common and advisable, though terms may also be established in oral agreements or through collective agreements.

Key rights and duties include the employee’s obligation to perform work and the employer’s obligation to pay wages and provide a safe working environment. Danish law also provides protections against discrimination and grants rights to paid holidays under Ferieloven, along with related rights found in legislation and, for white-collar employees, in Funktionærloven. Many terms are shaped by collective agreements and company policies.

Ending an ansættelse can occur through resignation, mutual agreement, or dismissal. Notice periods (opsigelsesvarsler) generally apply to both sides and are often defined in the contract, in applicable collective agreements, or by statute. Termination may be for cause or for business reasons, and severance terms vary accordingly.