Understand your employment contract
An employment contract is your legal safety net as an employee. It outlines your working conditions in black and white – and it’s mandatory if you work more than eight hours a week for over one month.
This applies to both public and private sector jobs.
When are you entitled to an employment contract?
You have the right to receive your key terms of employment in writing no later than 7 days after your first day at work. The full contract must be provided within one month of your employment start date.The key terms typically include who the contract is between, where the work will take place, your job title or position, your salary, the start date, working hours, and whether there is a trial period or variable working hours.
It’s important that you fully understand your terms before signing the contract. That’s why we recommend always receiving the full agreement before accepting a job offer or resigning from your current position.
What must be included in your employment contract?
According to Danish law (Ansættelsesbevisloven), your employment contract must include the following:
- Names and addresses of both you and your employer
- Your place of work (the worksite address)
- Job title and a short description of your role
- Start date of your employment
- Duration, if the position is temporary
- Your rights to vacation and any additional paid days off
- Terms for termination and notice period
- Salary, bonuses, and payment schedule
- Your daily or weekly working hours
- Any variable working hours
- Rules on paid leavs
- Whether you’re covered by a collective agreement or other arrangements
For several of the terms – such as notice periods, paid leave, salary, and working hours – the contract may simply refer to applicable legislation, a collective agreement, or internal company policies.
Want to be sure your employment contract is correct?
Send your contract to us at jura@pharmadanmark.dk before you sign.
We’ll review it and advise you on what to watch out for.