Denmark, the world’s second happiest country once again

For expatriates and newcomers, understanding the underlying factors contributing to this national happiness can provide valuable insights into integrating smoothly into Danish society.

A robust social welfare system

One of the key reasons Denmark consistently ranks among the happiest countries in the world is its comprehensive social welfare system. The system is built on principles of equality and social security, and ensures that all residents, regardless of income level, have access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and financial support during unemployment or illness.

Denmark’s healthcare system is tax-funded, meaning that most medical services are free at the point of use. General practitioners (GPs) serve as the first point of contact, and referrals to specialists or hospital treatment are covered under the public system. This removes a major financial burden from individuals and families, allowing people to focus on their well-being without the stress of costly medical bills.

For expats moving to Denmark, registering with the national healthcare system and receiving a sundhedskort, or health card, should be a top priority. With this health card, they gain access to the country’s extensive healthcare network, which ensures that they receive the same quality of care as Danish citizens.

Another pillar of the welfare state is its strong emphasis on education. Public schools are free, and even higher education comes with minimal costs compared to other countries. More importantly, students in Denmark can receive a monthly state grant (SU, or statens uddannelsesstøtte) to support their studies. This reduces financial pressure and allows them to focus on academic and personal development.

This means high-quality schooling options for families moving to Denmark with children and no need for private education. It also means that higher education remains accessible.

 

The Danish welfare model also provides financial assistance in times of need. Whether it’s unemployment benefits (dagpenge), parental leave support, or housing benefits, these systems ensure that people can maintain a decent quality of life even during uncertain times. For those new to Denmark, understanding these benefits is important, especially when transitioning into the job market. Many expats choose to join an a-kasse (unemployment insurance fund) to secure financial support if they experience job loss, offering peace of mind in an unfamiliar job market.

An emphasis on work-life balance

Denmark is well known for its strong work-life balance, which is another factor that significantly contributes to its high happiness ranking. Unlike many other countries where long working hours are often seen as a sign of dedication, this is not the case in Denmark. Danes value efficiency over overtime and prioritize personal time – an approach that contributes to a healthier work culture, reduces stress, and fosters a better quality of life.

In Denmark, the standard workweek is 37 hours, and many companies offer flexible working arrangements. It’s common for employees to leave the office by 4:00 PM, ensuring they have ample time for family, leisure, and personal activities. Remote work options are also widely accepted, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic, which gives employees more control over their schedules.

Denmark’s family-friendly policies likewise play a crucial role in maintaining work-life balance. Parents receive up to 52 weeks of paid parental leave, with both mothers and fathers encouraged to take time off. Additionally, childcare is heavily subsidized, which allows parents to return to work without financial strain.

Finally, Danes take rest seriously. Employees are entitled to five weeks of paid vacation per year, and many take extended time off during the summer. In addition to national holidays, many workplaces also offer extra days off, ensuring employees have time to recharge.

For foreigners and newcomers, the Danish system can be both reassuring and somewhat complex to navigate, but these very factors contribute to the overall sense of happiness and security that Denmark is known for. While it may take time to fully understand and integrate into the social model, the benefits create a foundation for a fulfilling life in Denmark.