160 | Why So Many Internationals Leave Denmark (Even After Landing the Dream Job)

About this episode

This episode discusses the challenges faced by internationals in Denmark regarding job retention and career progression.

Denmark says it needs international talent. So why do so many internationals still feel uncertain about building a future here? In this episode of What Are You Doing in Denmark , Derek talks with Dan Rosenberg from Copenhagen Capacity about the reality behind working and staying in Denmark as an international. They discuss why many internationals feel “professionally stuck” in Denmark and the hidden career challenges foreigners face after getting hired that make changing jobs can feel risky - especially when your residency depends on employment. Along the way they discuss how this squares with Denmark’s growing dependence on non-EU workers and why political rhetoric often doesn’t match economic reality. It's not all doom and gloom, Dan highlights some Danish municipalities that are actually doing international retention well while explaining why welcoming internationals takes more than just work permits. The conversation also explores the future of international talent in Denmark, whether Denmark is truly competing globally for skilled workers, and what needs to change for internationals to feel wanted and not just needed. Whether you’re newly arrived, job hunting, considering…

People in this episode

Host: Derek Hartman

Guest: Dan Rosenberg

Topics covered

• international talent
• career challenges
• job market
• residency
• political rhetoric
• retention strategies

Keywords

• Denmark
• internationals
• career challenges
• residency
• job market
• Copenhagen Capacity
• political rhetoric

Sponsors

Kintobe

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Copenhagen Capacity

Places: Denmark

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• 157 | Why Does Everyone Hate Randers? Explaining Denmark's Most-Mocked City · May 5, 2026 · 30 min
• 156 | “You’re Welcome… But You Don’t Belong” Life in Denmark as an International · April 28, 2026 · 45 min