Resignation and Termination

Whether you're considering a resignation or facing a termination, it's crucial to understand your legal rights and notice period. We guide you through the rules and help secure your terms of departure.

If you are resigning from your job

Understand your notice period
If you’re covered by the Danish Salaried Employees Act (funktionærloven), your notice period is typically the current month + one month, after your probation period ends.
Example: If you resign in February, your last day will be March 31.

During the probation period
Within the first three months, your contract may include a shorter notice period – for example, one day or 14 days. The notice must be able to take effect during the probation period to be valid.

Extended notice agreements
Some contracts contain mutually extended notice periods. Check your contract and reach out if you're unsure – we’re here to help.

How to resign properly
A resignation must be in writing. Send it by email with delivery confirmation to ensure documentation. You can also hand it in physically – just make sure to get proof of timely delivery.

Starting a new Job?
Don’t resign until you’ve received a signed employment contract from your new employer. A verbal or informal offer isn't enough unless all terms are clearly specified in writing.

If you have been terminated

Notice period based onseniority
For salaried employees, the Danish Salaried Employees Act applies:

 

Senority

Notice Period

Up to 5 months

1 month

6 months – 2 years and 9 months

3 months

2 years and 9 months – 5 years and 8 months

4 months

5 years and 8 months – 8 years and 7 months

5 months

Over 8 years and 7 months

6 months

Termination during probation
If a probation period is agreed upon, your employer can terminate you with 14 days' notice during the first three months.

You’re entitled to a reason
You can always request a written explanation for your termination. We’re happy to assess whether the reason is legally valid – and whether you may be entitled to compensation.

Unlawful dismissal?
A termination must never be based on discriminatory factors such as pregnancy, disability, or age.

Termination agreement
Some dismissals end with a termination agreement outlining your departure terms—such as release from duties, severance, and vacation pay.

Woman carrying a box
Are you required to work?

During the notice period

Your employer decides whether you should attend work. You may be:

  • Released from duties – no need to attend work

  • Suspended – you must be available but don’t necessarily attend the workplace

  • Required to attend – you work as normal during the notice period

Seniority-based severance pay
You are entitled to severance compensation if you have been employed for:

  • More than 12 years: 1 month’s salary

  • More than 17 years: 3 months’ salary

Handshake
Always let us review the agreement before you sign

Immediate dismissal

You can only be terminated without notice (dismissed) in cases of gross misconduct. This includes:

  • Serious breach of loyalty
  • Theft
  • Violence or threats
  • Unjustified absence

If you’ve been dismissed, contact us immediately.

Need help?

Questions about your resignation or termination?

You can count on our legal team

Need Legal Assistance

Our legal team is here to help.

If you have questions or need support, don’t hesitate to contact our legal advisors.

Call us at +45 3946 3605
Email us at jura@pharmadanmark.dk