Can my employer dismiss me in Denmark?
Yes — but there is a notice period, and after 1 year of employment there must be a fair reason. For salaried employees the employer's notice rises with seniority: 1 month up to 6 months, 3 months up to 3 years, 4 months up to 6 years, 5 months up to 9 years and 6 months beyond. You yourself usually have 1 month's notice to the end of a month. After 1 year of employment a dismissal requires a fair reason — either in the company's circumstances, such as cutbacks, or in your own, such as poor performance after a warning. Pregnant employees and those on parental leave have special protection. Gross misconduct can mean summary dismissal without notice.
📋 The rules
- The employer's notice: 1 to 6 months by seniority
- Up to 6 months: 1 month · up to 3 years: 3 months
- Up to 6 years: 4 months · over 9 years: 6 months
- You yourself usually have 1 month's notice
- After 1 year a fair reason is required
🔓 Exceptions
- Non-salaried staff follow their agreement or contract, often with shorter notice
- Pregnant, on-leave and union-active employees have special protection from dismissal
- Gross misconduct can mean summary dismissal without notice
⚠️ Penalties & fines
An unfair dismissal can trigger compensation of up to about 6 months' salary, set by a court or arbitration.
📎 Official sources
❓ Frequently asked
Can my employer dismiss me?
Yes, but with notice, and after 1 year of employment a dismissal requires a fair reason.
How long is the notice period?
For salaried employees the employer's notice rises with seniority from 1 month up to 6 months.
What is my own notice?
You usually have 1 month's notice to the end of a month, unless otherwise agreed.
What is a fair reason?
A reason in the company's circumstances, such as cutbacks, or in your own, such as poor performance after a warning.
What is the penalty for an unfair dismissal?
Compensation of up to about 6 months' salary, set by a court or arbitration.
🔎 Common searches
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