The rule: no statutory rate, set by collective agreement
Denmark has no statutory overtime pay rate. The law does not require a fixed overtime premium; instead, overtime compensation is almost always governed by collective agreements (overenskomster), which cover roughly 73% of the private-sector workforce. A common collective-agreement pattern is +50% for the first three overtime hours and +100% thereafter, often with the option of time off in lieu. The standard week in most sectors is 37 hours.
What does apply by law
| Statutory overtime rate | None — set by agreement/contract |
| Typical collective-agreement rate | +50% then +100% |
| Maximum average week (EU rule) | 48 hours over 4 months |
Worked example
Because there is no statutory rate, enter the multiplier from your collective agreement or contract in the calculator above. For example, at kr 200/hour and a +50% agreement, two overtime hours = 2 × 200 × 1.5 = kr 600.
What the law does set
The Working Hours Act implements the EU rule that average working time, including overtime, must not exceed 48 hours a week over a four-month reference period. Disputes about agreed overtime are handled through the collective-agreement system and the labour courts, not a public wage authority.
- Is there a statutory overtime rate in Denmark?
- No — overtime pay is set by collective agreements or your individual contract.
- What is a typical rate?
- Often +50% for the first hours and +100% after, but it varies by agreement.
- Is there a maximum working week?
- Yes — an average of 48 hours including overtime, over four months.
- What rate should I put in the calculator?
- The one from your own collective agreement or contract.